Chief Administrative Officer (CAO)

Job Description

The CAO will oversee critical support functions including Financial Control Department, Secretarial work, Property & Contract Services (PCS), Information & Compliance Office (ICO), and Legal operations. This role serves as a strategic executive leader responsible for orchestrating and integrating all critical support functions that form the operational backbone of the organization. This role enables the Managing Director to focus on strategic platform development, organizational efficiency initiatives, and staff mentorship while ensuring operational excellence across support departments.

Missions

• Operational Leadership (40%)
• Provide strategic direction and day-to-day oversight of Finance, Secretarial, PCS, ICO, and Legal departments
• Ensure seamless coordination between support functions and operational platforms
• Drive operational efficiency improvements and implement best practices across departments
• Establish and monitor KPIs for each department to ensure service level excellence
• Manage departmental budgets and resource allocation
• Compliance & Risk Management (25%)
• Oversee regulatory compliance across all support functions
• Ensure adherence to corporate governance standards and statutory requirements
• Coordinate with ICO on data protection, privacy, and information security matters
• Monitor legal and regulatory developments affecting the organization
• Maintain risk registers and implement mitigation strategies
• Process Efficiency, Simplification & Controls (20%)
• Design and implement internal controls across Finance, PCS, and Legal operations
• Standardize processes and procedures to enhance efficiency and reduce errors
• Lead automation and digitization initiatives
• Ensure robust audit trails and documentation standards
• Coordinate internal and external audit activities
• Strategic Support & Collaboration (15%)
• Partner with MD on new platform setup requirements from operational perspective
• Provide operational insights to inform strategic decision-making
• Support cross-functional projects requiring multi-departmental coordination
• Act as escalation point for complex operational or compliance issues
• Representing the organization in relevant external forums and with regulatory bodies
  
  

Complément

• Required Experience
• Minimum 10-15 years relevant experience in banking set up in Finance and Administration functions
• At least 5 years in mid-level / senior management with multi-departmental oversight
• Proven track record managing support functions in complex organizations
• Experience with regulatory compliance and corporate governance frameworks
• Background in process improvement and change management
• Required Soft Skills
• Knowledge of financial management, accounting principles, and controls
• Knowledge of corporate secretarial requirements and company law
• Familiarity with procurement, contract management, and vendor relations
• Understanding of data protection regulations (GDPR/equivalent)
• Proficiency in ERP systems, compliance software, and MS Office Suite
  
  

Application criteria

Company Crédit Agricole CIB

About Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank (Crédit Agricole CIB)

Crédit Agricole CIB is the corporate and investment bank of the Crédit Agricole group, the 10th largest banking group in the world *.

We support major companies and financial institutions in their development and the financing of their projects.

As pioneers in responsible finance, social and environmental commitments are at the heart of our activities.

Joining our teams means working in a multicultural environment, both dynamic and stimulating, where you will contribute to developing a sustainable economy.

We support employees throughout their journey: you will develop your skills and access various mobility opportunities among the diversity of our businesses in more than 30 international locations.

Our culture is built on collaboration, innovation and openness, where everyone is valued and empowered.

By working every day in the interest of society, Crédit Agricole CIB aligns with the Group values committed to diversity and inclusion and placing people at the heart of all its transformations.

All our jobs are open to people with disabilities. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.

Ready to take part in our mission ?

• By balance sheet size - The Banker, Juillet 2025