Chief Operating Officer, Consultancy, London

Are you an experienced and dynamic leader ready to drive strategic growth and operational excellence? Join a boutique consultancy with over 20 years of experience advising senior leaders and organisations across the Political, Defence, Media, Education, Arts, and NGO sectors. We are seeking a Chief Operating Officer to help lead the organisation through its next stage of development, ensuring seamless operations and sustainable growth.

As Chief Operating Officer, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and implementing the organisation’s vision, strategy, and operational processes. Reporting directly to the CEO, you will be responsible for streamlining operations, building a high-performing culture, and ensuring organisational goals are achieved. This position is ideal for a proactive leader who thrives in a fast-paced and evolving environment while maintaining a focus on long-term impact and quality.

This is a rare opportunity to work in a mission-driven organisation delivering meaningful change at the highest levels. If you excel in strategic planning, process optimisation, and team leadership, this could be the perfect role for you.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring alignment with the organisation’s goals and values.

• Develop and implement processes to improve efficiency and effectiveness across all functions.

• Establish policies that enhance the organisation’s vision and culture, fostering accountability and excellence.

• Build and nurture a high-performing team, creating a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.

• Act as a strategic partner to the CEO and leadership team, driving operational success and innovation.

• Deliver on complex, sensitive projects, ensuring high standards, timeliness, and cost control.

• Represent the organisation with clients, investors, and business partners, ensuring strong relationships and mutual trust.

• Anticipate challenges and implement creative solutions to meet organisational needs.

Key Requirements

• Proven experience in a Chief Operating Officer job or similar senior leadership role.

• Exceptional organisational and strategic planning skills, with a track record of driving operational excellence.

• Strong communication and relationship management skills, with the ability to engage effectively with senior stakeholders.

• Expertise in project management, including the ability to oversee complex, multifaceted initiatives.

• Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire teams, fostering a culture of accountability and innovation.

• Background in politics, public affairs, or international relations is advantageous but not required.

• Experience with high-quality research projects in areas such as security, geopolitics, or counterterrorism is a plus.

• A proactive, adaptable mindset, with the ability to excel in a dynamic and evolving environment.

• Passion for mission-driven work and a genuine interest in the organisation’s policy areas.