Chief Operating Officer

Chief Operating Officer (DV Cleared – Defence)

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

• Pan-European remit with regular travel (UK & Europe)
• DV / SC clearance required
• Foundational role in a new, well-funded Defence capability

ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY

We are supporting a discreet, well‑capitalised Defence venture at a critical early stage of growth. Operating across the UK, Europe and NATO‑aligned environments, the organisation is focused on developing sovereign capability in response to emerging strategic threats.

This is a rare opportunity to step into a foundational leadership role, working alongside an experienced founder, to shape how the organisation operates within highly regulated, classified and multi‑national Defence environments.

THE BENEFITS

• Equity participation aligned to long‑term growth
• High‑autonomy, high‑impact leadership role
• Direct exposure to senior Defence and government stakeholders
• Opportunity to shape a capability from first principles

THE CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER ROLE

As Chief Operating Officer, you will take ownership of operational execution across a complex, multi‑national Defence programme. Acting as the bridge between strategy and delivery, you will establish the frameworks, governance and relationships required to operate effectively within classified environments.

This includes enabling secure programme delivery, navigating cross‑border Defence engagement, and ensuring the organisation is positioned within the right institutional conversations across the UK, Europe and NATO. You will play a critical role in translating ambition into executable, compliant and credible Defence capability.

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER ESSENTIAL SKILLS

• Active or recently held UK DV or SC clearance
• Track record operating within classified and regulated environments
• Established relationships within government, Defence organisations or NATO
• Experience navigating procurement, governance and export‑controlled environments
• Ability to operate credibly at board and programme level

TO BE CONSIDERED

Due to the sensitive nature of this opportunity, further details will be shared on a confidential basis.

Please express interest via will.roebuck@searchability.com or call 0117 284 0050 for an initial discussion.

KEY SKILLS

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