Chief Operating Officer – Digital Business Unit

About the role

The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is a cross‑cutting enabling role within the Digital Business Unit (DBU), supporting the Managing Director and functional teams to deliver the unit’s strategic plan.

Key responsibilities

• Partner with the MD and ExCo in strategic and operational decision‑making, translating DBU strategy into coordinated execution across functional teams.
• Own the DBU performance framework, including strategic and operational KPIs, benefits realization and quarterly business reviews.
• Drive scaling of digital, platform and technology‑enabled propositions, directing process improvement, automation and digital transformation programmes.
• Accountable for enterprise portfolio governance, initiative prioritisation, resource allocation and investment decisions.
• Oversee DBU operating model effectiveness, governance structures and cross‑functional alignment.
• Provide cross‑functional operational governance, establishing policies, internal controls and risk and business continuity standards.
• Lead the DBU Finance function, overseeing budget planning, cost tracking and financial reporting.
• Set governance standards for project and portfolio delivery and hold functional teams accountable for agreed actions and timelines.
• Lead transformation governance, tracking adoption of new tools, ways of working and process redesign.
• Facilitate coordination between the MD, ExCo and functional heads and prepare management and board meeting narratives.
• Ensure adherence to AML, sanctions and compliance policies, conducting KYC and due‑diligence activities.

Required profile

• 10+ years senior experience in operations, finance business partnering, PMO or business management, with proven budget consolidation across multiple functions.
• Track record of scaling digital, platform or fintech services and leading process improvement, automation or digital transformation programmes.
• Strong financial acumen with experience in planning, budgeting and P&L management.
• Working knowledge of insurance products, distribution models and the regulatory environment.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance or related field; MBA preferred; professional qualifications such as ACII, FLMI, PMP or Lean Six Sigma are a plus.