At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a high-growth startup and tackle real projects that drive the business forward.
- Company: Dynamic food startup with ambitious founders and a mission-driven team.
- Benefits: Extensive healthcare, learning budget, team events, and birthday off.
- Other info: Fast-track role for future leaders in a vibrant, collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience and work directly with founders on impactful projects.
- Qualifications: Curiosity, analytical mindset, clear communication, and a self-starter attitude.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
The Collective Network provided pay range
This range is provided by The Collective Network . Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.
Base pay range
Direct message the job poster from The Collective Network
Founders Associate – For Graduates Who Don’t Want a Boring Job
Let’s be honest: you didn’t go to uni to make PowerPoints about PowerPoints.
We’re working with a high‑growth startup that’s shaking up the food world. In just a few years, they’ve gone from a bold idea to a thriving business, serving thousands of happy customers across the UK. Now, they need someone smart, curious, and hungry to join as a Founders Associate.
What the Job Actually Is
It’s the role we wish we’d had when we left uni. You’ll work directly with the founders, getting hands‑on experience in everything: improving customer experience, building operational processes, testing new growth ideas, and analysing performance. Every day is different, and you’ll be trusted to take ownership from day one. You don’t need loads of experience, you need curiosity, hustle, and the drive to learn fast.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Tackling priority projects that actually move the business forward.
- Turning problems into solutions using data, logic, and a bit of creativity.
- Tracking and reporting key initiatives like a pro.
- Analysing growth opportunities, market trends, or commercial performance.
- Producing clear, sharp outputs, board slides, project plans, or anything that matters.
- Spotting inefficiencies and fixing them before anyone else does.
What You’ll Bring
- Smart, curious, and eager to learn.
- Analytical mindset – numbers and logic are your friends.
- Clear communicator – both written and verbal.
- Self‑starter – you don’t wait to be told what to do.
- Collaborative but happy to own your work.
- Resilient, adaptable, and able to bounce back from setbacks.
- Attention to detail and pride in doing things properly.
Why It’s Worth Your Time
- Learn how a real business is built from the inside.
- Work directly with founders and leadership.
- Exposure to high‑impact projects early in your career.
- Fast‑track role for future operators, founders, or generalists.
- Be part of a mission‑driven team with big ambition.
Perks (Because You’ll Probably Want to Know)
- Extensive healthcare coverage, including top‑tier cancer support.
- £250 annual Learning & Development budget.
- £100 wellbeing budget.
- Up to 2 weeks working abroad per year.
- Team events – from axe throwing to cocktail making.
- Discounts on products for yourself and friends/family.
- Birthday off, because why not?
The Mindset We’re Looking For
- Hungry to grow and unafraid of hard work.
- Ready to take responsibility and earn it.
- Flexible, positive, and willing to get stuck in.
- Excited to be part of something that actually matters.
If you’re a graduate who wants to learn fast, do real work, and make an impact, this is the role you’ve been waiting for.
Seniority level
- Entry level
Employment type
- Full-time
Job function
- Manufacturing
- Food and Beverage Manufacturing
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Founders Associate employer: The Collective Network
Join a world-leading F1 team in Northamptonshire, where you'll thrive in a pristine inspection environment surrounded by cutting-edge technology and a team of highly skilled engineers. Enjoy a permanent night shift role with excellent benefits, including a free onsite gym and lunch allowance, while advancing your career in the exciting motorsport industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Founders Associate
✨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 The Collective Network!
✨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 The Collective Network.
✨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 The Collective Network.
✨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 The Collective Network — a personal touch goes a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Founders Associate
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 The Collective Network. 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 The Collective Network
✨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!
