We are not your run-of-the-mill bank. It's our people which makes us exceptional. Every individual here is valued - not just for what they do, but for who they are. We’ve built a culture rooted in purpose, passion, and a healthy dose of humanity.
Joining Alpha Bank London isn’t just about a career - it’s about connection. You’ll collaborate with colleagues from all walks of life, building bonds that last and networks that matter. It’s this blend of international reach and local expertise that makes us strong. Whether you’re starting out or stepping up. You’ll find responsibility, variety, and experiences that go far beyond what a boutique bank or a corporate giant could offer alone. Together, we amplify ideas, share knowledge, and create impact.
We believe in doing well and doing good. That means more than closing deals; it’s about making a difference for our clients, our communities, and each other. Because when one of us succeeds, we all succeed.
Ready to make your mark? Let’s do it. Together.
The Role
As Head of Operations, you will play a pivotal leadership role in shaping and executing the operational strategy of Alpha Bank London as we evolve into a mass affluent digital retail bank. You will oversee a broad portfolio — from payments and treasury operations to KYC, card operations — ensuring regulatory compliance, and a seamless customer experience.
The ideal candidate for this position is someone who takes a practical, hands‑on approach and takes pride in process improvement and the embedding of new systems. Driving operational enhancements and embedding best practices throughout the organisation. Strategic thinking and a forward‑looking mindset are essential, as has the ability to build and lead teams effectively. This individual will thrive in a transformative environment, working closely with the COO to design and implement the future operating model. They will champion innovation and inspire high‑performing teams within the Operations function.
What You’ll Do
* Partner with the COO to design and deliver the strategic roadmap for Operations, including the future target operating model for a digital retail bank.
* Lead, mentor, and empower your direct reports — fostering a collaborative, high‑performance culture across Operations.
Operational Excellence
* Own the Bank’s Payments Strategy, ensuring competitive advantage and full compliance with scheme rules.
* Oversee the design and implementation of an effective customer onboarding and due diligence programme aligned with AML best practice.
* Perform key security administration functions for SWIFT, Bankline, and HMRC profiles and permissions.
* Lead the implementation of Straight Through Processing (STP) and workflow automation enabled by the new Core Banking System.
* Strengthen operational capability across Card Operations, AML, and Fraud Management.
Regulatory Compliance & Governance
* Ensure timely and accurate delivery of all regulatory reporting within your area.
* Maintain full compliance with CASS and MiFID II reporting obligations.
What You’ll Bring
* Extensive experience in Banking Operations, including treasury mid/back office, payments, and loan administration.
* Strong background in digital banking models, hybrid service environments, and managing both in‑house and outsourced teams. Experience in a retail digital or neo bank environment is preferred.
* Expertise in Cards Operations, complaints management, AML/KYC, CASS, and payments (including SWIFT)
* Deep understanding of evolving digital banking trends and fintech‑driven operating models.
* Proven track record delivering modern operating models using STP, automated workflows, and continuous improvement methodologies.
* Strategic mindset with the ability to lead through change and bring people with you.
* Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder‑management skills.
* Prior experience in the UK payments market (PSD2, Agency Banking, SWIFT), AML/KYC, vendor management, and Operational Resilience.
Why Join Us?
You’ll experience our core values in action:
* Innovation – Contribute ideas to improve processes and efficiency.
* Collaboration – Work closely with a supportive team to achieve shared goals.
* Excellence – Deliver accurate, high‑quality work that makes a difference.
* Delivery – See the results of your efforts in real‑time operations.
* Empowerment – Take ownership of your tasks and build skills for your next career step.
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