Chief Operating Officer (Operations, Data & Digital)

About the role

Edge Growth Solutions is a South African impact business that designs and delivers Enterprise and Supplier Development (ESD) programmes for SMEs, working across banking, insurance, mining and energy. It is entering a new phase of growth and wants to scale without adding cost and complexity at the same rate, using data and technology more effectively. The Chief Operating Officer leads this shift across Operations, Data and Digital in a build-and-run role, working with the CEO and leadership team to turn strategy into action, raise productivity and margin and make growth easier to deliver.

Key responsibilities

• Build and run a simple, scalable operating model with clear roles, efficient workflows and a strong management rhythm
• Enable delivery teams with the tools, processes, systems and support they need
• Own operational risk and controls, and manage supplier and vendor selection
• Capture knowledge and intellectual property in reusable methods and tools
• Set a data strategy, build and maintain data systems, and ensure accurate, timely reporting
• Define data governance, quality and privacy standards, including compliance with POPIA
• Turn data into insights that improve programme performance and client conversations
• Own the strategy, roadmap and performance of digital platforms, and use automation and AI to reduce manual work
• Lead strong Operations, Data and Digital teams and represent them with senior clients, partners and vendors

Required profile

• Experience designing or rebuilding an operating model, data capability or digital platform
• Experience running a complex, multi-client business to a high standard
• Has led data or technology work directly; does not need to be an engineer
• Experience in professional services or another people-intensive business is useful
• Able to influence executives and represent the business with major corporate clients