Head of Exchange Operations

  • Headquarters
  • Operations
  • FullTime

In 2018, Bitvavo launched the first version of its digital assets trading platform, to bridge the gap between traditional currencies and digital assets. By offering transparent fees, a wide range of assets and an easy to use platform, Bitvavo is making the currency of the future accessible for everyone.

In two years' time, Bitvavo has established itself as the market leader in the Netherlands and one of the largest in Europe, with over one million users exchanging tens of billions of digital assets a year.

Our team, located in Amsterdam, is looking for self-driven, talented people who can help make digital assets available for everyone.

About the Opportunity

Bitvavo is on a mission to make digital assets accessible to everyone by offering a secure, transparent, and easy-to-use trading platform. As one of the fastest-growing digital asset exchanges in Europe, we are expanding our Operations department to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of our trading platform.

If you are a strategic leader passionate about financial markets, have a keen eye for detail, and thrive in fast-paced, high-stakes environments, this role is for you.

As the Head of Exchange Operations, you will be responsible for leading, managing, and optimizing the overall operations of the Bitvavo exchange. You will oversee the Market Operations and Exchange Monitoring teams, ensuring the stability, integrity, and efficiency of our trading infrastructure. You will be responsible for strategic planning, team development, process improvement, and risk management within the Operations department.

Working closely with our Product, Engineering, Business Development, and Customer Support teams, you will act as a key leader in safeguarding market operations and delivering a seamless trading experience for our users.

What You’ll Be Doing

  • Lead and manage the Market Operations and Exchange Monitoring teams, providing guidance, mentorship, and performance management.

  • Develop and implement operational strategies, policies, and procedures to ensure efficient and effective operations.

  • Oversee real-time trading activity monitoring and ensure smooth market operations, identifying and addressing any abnormalities (latency issues, liquidity gaps, unexpected trading behaviors, etc.).

  • Manage the market lifecycle for all markets listed on the Exchange, including listing new markets, adjusting configurations, and delisting existing markets.

  • Establish and maintain robust exchange management processes to investigate and resolve operational incidents, including order mismatches, system delays, and market anomalies.

  • Ensure the execution of market interventions, such as trading halts, circuit breaker triggers, and order cancellations when required, following internal risk guidelines.

  • Track and analyze liquidity and market health metrics, providing regular reports and insights to senior management.

  • Oversee the integration and operational support of liquidity providers and institutional clients.

  • Collaborate with Engineering and Product teams to report, diagnose, and resolve technical issues impacting trading.

  • Develop, maintain, and improve operational runbooks, workflows, and escalation procedures for faster issue resolution.

  • Drive continuous improvement in operations tooling, system reliability, and process efficiency.

  • Manage departmental resources effectively.

  • Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and internal policies.

What We Look For

  • 5+ years of experience in a senior market operations, trading support, or exchange-related leadership role (crypto, equities, FX, or commodities).

  • Proven track record of leading and managing high-performing teams.

  • Strong understanding of financial markets, trading mechanisms, and market microstructure.

  • Extensive experience with real-time monitoring tools and trading platforms.

  • Deep familiarity with exchange operations; order books, market data feeds, matching engines, and trade execution processes.

  • Excellent strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

  • Ability to analyze complex trading behaviors and market conditions in high-pressure situations.

  • Experience managing resources effectively.

  • Ability to work in a fast-paced 24/7 environment and manage on-call responsibilities.

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills to coordinate effectively across teams and with senior management.

  • Knowledge of relevant regulations and compliance requirements in the financial industry.

At Bitvavo, we believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation, foster creativity, and lead to better outcomes. We are committed to building a team that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve and creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. Regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, ability, or any other characteristic. Join us and be part of a team that values and celebrates your unique contributions.

Bitvavo does not accept resumes from staffing, search, or recruitment firms without a signed agreement. If you send us a resume without such an agreement, we may contact the candidate directly without any obligation whatsoever and no fee of any kind will be paid should we hire the candidate.

What We Offer

At Bitvavo, we believe in attracting, motivating and retaining talented people through market-competitive offerings that go beyond compensation alone. To learn more about our total rewards package and the benefits we offer, visit our Life at Bitvavo page.