Chief Operating Officer, Clonmel Credit Union
Role Profile
Reports to: Chief Executive Officer
Direct Reports: Project Manager, Risk & Compliance Officer, Data Management Officer, Operations Officer & associated staff.
Status: Permanent
Clonmel Credit Union is a large and successful credit union with more than 30,000 members. The organisation has assets of circa €295 million, a loan book of €91 million and a €4.8m projected surplus for the year ended September 30th, 2025.
This newly created position provides an opportunity to join a dynamic financial institution dedicated to delivering an exceptional proposition, value & service to its members and served communities. The COO will play a pivotal role in shaping and delivering the Credit Union’s strategy for an ambitious and sustainable future.
Role Purpose
The Chief Operating Officer is responsible for day-to-day operational excellence across the Credit Union. The COO will lead robust risk management and regulatory compliance, evolving and executing our strategic plan and configuring the organisation for a sustainable future.
Key Responsibilities
Operational Management
* Direct and oversee Risk & Compliance, Operations, Outsourced, Digital and ICT functions.
* Establish operational processes, controls and KPIs that ensure efficiency and regulatory compliance.
* Drive continuous improvement and service excellence across all operations.
* Coordinate cross-functional activities to ensure cohesive delivery of services to members.
Strategic Execution
* Work with the CEO to develop and execute the Strategic Plan
* Lead operational implementation of strategic initiatives, particularly product expansion.
* Identify opportunities for innovation and service enhancement.
* Ensure operational readiness to support expanded product offerings.
Regulatory Affairs
* Maintain oversight of operational, credit, compliance, and technology risks.
* Coordinate with the outsourced Risk Management Officer to ensure alignment with the credit union’s risk framework and regulatory obligations.
* Ensure full compliance with Credit Union legislation, subsidiary regulations, and all other regulatory requirements, along with legislative frameworks such as AML and GDPR.
* Ensure all policies align with legal, regulatory, and best practice requirements.
* Monitor external economic and regulatory environment and ensure organisational preparedness.
* Manage regulatory relationships, inspections, and submissions.
ICT & Operational Resilience
* Lead the implementation of the ICT strategy, ensuring alignment with business model evolution and regulatory expectations.
* Ensure operational resilience through robust systems, contingency planning, and incident response capabilities in line with Central Bank guidance.
* Coordinate internal alignment with the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) principles ahead of formal applicability in 2028.
* Oversee cybersecurity controls and governance, ensuring protection of member data and business continuity.
* Ensure strong oversight of outsourced and third-party ICT providers, including risk assessments and compliance with outsourcing regulations.
Leadership & Culture
* Lead by personal example, embodying the Credit Union's member-centric values and ethical standards.
* Build and develop high-performing teams across all operational areas.
* Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and service excellence.
* Support professional development and succession planning.
Reporting & Governance
* Deliver periodic reports to CEO and Board on operational performance, risk, and compliance.
* Deputise for the CEO during periods of absence.
* Present to Board committees as required.
Person Specification
Essential
* Third level degree as well as an appropriate postgraduate qualification
* Minimum 10 years' experience in broader financial services sector with at least 3 years at senior management level
* Proven record managing multiple operational functions in regulated environment and knowledge of Central Bank of Ireland requirements.
* Strong knowledge of Irish financial services regulation and risk management frameworks
* Credit Union or mutual/cooperative financial institution experience.
* Demonstrated leadership ability with record of leading a high-performing team.
Key Competencies
* Strategic thinking and operational excellence
* Risk and compliance management expertise.
* Strong financial acumen and analytical skills
* Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
* Solution based thinking - change management and problem-solving abilities.
* Technology literacy and digital transformation understanding
* Genuine commitment to member service and cooperative values
* High integrity and resilience under pressure
Competitive remuneration package commensurate with the seniority and scope of the role.
Applications including CV to Billy Fitzgerald, Pathways HR -
Closing Date for receipt of applications is October 30th, 2025.
Short listing may apply & assessment will be undertaken based on the information provided in the application.
Clonmel Credit Union Limited is an Equal Opportunities Employer
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