• Drive operational excellence & branch performance across unsecured lending
• Translate executive strategy into measurable plans, KPIs, & business growth
• Build organisational capability through hands-on leadership, coaching

Job Overview

A prominent finance and lending institution in Papua New Guinea is seeking a hands-on, strategic Chief Operating Officer (COO) to oversee operations, drive growth in unsecured lending, and lead branch and support teams. This is a high-impact role for a results-driven executive who excels in operational execution, revenue growth, and building high-performing teams.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as the CEO’s primary operational and strategic partner, translating enterprise strategy into actionable plans and measurable KPIs.
• Drive performance across branches, back-office teams, and lending operations, ensuring high-quality service, process adherence, and operational compliance.
• Lead unsecured lending operations, including personal loans and payroll-based lending, with a focus on government payroll and key client relationships.
• Participate in executive and board discussions, contributing to enterprise strategy, business plans, and major transformation initiatives.
• Oversee complex operational projects, including automation, pricing reforms, product transitions, and process improvements, ensuring they are embedded into daily operations.
• Build organisational capability through coaching, mentoring, and talent development, including succession planning for operational leadership roles.
• Monitor performance metrics, including loan growth, arrears reduction, cost-to-income, non-interest income, customer satisfaction, and project delivery.
• Act as the operational bridge between CEO, branches, and key clients, resolving high-level customer issues and supporting business development.
• Lead operational response during crises and act as CEO in their absence, ensuring continuity and decisive decision-making.

Candidate Profile:

• Proven leadership in banking, finance, or insurance, with 10+ years hands-on operational experience managing branch networks, back-office teams, and sales operations.
• Strong record of executing complex initiatives, embedding operational discipline, and delivering measurable results.
• Tertiary qualification in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or Business/Commerce; postgraduate qualifications advantageous.
• Exceptional personal integrity, practical communication, financial judgment, and cultural adaptability, with a deep understanding of the PNG business environment.
• Calm, decisive, and results-focused under pressure.

Why Join: This is a high-profile executive role offering the opportunity to shape operations, drive growth, and make a tangible impact in a leading finance and lending institution in PNG.

If you are ready to take the next step in your career, click Apply Now and submit the following:

• A cover letter addressing the key criteria of the role.
• An updated CV in Microsoft Word format outlining relevant experience, qualifications, and three referees (referees will only be contacted if shortlisted).

Visit www.peopleconnexion.com/png to register.

Your legacy is our business.