At a Glance
- Tasks: Build the operating system for a cutting-edge deep-tech startup in space and defence.
- Company: Venture-backed business with a focus on innovation and growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, equity opportunities, and a chance to shape company culture.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for career growth in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Directly influence the company's future while working alongside visionary founders.
- Qualifications: Experience in startups or consulting, with a knack for building structure.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 € per year.
Our client is a venture-backed deep-tech business working across space and defence — space domain awareness, on-orbit systems, next-generation sensors and counter-UAS. We're backed by experienced institutional investors and supported by a board with deep sector credibility. We're at an inflection point. The business is scaling out of its earliest phase and we need the person who builds the operating system around it.
This is a high-trust role sitting directly alongside the founders. You'll own the shift from founder-led improvisation to a deliberate, well-run company — standing up our Manchester office, building core policies and platforms, running board pack and investor rhythms, and progressively taking on the operational load the CEO currently carries.
What you’ll own:
- Manchester office standup — lease, fit-out, security, suppliers
- Core policies and platforms: HR, IT, security, procurement, expenses
- Project visibility and ways of working across the team
- Cyber security baseline and access management
- Board packs, investor materials and contract administration
- Inbound triage — commercial opportunities, candidates, partners
- People and culture foundations alongside our leadership team
Who we’re looking for:
An unusually capable generalist who is energised by building structure where none exists. You'll have experience in an early-stage startup, founders' office, or top-tier consulting environment — and be able to point to something specific you built that the organisation now runs on. Given our sector, we need someone with high personal standards on confidentiality, judgement and discretion. Familiarity with Cyber Essentials and government or defence contracting hygiene is a genuine plus. Manchester-based or strongly willing to be.
Why this role:
You’ll see and shape every part of the business — commercial, technical, financial and cultural — at the moment it scales. There is a genuine path to broader operational leadership over time, and the equity case that goes with it.
Founders Associate - Manchester employer: Foundation Partners
Join a pioneering venture-backed deep-tech business in Manchester, where you'll play a crucial role in shaping the operational backbone of a rapidly scaling company. With a high-trust work culture that values your input alongside the founders, you'll benefit from unique growth opportunities and the chance to influence every aspect of the business while enjoying the support of experienced investors and a collaborative team environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Founders Associate - Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, especially those connected to the company you're eyeing. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by understanding the company's mission and values. Tailor your responses to show how your skills align with their goals, especially in areas like operational structure and team culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your adaptability! In a fast-paced environment like this, being able to pivot and build processes from scratch is key. Share specific examples of how you've done this in past roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step.
We think you need these skills to ace Founders Associate - Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Deep-Tech:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the deep-tech sector shine through. We want to see that you’re not just looking for any job, but that you’re genuinely excited about working in space and defence. Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your interest!
Be Specific About Your Experience:We’re looking for someone who can point to specific examples of what they’ve built in previous roles. Don’t just list your responsibilities; tell us about a project you led or a system you implemented that made a real difference. This will help us see how you can contribute to our growth.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to tailor your application to the role of Founders Associate. Highlight your generalist skills and how they align with the needs of our startup. Mention your familiarity with policies and platforms, as well as any experience in early-stage environments — this is key for us!
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 it gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us that you’re proactive and keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Foundation Partners
✨Know the Company Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the company's mission, values, and recent projects. Understanding their work in space and defence will show your genuine interest and help you connect your experience to their needs.
✨Showcase Your Generalist Skills
As a Founders Associate, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to build structure in a fast-paced environment. Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully implemented processes or systems in previous roles, especially in startups or consulting.
✨Emphasise Confidentiality and Discretion
Given the sensitive nature of the industry, be ready to discuss how you've handled confidential information in the past. Highlight your judgement and discretion to reassure them that you can be trusted with critical data.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's future direction, culture, and operational challenges. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company aligns with your values and career goals.
