At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape financial strategy and operations during a pivotal growth phase.
- Company: Innovative tech company focused on applied AI in the energy sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunity for professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a fast-growing team and make a real impact in the AI and energy industries.
- Qualifications: Qualified accountant with 8+ years of finance experience in high-growth environments.
- Other info: Hands-on role with excellent career advancement opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
About Applied Computing
Applied Computing builds foundation models for the most valuable and consequential sectors on the planet, all within the energy chain. We came out of stealth less than a year ago and have already seen exceptional success. We’re now looking to grow our team with world‑class minds who are driven to grow into the best version of themselves and to put their shoulder behind the wheel of applied AI.
The Role
We are seeking an experienced Interim Finance Director to join our leadership team during a pivotal growth phase. This maternity cover position offers the opportunity to shape financial strategy and operations as we scale following our successful Series A funding round. You’ll work closely with the CEO, leadership team and board, taking ownership of all financial, legal and people operations while building the infrastructure needed to support our next phase of growth. This is a hands‑on role that combines strategic thinking with operational execution.
Job Requirements
Essential Experience- Qualified accountant (ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent)
- 8+ years of progressive finance experience with at least 3 years in a senior finance role
- Proven experience in high‑growth technology or start‑up environments, ideally post Series A
- Strong understanding of venture capital funding dynamics and investor expectations
- Strong understanding of commercial and legal structuring and risk management process
- Track record of building financial processes and systems from the ground up in multiple jurisdictions (experience with the US is a plus)
- Strategic thinker with strong commercial acumen
- Hands‑on and comfortable working in a fast‑paced, ambiguous environment
- Excellent communication skills with ability to translate complex financial information for non‑financial stakeholders
- Confident working with senior leadership and boards
- Adaptable and pragmatic problem‑solver
- Strong technical accounting knowledge combined with business partnering skills
- Experience supporting fundraising rounds (Series B or beyond)
- Knowledge of SaaS metrics and unit economics
- Experience in AI and energy industry is a plus
Job Responsibilities
Financial Leadership & Strategy- Own the company’s financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting processes
- Provide strategic financial insights to support business decisions and growth initiatives
- Develop and monitor key financial metrics and KPIs
- Prepare board reports and materials for investor updates
- Support the CEO in fundraising activities and investor relations
- Manage day‑to‑day financial operations including accounting, payroll, and cash management in the UK and India
- Help us set up subsidiaries in the US and Qatar
- Ensure timely and accurate monthly management accounts
- Oversee structuring of key contracts with customers, investors, employees and services providers (with the help of legal counsel)
- Oversee compliance with all regulatory and statutory requirements
- Manage relationships with external accountants, auditors, legal and tax advisors
- Implement and refine financial controls and processes to support scaling
- Act as interim People leader while we are recruiting a dedicated person to take over
- Lead and develop the finance and cyber team (6 FTE and one part‑time legal counsel, further 2 FTEs in plan in 2026)
- Drive improvements in financial systems and reporting infrastructure
- Establish scalable processes and frameworks for the next growth phase
Interim Finance Director (mat cover) employer: Applied Computing
Contact Detail:
Applied Computing Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Finance Director (mat cover)
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the finance and tech sectors. Attend industry events, webinars, or even local meetups. You never know who might have a lead on your next big opportunity!
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, don’t hold back! Share specific examples of how you've tackled challenges in previous roles, especially in high-growth environments. This will help them see you as the perfect fit for their team.
✨Tailor Your Approach
Every company is different, so make sure you tailor your pitch to match their vibe. Research Applied Computing and understand their mission in the energy sector. Show them how your experience aligns with their goals and values.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our team at Applied Computing.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Finance Director (mat cover)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Financial Flair: When you're crafting your application, make sure to highlight your financial expertise. We want to see how your experience aligns with our needs, especially in high-growth tech environments. Don't hold back on showcasing your strategic thinking and hands-on approach!
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect the specific skills and experiences that match the job description. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their background with what we're looking for, especially in areas like venture capital and financial operations.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, especially when it comes to complex financial concepts. Make it easy for us to see your qualifications without wading through unnecessary fluff!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it shows us you’re keen to be part of our journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at Applied Computing
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Interim Finance Director, you'll need to demonstrate a solid grasp of financial metrics and KPIs. Brush up on the key financial indicators relevant to Applied Computing's growth phase, especially those tied to venture capital funding and SaaS metrics. Be ready to discuss how you've used these metrics to drive strategic decisions in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
This role requires a strategic mindset, so prepare examples that highlight your ability to think critically about financial planning and budgeting. Think about times when your insights led to significant business decisions or improvements. Make sure you can articulate how you would approach financial strategy in a high-growth tech environment.
✨Communicate Clearly
You'll be working with non-financial stakeholders, so practice translating complex financial concepts into simple terms. During the interview, focus on your communication skills by explaining your past experiences in a way that anyone could understand. This will show that you're not just a numbers person but also a team player who can bridge gaps.
✨Be Hands-On and Adaptable
Given the fast-paced nature of the role, be prepared to discuss your hands-on experience in finance operations. Share specific instances where you had to adapt quickly to changes or challenges in a startup environment. Highlight your problem-solving skills and how you've built financial processes from scratch, especially in multiple jurisdictions.