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- Tasks: Lead operations across various departments and drive growth in a high-growth fintech.
- Company: Join a purpose-driven fintech with a focus on innovation and inclusivity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, equity options, hybrid working, and generous annual leave.
- Why this job: Take ownership and influence the future of a rapidly scaling fintech company.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in financial services with strong leadership and operational experience.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team committed to equal opportunities and diversity.
The predicted salary is between 90000 - 120000 £ per year.
Zest4Talent is recruiting for a high-growth fintech seeking a Chief Operating Officer (COO) to work closely with the Founder & CEO and lead the business through its next phase of scale. While professional experience and qualifications are key for this role, make sure to check you have the preferable soft skills before applying if required. This is a senior, hands-on COO role with real ownership, influence, and equity upside.
The Role
- Own day-to-day operations across Credit Risk, Underwriting, Customer Service, Product, People, Finance Ops, and Regulatory
- Scale the lending operation and platform to support rapid loan book growth
- Drive execution, performance management, and continuous improvement
- Lead People & Culture, including hiring, leadership development, and people operations
- Oversee internal finance operations with the CFO and external providers
- Ensure compliance with FCA regulation, Consumer Duty, and GDPR
- Manage relationships with investors, regulators, and funding partners
Requirements
- 10+ years’ experience in financial services / fintech
- Previous COO, VP, or Head of Operations experience (or ready to step up)
- Proven experience scaling teams and operations in a high-growth or scale-up environment
- Strong leadership with a hands-on, delivery-focused approach
- Experience in regulated lending or consumer credit (desirable)
Package
- £90,000–£120,000 salary + equity
- Hybrid working – London office (min. 2 days per week)
- 40 days annual leave plus birthday off
- Senior role in a purpose-driven fintech
Managed by Zest4Talent, specialist recruitment agency. UK-based role. Right to work in the UK required.
Chief Operating Officer in Islington employer: Zest 4 Talent
Contact Detail:
Zest 4 Talent Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Operating Officer in Islington
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the fintech space and let them know you're on the lookout for a COO role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities that aren't advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your leadership stories. Think about times you've scaled operations or led teams through change. We want to hear how you’ve made an impact in previous roles!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your soft skills! As a COO, you'll need to lead with empathy and drive performance. Be ready to discuss how you fostered a positive culture and managed relationships with stakeholders in your past roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Operating Officer in Islington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the COO role. Highlight your experience in financial services and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Showcase Your Soft Skills: While your professional experience is crucial, don’t forget to showcase those soft skills! Leadership, communication, and adaptability are key for this role, so give us examples of how you've demonstrated these in your past roles.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about the fintech space and how you can contribute to our growth. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zest 4 Talent
✨Know Your Numbers
As a COO, you'll need to demonstrate your understanding of financial metrics and operational KPIs. Brush up on the key figures relevant to the fintech industry, such as loan book growth rates and customer acquisition costs. Be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive decisions in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership, so prepare examples that highlight your experience in scaling teams and driving performance. Think about specific instances where you’ve led a team through change or improved operations. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Understand Regulatory Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with FCA regulations, Consumer Duty, and GDPR compliance. Be prepared to discuss how you've navigated these areas in past roles. Showing that you can ensure compliance while driving growth will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Cultural Fit Matters
Zest4Talent is looking for someone who aligns with their purpose-driven ethos. Research the company culture and values, and think about how your own values align. Be ready to discuss how you would contribute to the People & Culture aspect of the role, especially in terms of hiring and leadership development.
