At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead operations, turn strategy into execution, and build scalable processes.
- Company: Disruptive tech startup revolutionising OTC trading markets.
- Benefits: Dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth and creativity.
- Other info: Fast-paced role ideal for those who thrive in ambiguity and love problem-solving.
- Why this job: Join us to innovate and make a real impact in a traditional industry.
- Qualifications: Resourceful, strategic thinker with strong operational skills.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
Zuma Labs is a disruptive technology startup building force multipliers for systemic industries. Our first two products, Venetian and Squawk, target the over-the-counter (OTC) trading markets. We work closely with our customers and count a large, publicly traded brokerage among our partners. Trading technology is an old industry… and we’re here to change that. Like many startups, we value creativity, entrepreneurship, and real passion for problem-solving. But what we’re really looking for are born-and-bred hackers, people with a healthy disrespect for the status quo and the drive to build something better.
Role Overview
We’re looking for a Head of Operations who thrives in ambiguity, moves fast, and isn’t afraid to roll up their sleeves. This is a highly hands-on leadership role for someone resourceful and execution obsessed. You’ll be responsible for turning strategy into execution across the company - building processes where needed, fixing what’s broken, and scaling what works. In the early days, that means wearing many hats: operator, recruiter, project manager, finance partner, systems builder, and sometimes firefighter. If you’re excited about building from zero to one (and one to ten), this role is for you.
What You’ll Do
- Company Execution & Operating Rhythm
- Translate company strategy into clear operating plans and measurable goals
- Establish KPIs, reporting cadence, and accountability systems
- Drive quarterly and annual planning processes
- Ensure cross-functional alignment and delivery
- Partner with leadership on hiring strategy and workforce planning
- Build recruiting processes and help close key hires
- Develop onboarding and performance management frameworks
- Strengthen culture, communication, and internal transparency
- Finance & Resource Allocation
- Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow planning
- Improve capital efficiency and vendor management
- Build financial visibility and decision-making frameworks
- Systems & Infrastructure
- Design scalable internal processes and tooling
- Identify operational bottlenecks and implement solutions
- Improve cross-team workflows and information flow
- Special Projects
- Lead high-impact, ambiguous initiatives from idea to execution
- Step in wherever needed - product ops, partnerships, compliance, customer ops, etc.
Who You Are
- Scrappy, resourceful, and highly execution-oriented
- Comfortable operating in fast-moving, ambiguous environments
- Strategic thinker who can also operate in the weeds
- Strong operator with sound business judgment
- Highly organised with exceptional follow-through
Head of Operations employer: Zuma Labs
Contact Detail:
Zuma Labs Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your problem-solving abilities and past successes. Use specific examples that demonstrate how you've tackled challenges head-on and made a real impact.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to roll up your sleeves! Startups love candidates who are hands-on and willing to dive into the nitty-gritty. Prepare to discuss how you’ve taken initiative in previous roles and how you can bring that same energy to their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’re all about making connections, so don’t hesitate to submit your application directly on our site. It shows you’re genuinely interested and gives us a chance to see your enthusiasm right from the start.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through. We want to see that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you’re genuinely excited about the opportunity to disrupt the trading technology industry with us.
Be Specific About Your Experience: Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences that showcase your ability to thrive in ambiguity and execute strategies. Use concrete examples to demonstrate how you've turned ideas into action in previous roles, especially in fast-paced environments.
Keep It Clear and Concise: We appreciate clarity! Make sure your application is well-structured and easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s necessary, and get straight to the point about why you’re the perfect fit for the Head of Operations role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zuma Labs
✨Know the Company Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into Zuma Labs and its products like Venetian and Squawk. Understand their mission to disrupt the OTC trading markets and think about how your skills can contribute to that vision. This will show your genuine interest and help you connect your experience to their goals.
✨Showcase Your Hands-On Experience
As a Head of Operations, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to roll up your sleeves and get things done. Prepare specific examples from your past roles where you've successfully turned strategy into execution, built processes, or solved complex problems. This will highlight your resourcefulness and execution obsession.
✨Embrace Ambiguity
Zuma Labs thrives in fast-moving environments, so be ready to discuss how you've navigated ambiguity in your previous roles. Share stories where you had to make quick decisions or adapt to changing circumstances, showcasing your strategic thinking and operational prowess.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your understanding of the company's challenges and opportunities. Inquire about their current operational bottlenecks or how they envision scaling their processes. This not only shows your interest but also positions you as a proactive problem-solver who’s ready to contribute.