At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations in fraud and financial crime, shaping strategy and driving performance.
- Company: Join a dynamic bank focused on innovation and customer protection.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive salary, and opportunities for international work.
- Other info: Diverse workplace with a commitment to inclusion and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a senior role while embracing AI and automation.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in financial services with expertise in fraud operations.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 € per year.
We’re building a Fraud and Financial Crime Tribe focused on protecting the bank and our customers across the full customer lifecycle. This is a senior leadership role leading the Operations function across Fraud Ops and Fin Crime Ops, overseeing teams across London, Manchester and an outsourced operation in South Africa. You’ll shape the future operating model for the function, influencing how technology, automation and organisational design evolve as the business scales. You’ll work closely with Product, Engineering, Risk, Compliance, Fraud Strategy and the MLRO, acting as a senior voice in decisions with broad operational, customer and regulatory impact.
Key Responsibilities
- Set the strategic direction for Fraud Ops and FinCrime Ops, shaping structure, standards and operating models.
- Own organisational design, workforce planning and operational budget across the function.
- Lead operational performance, using MI and insight to drive accountability and improvement.
- Partner with Product and Engineering teams to shape automation strategy and operational processes.
- Drive adoption of AI and automation across the function.
- Represent Operations in senior governance, regulatory and audit discussions where required.
- Ensure strong governance, controls and regulatory compliance across the function.
- Build leadership capability, succession plans and long‑term talent pipelines across Operations.
About You
- Experienced senior operational leader with a strong track record managing large‑scale teams within regulated financial services or fintech.
- Deep expertise across fraud and financial crime operations, including governance, controls and customer outcomes.
- Proven experience leading operational transformation across technology, processes and operating models.
- Commercially minded with experience managing budgets, operational investment and third‑party relationships.
- Excited by AI and automation, with a clear view on how technology can reshape operational functions responsibly.
- Strong cross‑functional leader who influences effectively across Product, Engineering, Risk and Compliance.
- Strategic, data‑driven and highly pragmatic, with strong operational judgement.
- Strong people leader who develops high‑performing teams and future leadership capability.
Bonus (Optional)
- Experience within digital banking or fast‑growth fintech environments.
- Knowledge of APP fraud, SAR obligations, Consumer Duty and vulnerable customer handling.
- Experience managing outsourced operational teams.
- Exposure to regulatory engagement with the FCA, auditors or industry bodies.
- Familiarity with modern fraud tooling and operational analytics platforms.
Location & Working Hours
This hybrid role requires you to come to our London office 2‑3 days a week. You’ll also have the option of working from abroad for up to 120 days a year, subject to having the right to work in the country of choice.
Diversity & Inclusion Statement
Zopa is proud to offer a workplace free from discrimination. Diversity of experience, perspectives and backgrounds leads to better products for our customers and a unique company culture for our people. We are made up of nearly 50 nationalities and have a DE&I forum dedicated to making a difference. Our approach to DE&I is reflected in our hiring process, so please let us know if you require any reasonable adjustments.
Associate Director, Fraud & Financial Crime Operations in London employer: Zopa Bank
At Zopa, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration. As an Associate Director in our Fraud & Financial Crime Operations, you'll benefit from a supportive environment that prioritises employee growth through leadership development and strategic influence across teams. With the flexibility of hybrid working and opportunities to work abroad, alongside our commitment to diversity and inclusion, Zopa is dedicated to creating a meaningful and rewarding workplace for all employees.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director, Fraud & Financial Crime Operations in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who work in fraud and financial crime. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s recent projects and challenges in fraud operations. This shows you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their goals right from the start.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your enthusiasm for the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Check out our website for the latest job openings. We’re always on the lookout for talented individuals like you to join our Fraud and Financial Crime Tribe. Apply directly through us for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director, Fraud & Financial Crime Operations in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Associate Director, Fraud & Financial Crime Operations. Highlight your experience in managing large-scale teams and any specific achievements in fraud and financial crime operations. We want to see how you can shape our future!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're excited about this role and how your background aligns with our mission at StudySmarter. Don’t forget to mention your thoughts on AI and automation in operational functions – we love that stuff!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a senior operational leader, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to build high-performing teams. Share examples of how you've developed talent pipelines and led operational transformations. We’re all about strong people leaders here at StudySmarter!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a seamless application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zopa Bank
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid understanding of fraud and financial crime operations. Brush up on the latest trends, technologies, and regulations in the industry. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just interested but also knowledgeable.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As this role is senior, be prepared to discuss your experience in leading large teams and driving operational transformation. Have specific examples ready that highlight your ability to influence cross-functional teams and manage budgets effectively.
✨Emphasise Your Strategic Thinking
This position requires a strategic mindset. Be ready to talk about how you've set the direction for previous teams or projects. Discuss how you’ve used data-driven insights to make decisions and improve operational performance.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios. Think about challenges you've faced in fraud operations and how you tackled them. This will demonstrate your operational judgement and ability to handle complex situations.