Role Overview:
The Chief Operating & Compliance Officer (COCO) will be responsible for ensuring the smooth operation of business support functions including finance, compliance, governance, HR policy oversight, and legal administration. As a key member of the senior leadership team, this role provides strategic and operational support across both the dealership and the accident repair centre.
Key Responsibilities:
Finance & Business Performance
* Lead the annual budgeting and forecasting process
* Produce monthly and quarterly management accounts and OEM composite reports
* Monitor departmental KPIs, cost control, and cash flow performance
* Support department heads with financial insights and planning
* Produce, update and monitor Daily Operating Controls document
Governance & Legal Compliance
* Maintain statutory registers and ensure Companies House filings are accurate and timely
* Prepare board packs, minutes, and resolutions
* Manage commercial contracts, shareholder documents, NDAs, and supplier agreements
* Ensure compliance with GDPR, Companies Act, FCA, ITC, and other relevant motor industry regulations
Regulatory & Risk Management
* Maintain company policies related to health & safety, FCA, anti-bribery, and AML compliance
* Coordinate internal audits and manage external audit relationships
* Champion a culture of ethical and compliant behaviour
Operations & People
* Oversee business support operations including IT, facilities, and HR policy alignment
* Work with managers to improve systems, processes, and operational efficiency. Carry our regular operational checks/balances and coaching
* Lead on insurance renewals, data security, and procurement processes
Strategy & Implementation
* Translate business objectives into financial and operational delivery plans
* Track and report progress against strategic priorities
* Support growth initiatives including property, staffing or structural changes
Person Specification:
Experience -
Non-Negotiable:
* Proven track record in automotive finance, compliance and operational leadership
* Experience producing automotive management accounts and financial reports
* Knowledge of regulatory frameworks and Companies Act requirements
Nice-to-have:
* Exposure to EOT, MBO, or share scheme structures
* Previous company secretary responsibility
* Very recent automotive experience to understand the challenges in transition, increasing cost base, loss of consumer confidence in F&I etc
Qualifications -
Non-Negotiable:
* Financial qualifications and appropriate governance qualifications
Nice-to-have:
* Business or legal degree
Skills & Knowledge -
Non-Negotiable:
* Strong financial acumen and commercial awareness
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills
* Ability to manage multiple priorities and drive continuous improvement
Nice-to-have:
* Familiarity with Pinewood or similar systems
* Understanding of backward compatible and future IT systems
* Familiarity with FCA compliance
Personal Attributes -
Non-Negotiable:
* High levels of integrity and discretion
* Organised, dependable, and detail-oriented
* Great communicator
* Forward looking
Nice-to-have:
* Collaborative and engaging leadership style