At a Glance
- Tasks: Bridge strategy and execution, managing partnerships and shaping product direction.
- Company: Valteros, a cutting-edge defence startup in London focused on AI technology.
- Benefits: Equity potential, hands-on experience, and direct collaboration with the CEO.
- Other info: Join a £2M pre-seed startup with significant growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Tackle NATO threats and make a real impact in national security.
- Qualifications: 0-5 years of experience, proactive mindset, and interest in defence.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Valteros is a London-based pre-seed defence startup that recently closed a £2M pre-seed round to build multi-agent modelling platforms. We are creating advanced AI technology at the intersection of information warfare and democratic resilience, addressing emerging NATO threats through sophisticated simulations of narrative spread and adversarial behaviour.
Join Valteros as a Founders Associate working directly with the CEO to combat information warfare. In this high-agency generalist role, you will bridge the gap between strategy and execution, managing everything from commercial partnerships with government entities to shaping product direction and internal operations for a mission-critical defence technology company.
Location: London / Oxford, UK
Why this role is remarkable:
- Work on technology addressing one of NATO's recognised emerging threats, building multi-agent platforms that model narrative spread and adversarial behaviour to protect democratic resilience.
- Join at the ground floor of a £2M pre-seed startup with significant equity potential and direct visibility into every aspect of scaling a mission-driven defence company.
- Collaborate directly with the founder in a role that prioritises high agency and impact, where you will solve complex problems across strategy, operations, and product.
What You Will Do:
- Execute across the commercial landscape by leading high-stakes conversations and developing strategic partnerships with government agencies and national security partners.
- Drive product direction and internal operational efficiency by identifying critical bottlenecks and implementing scalable systems without waiting for direct instruction.
- Context-switch between high-level strategic planning and boots-on-the-ground execution to ensure the company meets its milestones in a fast-paced defence environment.
The Ideal Candidate:
- Demonstrates 0–5 years of experience with exceptional intellectual horsepower and the ability to thrive in a high-agency, generalist environment where initiative is the primary driver.
- Possesses a genuine interest in defence and national security, with the legal eligibility (UK, EU, or US national) required to obtain UK security clearance.
- Available to start in London or Oxford by August or September 2026, bringing a proactive mindset to build a generational company from the ground up.
Founders Associate (+ Equity) at Valteros in London employer: Jack & Jill
At Jack & Jill, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and innovative work culture. Our team enjoys a range of benefits including flexible working arrangements, professional development opportunities, and a collaborative environment that encourages creativity and growth. Located in a vibrant area, we offer unique advantages such as access to cutting-edge technology and the chance to work with industry leaders in AI-driven marketing strategies.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Founders Associate (+ Equity) at Valteros in London
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We think you need these skills to ace Founders Associate (+ Equity) at Valteros in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Entrepreneurial Spirit:When applying for a role in startups and entrepreneurship, it's crucial to highlight any experience you have with starting your own projects or businesses. We love seeing examples of your initiative, so sprinkle in stories of how you’ve taken risks or solved problems creatively—this is what makes you stand out!
Tailor Your CV for Impact:In the startup world, your CV should reflect not just your experience, but the impact you've made. Use quantifiable achievements to show your contributions, like percentage increases in growth or revenue. Remember, we’re looking for go-getters who know how to get results!
Craft a Provocative Cover Letter:Your cover letter is a chance to showcase your passion and motivation for working at Jack & Jill. Don't just list your skills—share your vision and what excites you about the entrepreneurial journey. Connect your personal aspirations with what we need, and let your enthusiasm shine through!
Keep Your Portfolio Handy:If you have a portfolio showcasing any past projects or entrepreneurial efforts, definitely mention it in your application. Though not always necessary for full-time roles, it can provide us with deeper insights into your work style and creativity. If you have a blog, products, or any innovation, we'd love to see it!
How to prepare for a job interview at Jack & Jill
✨Show Your Entrepreneurial Spirit
In startups, they love seeing passion and initiative. Be ready to share any personal projects or ideas you've worked on. This shows you’re not just about the 9-to-5, but you’re invested in creating value, which is key in this fast-paced environment.
✨Brush Up on Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect to be thrown some curveballs during the interview—startups often face unexpected challenges. Having a couple of examples up your sleeve where you’ve creatively solved problems will really impress them. It's all about how you think on your feet!
✨Know Your Stuff About the Industry
Since you're applying for a full-time role, they’ll want to see you've done your homework. Make sure you understand where the startup stands in its industry, including competitors and market trends. It’s a great way to show you're genuinely interested and can contribute from day one.
✨Show Flexibility and Adaptability
Startups can pivot quickly, so highlight your adaptability. Share examples of when you've successfully navigated change or taken on roles outside your comfort zone. This shows you’re ready for whatever comes your way, which is crucial in a startup atmosphere!