Chief Operating Officer - North Asia

Role summary

Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.

The Chief Operating Officer, North Asia is expected to lead regional operating strategy, governance, controls, business planning and execution across North Asian markets. Requirements typically include extensive senior leadership experience in banking or financial services, strong knowledge of operational risk, regulatory obligations, transformation and change management, and a proven record managing complex, multicultural teams. The successful candidate should be commercially aware, decisive and highly collaborative, with excellent communication skills and the ability to influence senior stakeholders. Expectations include improving efficiency, strengthening controls, supporting business growth, overseeing operational resilience and ensuring that ANZ’s policies and regulatory standards are consistently applied across the region.

About the employer

ANZ Bank, formally Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited, is one of Australia’s major banking institutions and has a significant presence across Asia-Pacific. The bank provides retail, commercial and institutional banking, transaction banking, markets, wealth and corporate finance services. ANZ works with individuals, businesses, governments and large institutions, supporting payments, lending, capital markets and international trade. Its Asian operations connect customers with Australia, New Zealand and global markets, with Hong Kong serving as an important financial and regional hub. The organization places strong emphasis on risk management, regulatory compliance, customer outcomes, digital transformation and responsible banking. Employees typically work in a highly regulated, internationally focused environment where collaboration across countries, sound judgment and operational discipline are important.

Working in Hong Kong

Hong Kong offers strong opportunities in banking, asset management, insurance, fintech, professional services, trade and technology. Its financial sector is international and competitive, with many regional roles requiring English and often Cantonese or Mandarin. The culture combines Chinese traditions with global business practices, and workplaces generally value efficiency, hierarchy, relationship building and resilience. Lifestyle is energetic, convenient and urban, with excellent public transport, diverse food, hiking trails and easy access to beaches and nearby islands. Housing is expensive, especially near Central and popular expatriate districts, while public transport is relatively affordable. Most foreign professionals need an employment visa sponsored by an employer; eligibility usually depends on qualifications, experience, salary and the role’s value to Hong Kong. Relocating candidates should budget for deposits, healthcare, schooling if relevant and initial accommodation.