First Circle is an SME-focused, credit-centric, and multi-product NeoBank in SE Asia which is fast-growing (>100%), profitable, and internationalising soon.
We started life as an SME lender in the Philippines in 2016 to solve the SME credit gap by using technology to systemise underwriting, deliver exceptional UX, and automate away delivery costs. We’ve delivered our clients the fastest, cheapest, most flexible credit line available to businesses anywhere in Southeast Asia. We’ve been rewarded with both fast growth and exceptional unit economics, a rare combination in our space.
Over the past two years we’ve expanded our product range to include business bank accounts & payments, e-Invoices, corporate credit cards, rooftop solar, and most recently deposits catalysed by securing a full bank charter in the Philippines. In 2027, we’ll expand our geographical coverage to include at least two new markets in APAC.
Our excellent track record results from our people & culture. We combine high standards & intensity with a collegiate environment. Our barometers of success are the rate of personal growth of our people, how long high performers choose to stay, and ensuring we raise the bar with every hire.
About the Role
We're looking for someone to lead operations for our newest products such as employee salary loans and credit cards. You'll take each product from v1 to something customers love, own its P&L and growth strategy, and build a team of excellent operators as more products come under your ownership. The ideal candidate is a proven operator with strong analytical and problem-solving skills, who has built and managed high-performing teams and is comfortable working through ambiguity with senior stakeholders.
Please note: this role is based in the Philippines. Relocation and sponsorship are available.
Responsibilities
- High degree of exposure to leadership, reporting directly to the Vice President of Ops (ex Uber, ex BCG)
- Lead operations for “new products”, including employee salary loans and credit cards. More products may come under your ownership in the future. These are critical priorities for the business.
- You will be the ultimate owner for these products. You will be responsible for delivering a great user experience, managing the day to day operations for the products, defining and executing the strategy for growth, and taking accountability for P&L.
- Work closely with our tech and product teams, and with all our other teams who can be a part of what it takes to grow your products (sales, marketing, finance, legal etc).
- Sharp focus on user experience, working closely with our tech team to build and enhance our products.
- Define the processes and systems that allow us to operate the product, automating as much as possible.
- Establish strategy to distribute the products, working closely with our existing sales force.
- Build and shape a team of excellent operators, taking on more responsibility and a broader portfolio of products as we launch more and more solutions for our customers.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Economics, Management, STEM or similar field.
- Ideal candidate likely has 5-10 years experience. But we are much more interested in trajectory and potential than years of work experience.
- The candidate will know what it is to operate inside a business (ideally a tech company in a fast-paced environment). Ideally prior experience in consulting or finance.
- Ownership mindset. Takes accountability for business objectives and does whatever it takes to get there.
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills. Ideally has experience with data and analytics tools (e.g. SQL, Python).
- Highly practical. Can take a problem, find a solution, and then make things happen. Able to design efficient systems and processes, with a bias for automation where possible.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and stakeholders in a fast-paced environment.
- Leadership. Can build and shape a team, setting the bar for excellence and helping juniors grow and develop.
Benefits
- Huge potential for professional growth at a rapidly growing fintech
- Hybrid work set-up: at least 2 days per week in our BGC (central Manila) office; remote the rest of the time.
- Benefits: HMO coverage from week one, life and accidental insurance, free catered lunches, monthly fitness, transportation, and accommodation allowance, and more.
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