Overview
COO Jobs in Atlanta, GA at Selby Jennings
Title: COO
Company: Selby Jennings
Location: Atlanta, GA
We are seeking a dynamic and strategic COO/CFO to serve as a key member of the executive leadership team for a growing ESOP Trust company. This role combines operational, financial, and strategic leadership responsibilities with hands-on execution across core business functions. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in the wealth, trust, fiduciary, or adjacent financial services sectors and a proven ability to scale operations while maintaining strong governance and compliance frameworks.
This leader will oversee Operations, Finance, Accounting, HR, IT, Governance, Compliance, and enterprise-wide project management while driving execution against strategic priorities and business objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Executive Leadership & Strategy
- Partner with the CEO and Board to define and execute the company's strategic vision and long-term growth plans
- Translate strategy into actionable operational and financial plans with measurable outcomes
- Lead cross-functional initiatives to improve scalability, efficiency, and client service delivery
- Serve as a trusted advisor on business performance, risks, and opportunities
Operations & Business Management
- Oversee day-to-day operations of the ESOP trust platform, ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and scalability
- Develop and implement operational policies, procedures, and performance standards
- Establish KPIs and operational metrics to track performance and drive continuous improvement
- Ensure high-quality service delivery aligned with fiduciary responsibilities and client expectations
Finance & Accounting
- Lead all financial functions, including budgeting, forecasting, financial planning, and analysis
- Oversee accounting operations, financial reporting, audits, and internal controls
- Ensure accurate and timely financial statements in accordance with applicable standards
- Manage cash flow, capital planning, and financial risk
- Provide strategic financial insights to support decision-making and growth initiatives
Governance, Risk & Compliance
- Ensure adherence to fiduciary standards, regulatory requirements, and internal governance frameworks
- Oversee compliance with applicable laws and regulations relevant to trust and ESOP administration
- Partner with legal and compliance teams to mitigate risk and maintain strong control environments
- Support Board governance processes, reporting, and documentation
Human Resources & Organizational Development
- Oversee HR strategy including talent acquisition, performance management, compensation, and culture
- Build and develop high-performing teams across all functional areas
- Ensure alignment between organizational structure and strategic priorities
- Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement
Technology & Systems (IT)
- Oversee IT strategy, infrastructure, and systems supporting trust operations and financial management
- Ensure systems are secure, scalable, and aligned with business needs
- Drive digital transformation initiatives to enhance efficiency and client experience
Project & Program Management
- Serve as enterprise project manager across key business initiatives
- Drive execution against strategic initiatives, deliverables, and deadlines
- Coordinate cross-departmental efforts to ensure timely and successful project completion
- Monitor progress, identify risks, and implement corrective actions as needed
Vendor & Partner Management
- Manage relationships with external vendors, advisors, and service providers
- Negotiate contracts and oversee vendor performance against SLAs
- Ensure third-party partners align with company standards for quality, compliance, and cost-efficiency
Qualifications
- Minimum 8+ years of experience in wealth management, trust services, fiduciary services, ESOP administration, or an adjacent financial services vertical
- Proven experience in a senior leadership role with oversight of operations and finance
- Strong knowledge of accounting, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance frameworks
- Experience in ESOP, trust administration, or fiduciary services strongly preferred
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple business functions simultaneously
- Track record of leading complex projects and scaling operational infrastructure
- Exceptional leadership, communication, and decision-making skills
- Experience managing and developing high-performing teams
Preferred Credentials
- CPA, CFA, or MBA strongly preferred
- Experience working with or reporting to Boards and governance committees
- Familiarity with regulatory environments applicable to trust companies and fiduciary institutions
Key Competencies
- Strategic and analytical thinker with strong execution capabilities
- Operational excellence and process optimization mindset
- Financial acumen and risk management expertise
- Strong project management and organizational skills
- Collaborative leadership with high emotional intelligence
- Integrity and commitment to fiduciary responsibility
