The client is an early-stage NeoBank preparing to enter the UK market and pursue EMI authorisation with the FCA. Built around transparent pricing, human-first support, and modern payment infrastructure, the company aims to serve mobile individuals and SMEs across Europe.
This is a rare opportunity to step into a CEO role at a critical inflection point - leading regulatory approval, defining product-market fit, and scaling a fintech platform across the UK and EU. The role combines strategic leadership with hands-on execution in a high-growth, investor-backed environment.
🔍 Responsibilities:
* Lead the company through the UK EMI authorisation process with the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA);
* Define and execute the company’s strategic roadmap, from licensing to full market launch;
* Drive UK market entry and expansion strategy, followed by EU passporting and scaling;
* Ensure full regulatory compliance across UK and EU frameworks (PSD2/PSD3, AML, safeguarding);
* Oversee end-to-end operations including product, compliance, risk, and commercial functions;
* Build and maintain strong relationships with regulators, banking partners, investors, and key stakeholders;
* Define and validate product–market fit for both retail and SME customer segments;
* Lead financial planning, capital strategy, and revenue model development;
* Act as the public face of the company across industry events, investor relations, and media;
* Build, mentor, and scale a high-performing executive and operational team.
🎓 Requirements:
* 5+ years in a senior leadership role (CEO, COO, MD or equivalent) within UK or EU fintech, payments, or banking;
* Proven experience launching and scaling fintech or payments products in the UK and/or Europe;
* Strong understanding of UK payment infrastructure (Faster Payments, Open Banking, card issuing/acquiring, A2A payments);
* Deep knowledge of UK regulatory environment (FCA, EMI frameworks, AML/KYC requirements);
* Experience engaging with regulators and ideally leading or supporting EMI licensing processes;
* Strong network within UK/EU fintech, payments, and investor ecosystems;
* Strategic mindset with the ability to operate hands‑on in an early‑stage environment;
* Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills;
* Ability to meet FCA “fit & proper” requirements for senior management functions.
✨ The Employer Offers:
* Opportunity to lead and shape a high‑potential NeoBank from inception to scale;
* Equity participation aligned with long‑term value creation;
* Flexible engagement model during licensing phase, transitioning into full executive role;
* High level of autonomy and ownership in strategic decision‑making;
* Exposure to investors, regulators, and top‑tier fintech partners across Europe;
* Dynamic, entrepreneurial environment with strong growth ambitions;
* Competitive executive compensation package as the company scales.
If you’re ready to build and lead a next‑generation financial institution in the UK and beyond, let’s talk!
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