COO

Location Abu Dhabi
Discipline: Private & Public Markets
Job type: Permanent
Contact name: Ellie Lynch

Contact email: ellie.lynch@venturesearch.com
Job ref: 3135
Published: about 8 hours ago

Chief Operating Officer (COO) - Family Office, Dubai

About the Family Office:
Our client is a prestigious institutional family office headquartered in Dubai, overseeing a sophisticated portfolio of global investments across asset classes including public markets, private equity, real estate, and alternatives. With a long-term investment horizon and a focus on capital preservation and growth, the family office operates with a highly professional, institutional-grade approach.

Role Overview:
We are seeking an accomplished and strategic Chief Operating Officer (COO) to oversee the operational, financial, and administrative functions of the family office. Reporting directly to the CEO and Board, the COO will play a key leadership role in ensuring the smooth running of the organization, enhancing operational efficiency, managing risk, and supporting the strategic ambitions of the office.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead and manage all operational aspects of the family office, including finance, compliance, reporting, HR, IT, legal, and administration.

  • Develop and implement robust systems, policies, and procedures to support governance, risk management, and best practices.

  • Partner closely with the investment team to support transaction execution, portfolio management, and performance reporting.

  • Manage relationships with external advisors, service providers, auditors, and regulatory bodies.

  • Drive strategic initiatives, including technology upgrades, organizational development, and process improvement.

  • Oversee budgeting, financial reporting, and cash flow management.

  • Maintain the highest standards of confidentiality, security, and service delivery.

Qualifications & Experience:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, or related field; MBA, CPA, or CFA designation preferred.

  • 12+ years of relevant experience, ideally including senior leadership roles within a family office, investment firm, private bank, or asset manager.

  • Strong understanding of investment operations, financial reporting, compliance, and governance frameworks.

  • Proven track record of managing teams, implementing operational best practices, and supporting strategic growth.

  • Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to operate effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

  • Discreet, trustworthy, and adept at managing sensitive and confidential matters.

  • Based in Dubai or willing to relocate.