Chief Operating Officer

Prodigy Research Job Description: Chief Operating Officer (COO)Company: Prodigy Research Position Title: Chief Operating Officer (COO) Location: United States Work Arrangement: Remote Employment Type: Full-Time Reports To: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) About Prodigy ResearchProdigy Research is an AI research company focused on quantitative finance, developing advanced foundation models and autonomous AI systems for trading and financial market research. The company combines artificial intelligence, quantitative analysis, and financial technology to explore new approaches to market research and trading. Position OverviewThe Chief Operating Officer (COO) will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for overseeing business operations, translating strategic objectives into actionable operating plans, and establishing the organizational processes necessary to support sustainable growth. This executive will work closely with the CEO and other senior leaders to strengthen operational effectiveness, coordinate cross-functional initiatives, optimize resource allocation, and improve organizational performance. The COO will help build scalable operating structures, establish performance standards, and ensure that the company's strategic priorities are executed efficiently across business functions. Key ResponsibilitiesExecutive Leadership & Strategic Execution Partner with the CEO to develop and execute company-wide business strategies, operational priorities, and long-term growth plans. Translate corporate objectives into measurable operating plans, milestones, and key performance indicators (KPIs). Provide executive-level oversight of business operations and ensure alignment between organizational priorities and day-to-day execution. Identify opportunities to improve organizational effectiveness, operational discipline, and business scalability. Support executive decision-making through operational analysis, performance reviews, and strategic recommendations. Business Operations & Organizational Management Oversee core business operations and establish efficient workflows, operating procedures, and management practices. Develop scalable operational frameworks to support business expansion and evolving organizational needs. Monitor operational performance, identify inefficiencies, and implement continuous improvement initiatives. Coordinate cross-functional projects to ensure timely execution of strategic initiatives. Establish clear accountability, decision-making processes, and communication standards across teams. Financial & Resource Management Collaborate with the finance function and executive leadership to support annual budgeting, resource planning, and operational forecasting. Monitor operating costs, resource utilization, and performance against established business objectives. Evaluate operational investments and resource allocation priorities to improve efficiency and support long-term growth. Work with relevant leaders to assess business performance, manage operating risks, and identify opportunities for sustainable profitability. Ensure operational decisions are supported by reliable reporting and appropriate performance metrics. Team Leadership & Talent Development Build, develop, and lead high-performing operational teams and management functions. Establish clear performance expectations, leadership accountability, and professional development priorities. Support organizational design, workforce planning, and talent development in collaboration with relevant leaders. Foster a culture of ownership, collaboration, transparency, and continuous improvement. Mentor managers and department leaders to strengthen execution capabilities and leadership effectiveness. Process Optimization & Operational Infrastructure Evaluate existing business processes and implement improvements that enhance efficiency, consistency, and scalability. Oversee the development of operational policies, internal controls, reporting mechanisms, and management systems. Collaborate with technical and research teams to improve coordination between research priorities, technology development, and business operations. Promote data-driven management practices and the effective use of operational analytics. Ensure that internal processes can adapt to changing business requirements and organizational growth. Risk Management & Governance Work with executive leadership and relevant specialists to identify operational risks and develop appropriate mitigation strategies. Support the implementation of internal policies, procedures, and governance frameworks. Promote sound documentation, reporting, and operational oversight practices. Coordinate with relevant stakeholders to address business continuity, operational resilience, and compliance-related matters. Escalate significant operational issues and provide recommendations to senior leadership. QualificationsBachelor's degree in Business Administration, Management, Finance, Economics, or a related field; an advanced degree is preferred. Significant experience in senior operations management, business leadership, or executive-level organizational management. Demonstrated ability to develop operational strategies and translate business objectives into measurable results. Proven experience leading cross-functional teams and managing complex business initiatives. Strong understanding of budgeting, resource allocation, operational performance, and business planning. Experience building scalable processes, improving organizational efficiency, and supporting business growth. Excellent leadership, communication, analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, evolving business environment. Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage competing priorities while maintaining strategic focus. Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with a geographically distributed team. Preferred QualificationsExperience working with technology-driven companies, research organizations, quantitative businesses, or high-growth startups. Familiarity with data-driven decision-making, performance measurement frameworks, and process automation. Experience supporting organizational scaling, operational transformation, or new business initiatives. An established track record of improving operational efficiency and strengthening management systems. Work EnvironmentThis is a U.S.-based remote position. The COO will collaborate virtually with the CEO, senior leadership, and cross-functional teams to coordinate priorities, monitor performance, and support the company's strategic and operational objectives. The successful candidate should be comfortable leading distributed teams, managing executive-level responsibilities remotely, and maintaining clear communication across functions and time zones. Core Competencies Executive Leadership Strategic Planning and Execution Business Operations Management Organizational Development Cross-Functional Leadership Financial and Resource Planning Operational Excellence Performance Management and KPIs Process Improvement Risk Management Team Development Data-Driven Decision-Making Equal Employment OpportunityProdigy Research is committed to fostering a professional and inclusive working environment. Employment decisions should be based on relevant qualifications, demonstrated capabilities, business needs, and applicable employment laws.