Talent.com
This job offer is not available in your country.
COO

COO

Humankind GroupWes-Kaap, South Africa
1 day ago
Job description

Chief Operating Officer (COO)

Location : Cape Town, Western Cape

About the Organisation

We are a leading, diversified investment management firm with a strong focus on driving sustainable economic growth across Africa and global markets. Our purpose is to empower clients and communities by developing investment solutions that deliver meaningful impact and long-term value.

With extensive in-house expertise and a growing network of strategic partners, we manage a broad range of asset classes — both private and public — through innovative, client-focused investment strategies. We are a proudly Level 1 B-BBEE contributor and one of the largest black-empowered investment firms in Southern Africa.

Our Alternative Investments division is committed to building the African continent through sustainable, impactful investing. The team manages diverse portfolios across Private Equity, Infrastructure, Property, Specialised Finance, and Strategic Partnerships , with a focus on supporting financial inclusion and long-term development.

About the Role

We are seeking a Chief Operating Officer (COO) to lead and scale the operational platform supporting our ambitious growth strategy. This is a key executive role for a seasoned and dynamic leader with deep operational, strategic, and investment management experience.

The COO will be responsible for transforming the current operating model into a robust, globally scalable platform that meets the rigorous due diligence standards of international institutional investors. This role will drive operational excellence, data integrity, and cross-functional alignment to support sustainable growth and enhance transparency across the business.

Key Responsibilities

  • Operational Platform Development : Design and implement a world-class operational platform that supports global institutional requirements and future business expansion.
  • Fund Establishment and Management : Oversee the setup and management of new funds locally and internationally, ensuring compliance with regulatory and governance frameworks.
  • Service Provider Management : Build and maintain relationships with third-party service providers, including fund administrators, auditors, and legal advisors.
  • Strategic Planning : Partner with the CEO and executive team to define and execute strategic objectives and performance targets.
  • Project Management : Lead key initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, technology adoption, and business process improvement.

Operations Management

  • Financial and Risk Oversight : Collaborate with the CFO and CRO to ensure alignment across budgeting, forecasting, and risk management frameworks.
  • Technology and Infrastructure : Champion the use of advanced systems and tools to streamline operations and support strategic objectives.
  • Change Management : Drive internal transformation and ensure alignment between operational teams and strategic priorities.
  • Investor Reporting : Standardise and enhance investor reporting to meet international best practices.
  • Data Governance : Ensure strong data governance and compliance with internal and regulatory standards.
  • Process Optimisation : Streamline operational processes and ensure proper documentation across business functions.

    • Team Leadership

  • People Management : Build and lead a high-performing, future-ready operational team.
  • Mentorship : Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
  • Performance Management : Establish clear KPIs, review team performance, and ensure delivery on strategic goals.

    • Experience & Qualifications

  • Minimum of 10 years’ experience in a senior operational leadership role within the asset management or investment industry .
  • Proven track record in building and scaling global investment platforms .
  • Expertise in fund establishment , including multi-jurisdictional structures and compliance.
  • Demonstrated experience in managing fund administrators, legal advisors, and other service providers .
  • Strong understanding of institutional investor due diligence requirements and operational best practices .
  • Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business, or a related field (postgraduate or MBA advantageous).

    • Key Skills & Attributes

  • Strategic Vision : Ability to align operational initiatives with long-term business strategy.
  • Execution Excellence : Strong delivery focus with an emphasis on measurable outcomes.
  • Influential Leadership : Inspires collaboration and drives change across complex environments.
  • Operational Expertise : Deep knowledge of asset management operations, risk, and governance.
  • Analytical & Technological Acumen : Comfortable working with data and modern financial systems.
  • Integrity & Professionalism : Upholds the highest ethical standards.
  • Resilience : Thrives under pressure and adapts quickly to change.

    • #J-18808-Ljbffr

    Create a job alert for this search

    Coo • Wes-Kaap, South Africa