Chief Operating Officer (COO) – Financial Services

About the role

The organisation is a leading financial services provider in Papua New Guinea seeking a seasoned Chief Operating Officer to partner with the CEO. This senior executive will translate strategy into disciplined execution, drive operational excellence and lead the next phase of growth.

Key responsibilities

• Lead enterprise‑wide operational performance and service delivery.
• Drive major business transformation, technology and automation initiatives.
• Improve organisational efficiency, customer outcomes and operational discipline.
• Develop leadership capability and foster a culture of accountability.
• Establish and monitor key operational performance indicators.
• Oversee cross‑functional collaboration and significant improvement projects.
• Partner with the CEO to execute strategic priorities and organisational objectives.
• Ensure strong governance, regulatory compliance and risk management.
• Act as CEO during periods of absence.

Required profile

• Extensive senior leadership experience in banking, financial services, insurance or another regulated commercial environment.
• Proven track record of operational improvement and organisational transformation.
• Strong commercial and financial acumen.
• Experience leading technology‑enabled change and process improvement.
• Ability to translate strategy into measurable operational outcomes.
• Exceptional stakeholder engagement and communication skills.
• Collaborative leadership style with coaching capability.
• High integrity, resilience and sound judgement.
• Tertiary qualifications in Business, Commerce, Finance, Economics or Accounting; MBA or CA highly regarded.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to make a genuine executive‑level impact within a respected financial services organisation.
• Leadership of a high‑performing operational culture focused on digital transformation and sustainable growth.