Harper May is partnering with a high-growth financial technology business seeking a Chief Operating Officer to play a key role in shaping its next phase of development.

With the business continuing to evolve, this appointment will be central to strengthening operational infrastructure, improving organisational efficiency, and ensuring the company is well positioned for sustained growth.

This is a senior leadership role for an experienced operator with the credibility to lead from the front and the commercial judgement to support wider business objectives.

Working closely with the executive team, the Chief Operating Officer will take ownership of operational performance, drive greater alignment across functions, and build the frameworks needed to support a scalable, well-run organisation.

The Role

The Chief Operating Officer will oversee the day-to-day operations of the business, ensuring that internal structures, systems, and processes are effective, controlled, and aligned with strategic priorities.

The successful candidate will bring a strong grip on execution, a clear understanding of operational governance, and the ability to improve performance across multiple areas of the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the operational management of the business on a day-to-day basis
• Develop and embed operational frameworks that support scale, control, and long-term performance
• Review and improve internal processes, systems, and workflows across the organisation
• Ensure operational delivery remains aligned with the company’s wider strategic and commercial goals
• Monitor key operational metrics and use insight to drive performance improvement
• Strengthen governance, oversight, and internal control across core business functions
• Work closely with the leadership team to support planning, reporting, and business execution
• Improve coordination across operational, commercial, and support teams
• Identify areas for greater efficiency and implement practical improvements across departments
• Help build a disciplined, high-performing environment with clear accountability and strong internal alignment

Candidate Profile

• Proven experience in a senior operational leadership role within a financial technology or technology-led business
• Strong track record of operating within regulated, complex, or scaling environments
• Experience building and improving operational structures, controls, and internal processes
• Commercially astute, with a practical and measured approach to problem solving
• Strong leadership presence with the ability to manage and develop cross-functional teams
• Excellent stakeholder management skills and the ability to influence at senior level
• Comfortable translating strategic priorities into clear operational action
• Strong understanding of governance, reporting, and performance management