Chief Operating Officer (m/f/d)

Halian; Riyadh; On-site; SAR 400,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

A pioneering technology company in Saudi Arabia is looking for a Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead its strategic operations and growth initiatives. This role demands an entrepreneurial spirit and a proven track record in scaling B2B SaaS businesses. The ideal candidate will operate at a high level, ensuring the alignment of multiple departments while driving organizational performance. Attractive compensation package including strong salary, performance bonuses, and equity options available. Must be willing to relocate to Riyadh.

Benefits

Competitive executive package

Performance-based annual bonus

Substantial equity (ESOP) grant

Qualifications

• Proven experience as co-founder or senior leader who has scaled a B2B SaaS or technology business.
• Deep understanding of the Saudi and GCC business landscape.
• Track record of driving operational excellence in a fast-paced environment.
• Resourceful, hands-on mentality focused on long-term value.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Partner with CEO in setting company strategy and operational plans.
• Drive organizational performance across all departments.
• Build and manage a high-performing executive team.
• Design operational frameworks to support growth.
• Establish KPIs to ensure delivery of company goals.
• Prepare organization for future strategic events.

Skills

Operational excellence

Cross-functional alignment

Leadership

Communication skills

Builder's mentality

Job description

Job Advert: Chief Operating Officer (COO) - Pioneering Saudi Tech Scale-up

Posted by: Halian Executive Search

Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Position Type: Full-time, Executive

Reporting To: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

About the Search

Halian Executive Search is partnering exclusively with a pioneering, high-growth technology company and the recognized leader in its sector within Saudi Arabia and the GCC. Recently empowered by a substantial Series B investment, our client is in a phase of aggressive scaling and market expansion. They are a profitable, mission-driven organization with a clear and ambitious vision for the future.

As they prepare for their next chapter, we are conducting a confidential search for a foundational executive leader to join their journey.

The Opportunity

This is a rare opportunity to become the Chief Operating Officer (COO), acting as the strategic partner and operational counterpart to the CEO. This is not a maintenance role; it is a ground-floor, build-and-scale mandate.

Your mission will be to architect and drive the internal engine of the company: aligning all functions, implementing scalable processes, and ensuring flawless execution of the strategic plan. You will be directly responsible for translating vision into measurable results, taking significant operational load off the CEO, and leading the organization toward its next major financial and corporate milestones.

You will be joining at the perfect inflection point to leave a lasting legacy.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the CEO’s key partner in setting and driving company strategy, objectives, and operational plans.
• Own and drive organizational performance, ensuring cohesion and alignment across all departments including Marketing, Product, Revenue, HR, and Strategy.
• Build and lead a high‑performing executive team, directly managing senior leaders.
• Design and implement scalable operational frameworks, processes, and systems to support sustainable, profitable growth.
• Establish and monitor company‑wide KPIs and performance metrics to ensure the delivery of short and medium‑term goals.
• Play a central leadership role in preparing the organization for future strategic financial events.

Who We Are Looking For

Our ideal candidate is an entrepreneurial operator, not a corporate bureaucrat. You are motivated by the journey of building a champion.

Essential Experience & Mindset

• Proven experience as a co‑founder, #2 operator, or senior leader who has scaled a B2B SaaS or technology business through a comparable growth stage (e.g., $20M to $50M+ ARR).
• A deep, practical understanding of the Saudi and GCC business landscape, its nuances, and operational realities.
• A demonstrated track record of driving operational excellence and cross‑functional alignment in a complex, fast‑paced environment.
• A builder’s mentality: resourceful, hands‑on, and driven by creating long‑term equity value and legacy.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills, with the ability to mentor senior leaders and inspire a growing organization.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

What You Will Be Offered

• Foundational Impact: A true partner‑to‑the‑CEO role with the autonomy to shape the operational future of a market leader.
• Clear Growth Trajectory: Lead through a critical scaling phase with a well‑defined strategic path and significant market opportunity.
• Compensation for a Builder: A highly competitive executive package, including a strong base salary, a significant performance‑based annual bonus, and a substantial equity (ESOP) grant designed for long‑term wealth creation aligned with company success.
• Leadership & Legacy: The opportunity to build, mentor, and lead a talented team in a dynamic, mission‑driven environment.

Application Process

Please note: This search is managed exclusively by Halian Executive Search. Due to the high volume of applications, we will only respond to candidates whose experience closely matches the essential criteria outlined above.

Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit their CV through the appropriate portal or to the Halian team contact managing this assignment.

All applications and inquiries will be treated with the strictest confidence. The client's identity is disclosed under mutual NDA to candidates who progress in the process.

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