Chief Operating Officer (COO)

THE INSTITUTE OF ISMAILI STUDIES; London; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organization in higher education seeks a Chief Operating Officer to drive strategic operational initiatives. The ideal candidate will possess a strong operational leadership background, financial acumen, and experience in managing complex stakeholder relationships within educational settings. Valuable qualities include empathy and cultural sensitivity in alignment with the Institute's values. The role offers a competitive salary and the chance to lead impactful projects in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• The role requires strong leadership skills in complex governance environments.
• Experience relevant to higher education institutions is essential.
• Strong financial reporting and audit coordination skills needed.

Responsibilities

• Lead core operational functions including Finance, IT, and People management.
• Engage high-level stakeholders and represent IIS on property committees.
• Drive project leadership, risk management, and foster an inclusive culture.

Skills

Stakeholder management

Financial fluency

Project leadership

Interpersonal skills

Cultural sensitivity

Education

Master’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, or related field

Job description

Competitive salary based on experience

London, Kings Cross

Chief Operating Officer

About the role:

The Institute of Ismaili Studies (IIS) is seeking a dynamic and strategic Chief Operating Officer (COO) to support the Director in delivering The Institute’s vision and strategy. A key member of the senior leadership team, the COO will lead and oversee core operational functions including Finance, People and Culture, and IT, ensuring their alignment with strategic objectives and long-term sustainability.

The role involves high-level stakeholder engagement, responsibility for IIS space use in the Aga Khan Centre, and representation on the King’s Cross Property Committee. The COO will also play a central role in project leadership, risk management, and organisational improvement, fostering a collaborative and inclusive culture.

We are looking for a confident leader who can operate effectively in a complex governance environment, with a strong track record in operational leadership, people development, and cross-functional collaboration.

What we’re looking for:

• Experience in project and stakeholder management across complex organisational settings.
• High-level financial fluency, with experience in budgeting, financial reporting, audit coordination, and compliance with financial regulations.
• Experience managing IT strategy and operations, including systems that support teaching, learning, and internal services.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence, present clearly, and foster collaboration.
• Experience in an academic or higher education institution, particularly with an international or cross-cultural focus.
• The ability to navigate complex governance environments and build strong relationships with diverse internal and external stakeholders.
• Empathy, cultural sensitivity, and an appreciation of the values and mission of the IIS.

Desirable:

• A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Business Administration, Finance, Accountancy, or a related field.
• Experience working within the not-for-profit or charity sector.
• Familiarity with the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) and/or Jamati Institutions.

This closing date for this listing is 21st August 2025.