At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising efforts and build relationships with finance partners in the fintech space.
- Company: Join a pioneering fintech startup focused on device subscription infrastructure.
- Benefits: Equity co-founder role with potential for significant ownership and growth.
- Other info: Flexible location; ideal for those ready to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be part of an innovative solution that transforms the retail electronics landscape.
- Qualifications: Senior experience in lending or investment banking; entrepreneurial spirit required.
I’m building Techster — checkout infrastructure that lets independent electronics retailers offer device subscriptions and keep their customers at upgrade, instead of losing them to Amazon, Currys, or the carriers.
The problem
Independent UK electronics retailers sell a device once, then lose the customer at upgrade — usually 24 months later. Acquiring a customer is expensive; the infrastructure to keep them doesn’t exist in this channel. Raylo and Grover proved consumers want device subscriptions. Nobody has built it as infrastructure for retailers.
Where we are — honestly
Early stage. Pre‑seed, pre‑raise, pre‑revenue. The MVP is built and deployed — checkout, subscription management and customer portal, live and demo‑ready. The recent months have gone into building this. Targeting a £750K pre‑seed for September 2026. No signed retailers yet. A scored pipeline of 51 retailer targets and active outreach.
About me
I’m a systems thinker and architect — I designed and built the platform myself. I’m not the natural networker or rainmaker. That’s the gap this role fills. I’m Manchester‑based; location is flexible.
The role
This is the commercial, outward‑facing half of the company:
- Lead the pre‑seed raise — investor outreach, the process, the close.
- Drive finance partner conversations to heads of terms. Specialty lenders fund the devices; this relationship is core to the model.
Who I’m looking for
- Senior background in lending, capital markets, asset finance, consumer credit or investment banking — someone a specialty lender treats as a peer across the table.
- Evidence you’ve built or closed things outside a large institution — founded something, joined something early, or built a desk or product from nothing.
- The career banker who has never left the building isn’t a fit. Neither is the generalist entrepreneur who can’t read a facility term sheet. Grover was led by ex‑Goldman; Raylo’s founders came out of Funding Circle. That’s the type. This is a finance company, not a SaaS company.
You’ll stand out if you have
- Investor relationships you can name — angels or seed funds you could realistically put this in front of.
- Exposure to point‑of‑sale finance, consumer credit, or device/asset leasing.
What’s on offer — read this carefully
- Co‑founder equity with vesting. Meaningful, negotiated openly, and formalised after we’ve worked together for a defined period.
- Equity only. There is no salary until the round closes. If you need income now, this isn’t the right time for you — and that’s fine.
- No commission. I’ve had a number of approaches from people wanting a percentage of the raise, a finder’s fee, or an “advisory for success fee” arrangement. The answer is no, in every form it comes in. If that’s what you’re looking for, please don’t apply.
- Titles are worked out as we go and earned through delivery. If you need a C‑title before contributing, we won’t get along.
Finance/Capital Co-Founder in Manchester employer: ChipIn
Techster is an innovative fintech startup based in Manchester, dedicated to revolutionising the device subscription market for independent electronics retailers. As a co-founder, you will be part of a dynamic and entrepreneurial work culture that values collaboration and creativity, with significant opportunities for personal and professional growth as we build our infrastructure from the ground up. With a focus on equity and a flexible working environment, this role offers a unique chance to shape the future of retail finance while making a meaningful impact in the industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance/Capital Co-Founder in Manchester
✨Show Off Your Expertise Online
In the banking and financial services world, sharing your insights on platforms like LinkedIn can really set you apart. Write articles about market trends or finance tips, and engage in discussions in relevant groups. This not only boosts your visibility but also highlights your knowledge to potential clients.
✨Join Freelance Platforms and Networking Events
Freelancing in finance can be competitive, so make sure you're on platforms like Upwork or Fiverr, specifically targeting finance gigs. Also, look for finance networking events or webinars to connect with small businesses that might need your services. Meeting people face-to-face (or online) can score you those elusive freelance contracts.
✨Build a Stunning Portfolio
Since you're going freelance, having a solid portfolio is a must. Showcase your previous work, such as reports or analyses, and consider using case studies to highlight your approach. The more you can demonstrate your skills, the easier it is for clients to trust you with their finances.
✨Direct Outreach is Key
For freelance gigs, don't wait for opportunities to come to you. Identify companies or startups that align with your skills and reach out directly. A personalised message introducing yourself and proposing how you could add value can go a long way. Plus, keep an eye on ChipIn for freelance opportunities—they might have just what you’re looking for!
We think you need these skills to ace Finance/Capital Co-Founder in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Financial Savvy:When applying for a freelance role in banking and financial services, we need to see your expertise front and centre! Mention specific financial regulations or tools you've mastered, and feel free to include your relevant qualifications, like CFA or ACCA, to bolster your credibility.
Build a Stellar Portfolio:Since this is a freelance gig, your portfolio is your ticket to impressing us at ChipIn. Include examples of past projects you've completed—think financial analyses, investment reports, or forecasting models. Be sure to highlight the results you achieved!
Tailor Your Rates and Availability:We want to see that you're flexible and can align with our needs. Clearly outline your freelance rates, availability for projects, and whether you're open to long-term collaborations or just ad-hoc gigs. This makes it easier for us to understand how we can work together!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express not just your skills, but also why you're excited about joining ChipIn. Share your passion for financial services and how you plan to tackle challenges in this sector. This is your chance to connect on a personal level—make it count!
How to prepare for a job interview at ChipIn
✨Show Off Your Financial Savvy
When you're talking with ChipIn, make sure to highlight your experience with financial modelling, risk assessment, or portfolio management. Freelance work often requires a good level of financial literacy, so prepare to discuss any relevant tools you've used, whether it's Excel or specific financial software.
✨Bring Your Portfolio to Life
A freelance role means you’ll want to showcase your previous work effectively. Put together a portfolio that not only highlights your projects but also demonstrates the outcomes - think case studies or success stories that showcase how your financial skills made a difference for past clients.
✨Know Your Regulations and Compliance
In the banking and financial services world, understanding compliance and regulations is crucial. Make sure you’re up to date with the latest standards as they relate to your expertise. Be prepared for specific questions about how you've navigated these in past roles or how you'd approach potential compliance challenges.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Your Rates and Availability
As a freelancer, the topic of rates and availability can come up early on. Be clear about what you offer and how you charge. It might also help to have a few examples in mind where your expertise saved someone money or improved efficiency to justify your rates to ChipIn.
