Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 4,200,000 - 5,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Annual bonus

Equity participation

Medical, dental and vision coverage

Executive retirement plan

Job summary

Placements24 in Klerksdorp, South Africa, seeks an exceptional Chief Operating Officer to lead its extensive operations in the financial services sector. The COO will drive operational excellence, risk management and regulatory compliance while shaping strategic direction and inspiring a high-performance leadership team.

The role requires 15+ years of senior leadership, an MBA or related master's, and a proven track record of transforming large organizations.

Qualifications

• MBA, Finance or related master's degree is required.
• Minimum 15 years in senior operational leadership, ideally in financial services.
• Proven success in developing and executing complex operational strategies.
• Extensive knowledge of financial regulations, risk management and compliance.
• Proven ability to lead, inspire and develop large teams.
• Strong strategic thinking, analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and stakeholder management.
• Experience with digital transformation in operations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and direct day-to-day operations to align with strategic goals.
• Develop and implement operational strategies for growth, efficiency and profitability.
• Manage and optimize technology infrastructure and systems.
• Ensure adherence to regulatory requirements, risk management and compliance.
• Lead, mentor and develop the senior operations leadership team.
• Drive continuous improvement in operations, customer service and cost reduction.
• Manage the operational budget, capex and resource allocation.
• Collaborate with the CEO and other C-suite executives on strategic planning.
• Oversee implementation of new technologies and processes.
• Represent the company with investors and regulators on operational matters.
• Foster a culture of high performance, accountability and innovation.
• Monitor industry trends to keep the company competitive.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Leadership

Change management

Financial acumen

Regulatory knowledge

Stakeholder management

Negotiation

People development

Education

MBA

Finance degree or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly successful and rapidly growing financial services institution, is seeking an exceptional and visionary Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead its extensive operations. This executive-level position, based in Klerksdorp, North West , will have ultimate responsibility for the efficiency and effectiveness of all company operations. The COO will play a critical role in shaping and executing the company's strategic vision, driving operational excellence, and ensuring robust risk management and compliance frameworks. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record in senior operational leadership, a deep understanding of the financial services industry, and outstanding strategic, analytical, and management capabilities. This is an opportunity to significantly influence the trajectory of a leading financial entity.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and direct all day-to-day operations of the company, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.
• Develop and implement operational strategies that drive growth, efficiency, and profitability.
• Manage and optimize the company's technological infrastructure and operational systems.
• Ensure the company adheres to all regulatory requirements, compliance standards, and risk management protocols.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the senior operational leadership team.
• Drive initiatives for continuous improvement in all operational areas, including customer service, process optimization, and cost reduction.
• Manage the operational budget, capital expenditures, and resource allocation.
• Collaborate closely with the CEO and other C-suite executives on strategic planning and execution.
• Oversee the implementation of new technologies and operational processes.
• Represent the company in operational matters to stakeholders, including investors and regulators.
• Foster a culture of high performance, accountability, and innovation.
• Monitor industry trends and best practices to ensure the company remains competitive.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA), Finance, or a related field.
• Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in senior operational leadership roles, preferably within the financial services sector.
• Demonstrated success in developing and executing complex operational strategies for large organizations.
• Extensive knowledge of financial regulations, risk management, and compliance frameworks.
• Proven ability to lead and inspire large, diverse teams.
• Exceptional strategic thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing significant budgets and P&Ls.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience with digital transformation and technological innovation in operations.
• A strong understanding of market dynamics and competitive landscapes.
• Proven ability to drive change and foster a culture of operational excellence.

Benefits

• This executive position offers an exceptional compensation package, including a highly competitive base salary, substantial annual bonus, and equity participation.
• Comprehensive benefits include top-tier medical, dental, and vision coverage, a generous retirement plan, and executive life insurance.
• Opportunities for extensive professional development, executive coaching, and participation in industry-leading conferences.
• Be part of shaping the future of a prominent financial institution.
• The role is based in Klerksdorp , offering a strategic position within the region.
• Enjoy significant autonomy and influence, plus a generous leave policy and executive perks.