Fintech COO: Scale Operations with AI & Growth

Liquid Thought Group; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Liquid Thought Group is seeking a results-driven Chief Operating Officer to design and scale operations for a fast-growing fintech in Cape Town. You will drive operational excellence, leverage AI and automation, and partner with the CEO to execute strategy.

You will lead end-to-end operations, build high-performing teams, manage risk and regulatory compliance, and ensure exceptional customer experiences while delivering measurable KPIs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Commerce or Finance; MBA advantageous.
• 15+ years of operational experience, including 5+ years in an executive role.
• Experience in fintech, banking, payments or financial services.
• Strong understanding of SA financial services regulations.
• Proven track record of scaling operations in growth businesses.
• Experience driving AI or automation initiatives within operations.
• Excellent process, systems and people leadership.
• Strategic and hands-on approach in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement the operating model, processes and controls for a growing business.
• Oversee day-to-day operations including customer service, onboarding and payments.
• Identify and implement AI and automation opportunities to improve efficiency and service.
• Collaborate with technology and product teams to deliver reliable customer experiences.
• Ensure regulatory compliance and sound risk management.
• Manage operational partners including banks and payment providers.
• Set and track operational KPIs, budgets and service levels.
• Build and lead high-performing operational teams.
• Partner with the CEO on strategy and execution.

Skills

Executive leadership

Operations strategy

Regulatory & risk

Stakeholder management

Process optimization

Education

Bachelor's in Business/Commerce/Finance

MBA

Job description

Liquid Thought Group is seeking a results-driven Chief Operating Officer to design and scale operations for a fast-growing fintech in Cape Town. You will drive operational excellence, leverage AI and automation, and partner with the CEO to execute strategy.

You will lead end-to-end operations, build high-performing teams, manage risk and regulatory compliance, and ensure exceptional customer experiences while delivering measurable KPIs.