At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead hands-on company secretarial work and manage end-to-end recruitment processes.
- Company: Dynamic start-up in the blockchain sector with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Health insurance, training allowance, flexible work options, and team events.
- Other info: Join us for a 9-month journey of growth and innovation!
- Why this job: Make a real impact while gaining valuable experience in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Proven hands-on experience in governance and recruitment, with strong stakeholder management skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
This is a fixed-term role, running from early September 2026 until the second week of May 2027. The role exists solely to provide cover during the current post-holder’s maternity leave, with a deliberate overlap at each end to allow a thorough handover in and out.
We are looking for an experienced, hands-on operator to cover a broad, business-critical remit during a period of maternity leave. Reporting directly to the CEO, the role centres on two things: company secretarial and governance work, and end-to-end recruitment. Alongside these, you will manage a direct report, keep project delivery reporting on track, and provide varied support to the leadership team. This is a delivery role, not a strategic oversight one. You will be doing the work yourself day to day — administering share options, preparing board papers, running hiring processes, building meeting materials — rather than directing others to do it.
Company secretarial & governance (core): You will personally:
- Administer the company’s share options end to end — approvals, allocations and valuation reports — including day-to-day management in Vestd.
- Prepare and file the annual confirmation statement.
- Prepare board packs and coordinate and minute board meetings.
- Produce and issue shareholder updates.
- Handle non-standard governance and legal matters, coordinating directly between the CEO, external legal advisers and other stakeholders.
Recruitment (core): Own the recruitment process hands-on from start to finish — drafting and posting roles, screening and coordinating candidates, managing interviews and offers, and liaising with hiring managers.
People management: Line-manage and support the development of a direct report.
Delivery reporting: Run project delivery reporting to the CEO in a portfolio format, including chairing calls with project managers and other stakeholders and holding regular check-ins with the CEO. (Reporting is produced using our AI-assisted portfolio management tooling — training provided.)
Executive & administrative support: Take on the varied hands-on tasks that keep things running, such as preparing team and management meeting materials and other ad-hoc support for the leadership team.
Benefits:
- Health insurance.
- Annual allowance for training — you can use 50% of the value for your home workstation.
- 5 days/per year for training.
- Flexible and hybrid work options.
- Company equipment and onboarding kit.
- In-person fun team events/team buildings every 3 months.
- Stock option plan.
- Birthday off and gift voucher.
- Amazing referral programme.
- Annual bonus (dependent on company and personal performance).
It suits a capable all-rounder who is genuinely energised by hands-on execution and can pick up a varied workload quickly and run with it independently. Strong stakeholder management, with the confidence and discretion to work directly with the CEO, board members, shareholders and external legal advisers. Right to work in the UK (Applied Blockchain does not offer visa sponsorship). Direct, hands-on recruitment experience — running end-to-end hiring processes yourself, not just overseeing a team or an agency. Comfortable adopting new tools and ways of working, including AI-based tools. Available for the full fixed-term period, from early September 2026 to mid-May 2027. A genuine all-rounder who is happy switching between senior governance matters and practical administrative tasks on the same day. Hands-on company secretarial and governance experience is essential — including share option administration (approvals, allocations, valuation reports), confirmation statements, board meeting preparation and minuting, and shareholder communications. You should be confident doing this work yourself, unsupported. Experience line-managing and developing a direct report. A self-starter who can build context quickly and work autonomously with minimal ramp-up. Experience with Vestd for share option management. Experience working alongside finance, operations and people teams. Experience or interest in the blockchain and/or AI sectors.
Start-up Chief Operating Officer (9 Month Fixed Term Contract, Maternity Leave) in London employer: Applied Blockchain
Applied Blockchain is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the rapidly evolving blockchain sector. With generous benefits such as a £1000 annual training allowance, regular team-building events, and opportunities for personal growth, employees are encouraged to thrive both professionally and personally. Located in London, the company provides a dynamic environment where ambitious individuals can build strong client relationships and advance their careers in a supportive setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Start-up Chief Operating Officer (9 Month Fixed Term Contract, Maternity Leave) in London
✨Leverage Your Network
Tap into your existing network in corporate circles—friends, former colleagues, or even acquaintances from industry events. A temporary role often isn't widely advertised, so having someone inside a company like Applied Blockchain can give you the inside scoop or even a referral.
✨Stay Alert for Short-term Opportunities
Many corporate leadership roles are filled during peak business cycles or project launches. Keep your eyes peeled for announcements or staffing needs from companies like Applied Blockchain; they might be looking for temporary support during busy times.
✨Showcase Your Flexibility
In temporary roles, adaptability is key. When you're chatting with potential employers, emphasise your ability to quickly adjust to new challenges and demands. Highlight specific instances where you've successfully managed change or stepped into new projects on short notice.
✨Join Corporate Management Forums
Get involved in online corporate management forums or local business groups. Networking in these spaces can help you discover temporary opportunities as well as gather insights about industry trends. Plus, being active in these communities can help you establish yourself as a knowledgeable candidate when applying to places like Applied Blockchain.
We think you need these skills to ace Start-up Chief Operating Officer (9 Month Fixed Term Contract, Maternity Leave) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Leadership Experience:For a role in corporate leadership management, it’s crucial to emphasise your past leadership experiences. Mention specific projects where you led teams or initiatives, detailing the outcomes and skills you developed. This shows that you understand what it takes to guide a team and deliver results.
Show Your Adaptability for Temporary Roles:Since this is a temporary position, employers will be looking for someone who can hit the ground running. In your cover letter, explain why you're interested in a temporary role at Applied Blockchain and how your previous experience equips you to adapt quickly to new challenges.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any certifications in project management, team leadership, or similar areas, definitely include them in your CV. These credentials can set you apart from other applicants, showing you’re not just qualified but also committed to your professional growth.
Tailor Your CV to the Company Culture:Take some time to research Applied Blockchain's values and leadership style. Adjust your CV language and examples to reflect their culture, demonstrating that you're not only a good fit for the job itself but for the organisation as a whole. This adds a personal touch that can really make your application stand out.
How to prepare for a job interview at Applied Blockchain
✨Show Off Your Leadership Stories
For a temporary role in corporate leadership management, we want to hear your stories! Think of specific examples where you’ve led teams or projects successfully, particularly under tight deadlines or challenging situations. This isn't just about what you did, but how your actions positively impacted the team or the business.
✨Be Ready for Situational Questions
Expect situational interview questions where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving and decision-making skills. Think of common scenarios in corporate settings, like managing a conflict or implementing a new strategy, and practice articulating your thought process and outcomes. This will help show off your ability to navigate corporate complexities.
✨Talk Strategy, Not Just Tasks
In a temporary leadership role, understanding the bigger picture is crucial. Brush up on strategic management principles and be prepared to discuss how you can quickly adapt and contribute to the company's objectives. Consider how you would initiate change or drive efficiency within a limited time frame—this will show that you're ready to hit the ground running!
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Adaptability
Given the temporary nature of this position, we need to see how adaptable you are! Think of examples where you've had to adjust your leadership style or approach based on team dynamics or company culture. We want to know how you can blend in quickly while still making an impact during a short-term engagement.
