At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial operations and build a world-class finance team in a pioneering quantum computing company.
- Company: Join Riverlane, the leader in quantum error correction technology, driving human progress.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, equity options, comprehensive benefits, and a hybrid work model.
- Other info: Dynamic workplace with diverse talent and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the financial future of a groundbreaking tech company and collaborate with top scientists.
- Qualifications: Professional finance qualification and 5-8 years in high-growth tech environments.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
About us
Riverlane's mission is to master quantum error correction (QEC) and unlock a new age of human progress. From advances in material and climate science to complex chemistry simulation for new drug design, quantum computers will help humanity solve some of its most important challenges. But without QEC, the industry's defining technical challenge, such breakthroughs can never be achieved. Riverlane is the world leader in QEC technology.
The Opportunity
We're seeking an exceptional Financial Director to partner with our CFO in building world-class financial operations for a scaling deep tech company. This is a rare opportunity to shape the financial foundation of a quantum computing leader during a pivotal growth phase, working at the intersection of cutting-edge science and commercial scale-up.
Key Responsibilities
- Financial Planning & Analysis
- Build an FP&A function, developing sophisticated financial models to support strategic decision-making in a complex business.
- Own the annual budgeting and quarterly reforecasting processes across multiple cost centers and international operations.
- Build comprehensive reporting frameworks for board meetings and investor communications.
- Develop scenario planning models for various growth trajectories and funding paths.
- Develop pricing models and commercial frameworks for QEC solutions.
- Build revenue forecasting capabilities for a complex, emerging technology market.
- Partner with commercial teams on contract structuring and deal economics.
- Financial Operations & Control
- Build scalable financial processes and systems to support 3x headcount growth in coming years.
- Enhance financial controls and governance frameworks appropriate for a unicorn-stage business.
- Partner with accounting teams to ensure accurate and timely financial close processes.
- Implement financial systems and tools to improve efficiency and insight.
- Team Leadership
- Build and develop a high-performing finance team across Financial Operations, FP&A and business partnering functions.
- Act as a trusted advisor to business unit leaders across research, engineering, commercial, and operations.
- Foster a culture of financial literacy and data-driven decision-making across the organization.
Required Experience & Qualifications
- Essential: ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent professional qualification.
- 5-8 years of progressive finance experience; strong controller attributes (50% of experience) alongside more recent FP&A experience (50% of experience).
- Proven track record in high-growth, venture-backed technology companies (Series A through D).
- Deep expertise in financial modelling, forecasting, and scenario planning.
- Demonstrated ability to build financial processes and systems from the ground up.
- Strong commercial acumen and ability to translate complex technical concepts into financial frameworks.
Highly Desirable
- Experience in deep tech, R&D focused business models.
- International finance experience across multiple jurisdictions.
- Exposure to quantum computing, semiconductors, or adjacent advanced technology sectors.
- Cambridge or London location, able to commute.
Personal Attributes
- Intellectually curious with the ability to quickly grasp complex technical concepts.
- Resilient problem-solver comfortable with ambiguity and rapid change.
- Strategic thinker who can balance long-term vision with near-term execution.
- Collaborative leader who can influence and build relationships across technical and commercial teams.
- Detail-oriented with uncompromising standards for accuracy and quality.
- Growth mindset with enthusiasm for building and scaling in an emerging industry.
What We Offer
- The opportunity to build financial infrastructure for a category-defining quantum computing company.
- Direct partnership with an experienced CFO with 20+ years of scale-up expertise.
- Exposure to world-leading quantum scientists and engineers.
- Competitive compensation.
- Cambridge, UK location with 2-3 days in the office per week.
What can you expect from us
- A comprehensive benefits package that includes an annual bonus plan, private medical insurance, life insurance, and a contributory pension scheme.
- Equity, so that our team can share in the long-term success of Riverlane.
- 28 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and enhanced family leave.
- A diverse work environment that brings together experts in many fields (including software and hardware development, quantum information theory, physics and maths) and over 20 different nationalities.
- A learning environment that encourages individual, team and company growth and development, including a regular programme of learning events and training and conference budgets.
How to apply
Please upload a CV and covering letter by clicking 'Apply Now'. Your covering letter should explain why you are applying for the job and what skills and experience you can bring to the role.
If you have any queries, please contact jobs@riverlane.com.
Everyone is welcome at Riverlane. We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from eligible and suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender reassignment, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, or pregnancy and maternity/paternity.
Women and other underrepresented groups may be less likely to apply for a role unless they meet all or nearly all of the requirements. If this applies to you, we still encourage you to apply - you may be a great fit, even if you don't meet every single qualification. We'd love to hear from you.
If you need any adjustments made to the application or selection process so you can do your best, please let us know. We will be happy to help.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Finance Director - Equity & Growth, Hybrid (Cambridge)
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Riverlane. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Finance Director - Equity & Growth, Hybrid (Cambridge)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Riverlane.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Riverlane's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Riverlane
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Riverlane.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Riverlane will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Riverlane employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
