Head of Operations - Crypto

Overview

About The Role

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the company's operational strategy in alignment with business objectives.
• Oversee day-to-day exchange operations, ensuring efficiency, reliability, and scalability.
• Lead and manage core operational functions including customer operations, onboarding, payments, settlements, treasury support, and operational risk.
• Design, implement, and optimize operational processes, controls, and workflows.
• Partner closely with Compliance, Risk, Finance, Product, Technology, and Executive Leadership teams.
• Establish and monitor KPIs, SLAs, and operational performance metrics.
• Ensure operational readiness for new product launches, market expansions, and strategic initiatives.
• Drive automation and continuous improvement programs to enhance efficiency and customer experience.
• Support regulatory requirements and operational compliance frameworks within the UAE and other jurisdictions.
• Build, mentor, and scale high-performing operations teams.

Requirements

• 8+ years of experience in operations leadership roles with some experience in a cryptocurrency exchange.
• Proven experience managing complex operational environments and scaling teams.
• Strong understanding of cryptocurrency trading, exchange operations, custody, settlements, liquidity management, and customer lifecycle processes.
• Experience working within regulated financial services environments.
• Demonstrated ability to build operational frameworks, policies, and procedures from the ground up.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Economics, Operations Management, or a related field.
• Advanced degree or relevant professional certifications are advantageous.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience with a crypto exchange, digital asset platform, brokerage, or payment institution.
• Familiarity with UAE regulatory frameworks and digital asset regulations.
• Experience supporting licensing, audits, and regulatory examinations.
• Knowledge of operational risk management and governance frameworks.