At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the CEO in fundraising, market research, and strategic projects.
- Company: Join Circeus, an innovative AI-native holding company transforming B2B software.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, real ownership from day one, and growth opportunities.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with a focus on learning and impact.
- Why this job: Gain direct exposure to building an AI-native company and work with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Strong analytical skills, excellent communication, and a curiosity for AI tools.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
About Circeus
Circeus is an AI-native holding company that acquires and evolves mission-critical B2B software businesses globally. We serve 200,000+ businesses worldwide, focusing on the vertical and workflow software the everyday economy runs on. Our model is direct: acquire strong software businesses and evolve them through a centralised AI platform, driving both revenue growth and operational efficiency. We operate as long-term owners, not flippers, continuously improving every product through applied AI.
The Role
We’re hiring a Founder Associate to work directly with the CEO across the highest-priority initiatives at Circeus. This is a front-row seat to how an AI-native holding company is built and scaled, spanning fundraising, investor relations, market research, and strategic projects that don’t yet have an obvious owner. You’ll move between deep analytical work and fast-turnaround execution, often on the same day. One week might mean prepping investor materials, the next researching a new vertical or acting as the connective layer between the CEO and AI tools that speed up decision-making. This suits someone entry-level who wants exposure to company-building at pace, not a structured graduate scheme. You’ll be trusted with real scope quickly, and the CEO will expect you to bring structure to ambiguity rather than wait for it.
What You’ll Do
- Support fundraising processes, including materials, data rooms, and diligence coordination
- Maintain and strengthen investor relationships alongside the CEO
- Conduct market research to inform acquisition targets and strategic direction
- Act as an AI intermediary, using AI tools to accelerate the CEO’s decision-making and output
- Prepare briefing documents, board materials, and strategic memos
- Track and follow up on action items from CEO meetings and investor conversations
- Synthesise research into clear recommendations for the CEO
- Coordinate across portfolio companies on CEO-led initiatives
What We’re Looking For
- Strong academic record with clear evidence of analytical rigour
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Comfort working directly with senior stakeholders and investors
- Genuine curiosity about AI tools and how they can accelerate individual output
- Ability to context-switch between strategic and administrative work without losing quality
- High ownership mentality and comfort operating with limited structure
Nice to Have
- Prior internship in venture capital, private equity, investment banking, or a startup
- Experience with fundraising materials or investor communications
- Exposure to SaaS or B2B software businesses
- Familiarity with AI tools such as Claude, ChatGPT, or similar for research and productivity
Why Circeus
- Direct, sustained exposure to a CEO building an AI-native holding company
- Visibility across a portfolio of 200,000+ served businesses, not a single product
- Real ownership and pace from day one, not a rotational graduate programme
- Access to a centralised AI platform used to drive measurable impact across the business
- Competitive compensation with genuine growth trajectory for high performers
If you're excited by high ownership, steep learning curves, and the opportunity to help build an AI-native software holding company from the inside, we'd love to hear from you.
Founder Associate in London employer: Shop Circle
Quince is an exceptional employer that champions a culture of innovation and sustainability, making it an ideal place for a Brand Designer passionate about creating timeless essentials. With a commitment to high-quality craftsmanship and fair pricing, employees enjoy a collaborative environment that prioritises personal growth and development, alongside the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology in a rapidly evolving retail landscape. Located in a vibrant area, Quince offers unique advantages such as a focus on social responsibility and a direct impact on customer satisfaction, making every contribution meaningful and rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Founder Associate in London
✨Get Involved in Startup Events
Dive into the local startup scene! Attend pitch nights, hackathons, and networking events. It's a great way to meet founders and like-minded folks. Plus, you never know who might put in a good word for you at a startup like Shop Circle!
✨Show Off Your Creativity
Startups love unique ideas! Create a portfolio or a personal website showcasing your past projects, especially those relevant to startups. This personal touch can really make you stand out when you're applying for that full-time gig at Shop Circle.
✨Leverage Startup Communities Online
Get active on platforms such as Indie Hackers, Startup Grind, or even LinkedIn groups focused on startups. Participating in discussions can increase your visibility and open up potential job leads, especially at buzzing companies like Shop Circle.
✨Direct Applications are Your Best Bet
Don't shy away from applying directly through our website. Startups often check their own portals first before other job sites. Tailor your application to show how you can add value to Shop Circle — a personal touch goes a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Founder Associate 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 Shop Circle. 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 Shop Circle
✨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!
