Chief Operations Officer (COO) - Tech Startup

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Stock options

Health benefits

Remote work autonomy

Performance bonus

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Chief Operations Officer to scale operations for a fast-paced tech startup in a remote-first environment. You will optimize processes, build scalable infrastructure, and lead cross-functional, distributed teams to enable rapid expansion.

A strong track record in high-growth tech ops and strategic execution is essential. You will drive operational excellence, manage the budget, and implement modern tools and KPIs to ensure efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Qualifications

• 10–15 years in operations management with 5–7 years in exec roles.
• Proven scale-up experience in high-growth tech startups.
• Experience with remote or hybrid operating models.
• Strong financial management and budgeting.
• Familiar with software development lifecycles.
• Excellent communication and leadership.

Responsibilities

• Develop scalable operational strategy aligned to growth.
• Oversee tech infra, customer support, PM, and processes.
• Lead and mentor distributed teams.
• Implement frameworks for efficiency and quality.
• Manage budget, drive cost-efficiency.
• Adopt new technologies to boost ops.
• Track KPIs and drive continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with CEO/CTO on strategy.
• Ensure regulatory compliance.
• Foster innovation and remote culture.

Skills

Leadership

Strategy

Budgeting

Remote leadership

Stakeholder management

Change management

Education

MBA

Business degree

Tools

CRM systems

Cloud infrastructure

Agile methodologies

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a fast-paced and innovative tech startup poised for significant growth, is actively searching for a visionary Chief Operations Officer (COO). This executive leadership role is pivotal in scaling the company's operations, optimizing processes, and ensuring efficient execution across all business functions. The ideal candidate will thrive in a dynamic, remote-first environment and possess a deep understanding of operational strategy, technology implementation, and team leadership. You will be instrumental in building scalable infrastructure, managing cross-functional teams, and driving operational excellence to support rapid expansion. This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned operations executive to shape the operational DNA of a groundbreaking company from the ground up, working entirely remotely. If you are passionate about innovation and possess a proven track record of operational success in high-growth tech environments, we want to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a scalable operational strategy that aligns with the company's growth objectives and product roadmap.
• Oversee and optimize day-to-day operations, including technology infrastructure, customer support, project management, and internal processes.
• Lead and mentor high-performing, distributed teams across various functional areas.
• Implement and refine operational frameworks and best practices to ensure efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction.
• Manage the operational budget, drive cost-efficiency, and oversee resource allocation to support strategic initiatives.
• Identify and implement new technologies and tools to enhance operational capabilities and productivity.
• Develop and track key operational metrics (KPIs) to measure performance and drive continuous improvement.
• Collaborate closely with the CEO, CTO, and other executive team members to align operational plans with overall business strategy.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legal and regulatory requirements.
• Foster a strong company culture of innovation, collaboration, and accountability within a remote setting.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field; an MBA or relevant Master's degree is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in operations management, with at least 5-7 years in a senior executive role (COO, VP of Operations) within a technology company or fast-paced startup.
• Proven experience in scaling operations for a high-growth tech organization, ideally in a remote or hybrid setting.
• Strong understanding of software development lifecycles, cloud infrastructure, and agile methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage diverse, remote teams effectively.
• Exceptional strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate.
• Experience with financial management, budgeting, and forecasting in a startup environment.
• Proficiency in using modern collaboration tools, project management software, and CRM systems.
• A proactive, hands-on approach with a passion for innovation and building efficient systems.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive executive compensation package, including a competitive salary, significant stock options/equity, comprehensive health benefits, and a performance-driven bonus structure. This is an unparalleled opportunity to be a key stakeholder in a high-potential tech startup. Enjoy the full autonomy and flexibility of a remote role, supported by a dedicated team and a clear vision for success. The company values employee well-being and provides ample opportunities for professional growth and impact. This role is ideal for a driven leader ready to build and scale a world-class operation.