Chief Operating Officer

Chief Operating Officer, UK at  About the role Kraken is on the lookout for a dynamic operational leader to steer our UK operations as we evolve into a fully regulated financial institution. This position is pivotal in overseeing our Electronic Money Institution (EMI) operations, managing the complexities of FCA authorization processes, and spearheading growth initiatives tailored for the UK market. You will collaborate closely with the UK CEO, ensuring that our governance frameworks, operational controls, and product launches align with the stringent standards set by the evolving UK regulatory environment.

• Location:
  
  United Kingdom (Remote)
• Engagement:
  Full-Time
• Team:
  Business Expansion

• Direct the daily operations for UK entities, including Payward Services Limited, focusing on risk management, incident response, audit preparedness, and reporting to both the Board and management teams.
• Spearhead the operational activities related to FCA authorization, including the development and submission of CASP and MiFID applications, ensuring all necessary governance and documentation are in place.
• Act as the primary operational liaison for the FCA, addressing information requests and supervisory inquiries effectively.
• Implement and drive growth strategies within the UK market, with a particular emphasis on enhancing fiat payment systems, institutional payment solutions, and establishing commercial partnerships.
• Supervise product operations and ensure readiness for launches aimed at both consumer and institutional trading, guaranteeing compliance with financial promotion regulations and internal control standards.
• Foster a culture of operational excellence and continuous improvement across the UK team, promoting best practices and innovative solutions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment on strategic initiatives and operational goals.
• Monitor industry trends and regulatory changes to proactively adapt operational strategies and maintain compliance.

• A minimum of 8-12 years of professional experience, ideally with a background in strategy consulting (MBB, Big 4, or boutique firms) followed by hands-on operational execution.
• Demonstrated experience in a rapidly growing UK fintech, banking, or cryptocurrency organization, holding roles such as Chief of Staff, operations lead, or project manager for special initiatives.
• In-depth knowledge of the UK regulatory landscape, particularly FCA requirements encompassing SMCR, Consumer Duty, safeguarding measures, operational resilience, and outsourcing regulations.
• Proven track record of managing intricate, cross-functional projects without direct authority over team members.
• A pragmatic approach to governance that emphasizes organizational protection while minimizing unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.
• Exceptional communication skills, capable of engaging effectively with regulators, executive boards, engineering teams, and commercial partners.
• Comfort in a broad, individual contributor role that emphasizes delivering tangible results rather than managing personnel.

• Extensive knowledge of payment systems, with experience in EMIs, banks, or payment service providers (PSPs).
• Professional experience within the cryptocurrency or digital assets sector.
• Familiarity with SMCR environments and the potential for future growth into formal regulatory responsibilities.
• Experience in leading or supporting comprehensive license applications or regulatory change initiatives.
• A background as a former founder, General Manager, or early-stage operations hire in a startup environment.

• Comprehensive understanding of FCA regulatory frameworks, including MiFID, SMCR, and Consumer Duty.
• Expertise in operational risk management practices.
• Familiarity with payment infrastructure and fiat payment systems.
• Skills in governance and control design.
• Proficiency in managing cross-functional projects effectively.

At Kraken, we assess candidates based on their qualifications and may require job-related skills or work-style evaluations during the hiring process.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment and encourage individuals from diverse backgrounds to apply.