Chief Finance Officer (Oxford)

Please submit your CV and cover letter to recruitment@akriviahealth.com by 11th June; applications without covering letters will not be considered.

Who we are

Akrivia Health are global leaders in the application of real-world data & evidence for mental health and dementias, providing valuable insights for research. With the largest and richest repository of real-world data in the world, we enable our clients and collaborators to accelerate clinical trials and to identify, develop and deliver effective new drugs, devices and services to patients and caregivers. We provide our research support and data curation services to the NHS for free, in order to support mental health provision, service improvement and improved patient outcomes across our network. Our Precision Neuroscience Initiative – GlobalMinds – is creating the UK’s largest biobank of patients with mental health conditions to transform research and alleviate disease burden in this area of critical unmet medical needs.

Our Journey

Akrivia Health is a UK-based company specializing in the application of real-world data to advance research in mental health and dementia. Founded in May 2019 as a spin-out from the University of Oxford's Department of Psychiatry, Akrivia Health emerged from the UK Clinical Record Interactive Search (UK-CRIS) program, which began in 2009. The company was co-founded by CEO Mike Denis, COO David Newton, and Professor Sir Simon Lovestone. Throughout its journey, we have maintained strong ties with academic and healthcare institutions, collaborating closely with the University of Oxford and various NHS trusts. Our work demonstrates commitment to harnessing data and technology to drive meaningful advancements in mental health and dementia research.

As we near 50 headcount, we are looking to expand our team to bolster our scale-up phase with individuals who share our passion for making a difference, and our values as an organisation.

Organisational Structure

Our Culture

At Akrivia Health, we offer an exciting opportunity to become part of a dynamic and friendly team dedicated to making a meaningful impact on people’s lives. Our culture is deeply rooted in integrity, respect, collaboration, and trust—values that shape the way we work and interact with one another. We believe that integrity is the foundation of everything we do, ensuring transparency, honesty, and ethical decision-making in all aspects of our work. Respect is at the core of our interactions, fostering an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued and every individual is empowered to contribute their best. Collaboration is key to our success, as we recognise that the best solutions arise from teamwork, shared knowledge, and a commitment to supporting one another. We work together across disciplines, leveraging each team member’s unique strengths to drive innovation and create meaningful change. Trust is the bedrock of our relationships—both within our team and with the communities we serve. We cultivate an environment where individuals feel safe to take initiative, voice their ideas, and grow professionally. At Akrivia Health, we are more than just a company; we are a mission-driven organisation dedicated to improving lives. If you are passionate about making a real difference and thrive in a supportive and forward-thinking environment, we would love to have you join our team.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Financial Leadership
  • Develop and execute the financial strategy to support the company’s goals and expansion plans.
  • Provide financial insights and recommendations to the CEO, Board of Directors, and other stakeholders.
  • Lead long-term financial planning and risk management initiatives.
  • Work with the senior management team, and upskill, to develop robust resource forecasting in line with Akrivia’s growth trajectory.
• Financial Management and Reporting
  • Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial modelling processes.
  • Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting in compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards.
  • Manage cash flow, working capital, and liquidity to support business operations.
  • Develop and monitor key financial performance indicators (KPIs).
• Fundraising and Investor Relations
  • Lead fundraising efforts, including venture capital, private equity, or debt financing as needed.
  • Build and maintain relationships with investors, analysts, and other financial stakeholders.
  • Prepare and present financial reports, forecasts, and updates to the Board of Directors and investors.
• Operational Oversight
  • Supervise finance, accounting, and compliance teams, fostering a culture of accountability and excellence.
  • Evaluate and implement financial systems and tools to improve efficiency and accuracy.
  • Ensure strong internal controls and compliance with tax laws, regulations, and reporting standards.
  • Provide advice and lead on organisation operating models.
• Business Growth and Risk Management
  • Partner with operational and commercial teams to evaluate new business opportunities, partnerships, and market expansions.
  • Assess financial risks and implement mitigation strategies to protect the organisation’s assets and reputation.

Qualifications & Experience

• Essential:
  • Proven experience as a CFO or in a senior financial leadership role within a tech or high-growth environment.
  • Strong track record in financial strategy, forecasting, and planning.
  • Hands-on experience with fundraising, including venture capital or private equity.
  • Excellent knowledge of financial regulations, compliance standards, and reporting frameworks within the UK and US.
  • Exceptional leadership and communication skills, with the ability to influence and inspire teams.
  • Experience acting as Senior Information Risk Owner.
  • Demonstrable experience of working with internal and external stakeholders, at all levels.
  • Strong and demonstrable experience of share options schemes.
  • International experience – US, Canada, Middle East beneficial.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field (MBA or advanced degree preferred).
• CPA, CFA, or equivalent professional qualification is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package, depending on skills and experience.
• Pension scheme with the opportunity to receive employer contributions.
• 25 days annual leave, plus the bank holidays (+3 days after 3 years).
• Health insurance package after probation completion.
• Fantastic learning and development opportunities, including an annual training budget.
• Hybrid working – minimum 2 days per week in offices in Oxford & London.

Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

At Akrivia Health we understand that a diversity of perspectives not only fosters innovation, creativity and learning, but is also crucial for understanding and addressing the challenges in mental health and dementia. We are a committed equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from all individuals, regardless of their race, gender, disability or background. If you require any reasonable adjustments during the interview process, please do let us know so we can make suitable arrangements for you.

Right to work: We have a legal responsibility to ensure that you have the right to work in the UK before you can start working for us. If you do not have the right to work in the UK already, any offer of employment we make to you will be conditional upon you gaining it.

Due to the high volume of applications, we are only able to respond to those selected for interview.

To find out more about us please visit: Akrivia Health - Changing the trajectory of research within neuroscience.