Chief Operations & Trust Leader

Circle; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 253,000 - 306,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equal opportunity employer

Job summary

Circle is seeking a Chief Operating and Trust Officer to operationalize Circle National Trust, overseeing operations, compliance, and performance. The role reports to Circle Group’s executive leadership and the Trust Board, shaping governance and strategy.

You will own the business plan, drive efficiency and risk controls, liaise with regulators, ensure resources, and coordinate across functions to drive profitable operations.

Qualifications

• 15+ years in general management, finance, operations.
• 10+ years leading high‑performing teams.
• Experience in regulated financial services; OCC experience a plus.
• Strong ability to investigate, analyze data and regulations.
• Experience in RegTech or Fintech.
• Proven cross‑functional collaboration with engineers, PMs and analysts.
• Strong communication, planning and project management skills.
• Passion for digital currency and blockchain technologies.
• Embraces AI/automation to improve efficiency and scale.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day‑to‑day operations of Circle National Trust.
• Represent interests within Circle Group and externally.
• Report to executive leadership and the Trust Board on key matters.
• Develop and own the business plan to maximize opportunities and profitability.
• Execute the business plan and liaise with senior executives for cohesive operations.
• Ensure proper operating resources for Circle National Trust.
• Maintain systems for compliance and governance per regulatory requirements.
• Ensure custody and fiduciary compliance with applicable rules.
• Engage regulators and track communications and outcomes.
• Support audits and remediation with program leads.
• Coordinate accounting, tax, treasury, HR and ops with Circle functions.
• Identify gaps and build a long‑term foundation; encourage open discussion.
• Promote effective communication between executives and staff.

Skills

Leadership

Regulatory compliance

Cross-functional collaboration

RegTech / Fintech experience

Blockchain and digital currency

AI and automation awareness

Data analysis and interpretation

Strategic planning

Communication and stakeholder mgmt

Job description

Circle is seeking a Chief Operating and Trust Officer to operationalize Circle National Trust, overseeing operations, compliance, and performance. The role reports to Circle Group’s executive leadership and the Trust Board, shaping governance and strategy.

You will own the business plan, drive efficiency and risk controls, liaise with regulators, ensure resources, and coordinate across functions to drive profitable operations.