Chief Operating Officer – Senior Operational Leader

About the role

Sanlam Investments East Africa (SIEA) is seeking a Chief Operating Officer to lead the firm’s internal operations. Reporting directly to the CEO, the COO will ensure that all back‑office functions – from investment operations to compliance – run efficiently, accurately and in line with regulatory standards.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee investment operations, client account administration, reporting and third‑party service provider relationships.
• Direct unit trust administration, guaranteeing accurate processing of investor transactions and adherence to trust deeds and regulatory requirements.
• Lead technology, human resources, finance, company secretarial and compliance teams, driving continuous improvement and automation initiatives.
• Monitor operational, financial and reputational risk, ensuring robust controls and governance.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to align operational performance with the firm’s strategic objectives.

Required profile

• Diploma or higher qualification in a relevant discipline.
• Extensive senior‑level experience in operational leadership within the financial services or investment management sector.
• Proven track record of managing multi‑disciplinary teams and delivering process efficiencies.
• Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks governing investment operations.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive benefits package.
• Opportunity to shape the operational backbone of a leading fund manager with over US$2.3 billion in assets under management.
• Dynamic work environment in Nairobi, Kenya.