At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape financial strategies for a climate tech startup tackling CO2 emissions and water pollution.
- Company: Join BioBright, a pioneering startup focused on sustainable maritime solutions.
- Benefits: Gain invaluable experience in finance while making a positive environmental impact.
- Other info: Flexible commitment of 7-9 hours per week, working remotely for 3-5 months.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission-driven team transforming the maritime industry with innovative algae technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in finance within high-growth tech companies and a passion for sustainability.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
Volunteer for a startup helping to reduce CO2 emissions and water pollution. BioBright helps the maritime industry to reduce CO2 and water pollution by using algae cultivation and monitoring systems. The maritime industry is a significant contributor to global environmental challenges, particularly regarding CO2 emissions and water pollution. BioBright is committed to tackling these urgent issues through its innovative algae-based technologies designed to reduce emissions and improve water quality within ports.
Algae-Based Technology for CO2 Absorption
BioBright cultivates algae inside ports, which naturally absorbs CO2 from the surrounding environment. Only 400 grams of algae can absorb 800 grams of CO2 every hour, making it a highly effective solution for carbon reduction in maritime ecosystems. By scaling algae installations in key port areas, BioBright helps ports significantly reduce their carbon footprint.
Role (Volunteer, unpaid): Strategic CFO
Role Description:
About BioBright: BioBright is developing the next generation of environmental intelligence for ports and critical infrastructure. Our autonomous monitoring platform combines advanced sensing, AI-powered analytics, and real-time decision support to help operators improve environmental compliance, reduce operational risk, and make faster, data-driven decisions.
As we transition from successful pilots to commercial scale, we are looking for a strategic CFO who can help build the financial foundations required for sustainable growth and successful fundraising.
The Opportunity
This is not a traditional finance role. We are looking for a strategic partner who can shape BioBright's growth trajectory by developing a capital strategy that enables rapid customer adoption, scalable operations, and long-term shareholder value. The successful candidate will work closely with the CEO to ensure every financing decision accelerates commercial growth while maximising capital efficiency.
Build a Scalable Financial Strategy
Timeline: First 60 days
- Develop a robust three-year financial model.
- Define commercial KPIs and unit economics.
- Build customer acquisition and revenue forecasting models.
- Create scenario planning for conservative, expected, and high-growth outcomes.
Impact
Provide the financial framework required to scale confidently while maintaining financial discipline.
Develop the Capital Strategy
Timeline: First 90 days
- Determine the optimal size of the next funding round.
- Recommend the timing of future fundraising activities.
- Produce dilution and ownership models across multiple investment rounds.
- Develop valuation assumptions linked to commercial milestones.
Impact
Enable BioBright to raise the right amount of capital at the right time while protecting shareholder value.
Improve Investor Readiness
Timeline: Months 2-6
- Build investor-grade financial models.
- Prepare fundraising metrics and Board reporting.
- Support due diligence and investor discussions.
- Develop financial narratives that clearly communicate scalability and commercial potential.
Impact
Increase investor confidence and improve fundraising outcomes.
Timeline: Ongoing
- Review spending priorities and capital allocation.
- Optimise cash utilisation across engineering, commercial, and operations.
- Support pricing and commercial strategy through financial analysis.
Impact
Increase growth while extending runway and reducing unnecessary dilution.
Time Commitment
Approximately 1 day per week initially. Flexible engagement based on company milestones.
Success Measures
Within the first 12 months, the CFO will have helped BioBright to:
- Develop a scalable financial operating model.
- Establish clear financial metrics for customer adoption and growth.
- Build a capital strategy aligned with commercial milestones.
- Increase investor attractiveness through professional financial planning and reporting.
- Optimise runway and capital efficiency.
- Support a successful fundraising process with robust financial modelling and valuation analysis.
Who You Are
You have experience leading finance within high-growth technology or deep-tech businesses and understand the unique challenges of scaling venture-backed companies. You are comfortable advising founders, communicating with investors, and balancing ambitious growth with disciplined capital management. Most importantly, you enjoy working alongside founders to transform innovative technology into commercially successful businesses.
Time Commitment: Volunteer 7-9 hours per week for 3-5 months remotely.
Strategic CFO (Volunteer) for Climate Tech Startup in London employer: We Make Change
We Make Change is an exceptional employer for those passionate about journalism and community engagement. By joining us as a Volunteer Social Growth Lead, you'll not only enhance your skills in social media strategy but also play a vital role in revitalising local journalism, all while working in a supportive environment that values meaningful contributions to civic life.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic CFO (Volunteer) for Climate Tech Startup in London
✨Leverage Your Local Community
Dive into local non-profit organisations or community projects that need help with financial controlling. They often look for volunteers, and it’s a great way to get hands-on experience while also expanding your network. Plus, it looks fantastic on your CV!
✨Join Finance Volunteer Groups
Get involved with finance-focused clubs or online communities where volunteers gather. Websites like Pro Bono Economics or local finance meetups can be gold mines for finding opportunities. Engage, ask questions, and let them know you’re on the lookout for volunteer roles!
✨Attend Workshops and Seminars
Keep an eye out for workshops or seminars focused on finance and volunteering. These are not only educational but also excellent opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and organisations. You never know who might be looking for a volunteer to lend a hand in financial controlling!
✨Don’t Sleep on Our Website
Make sure to check out the volunteer roles available at We Make Change on our website. Applying directly through our platform can give you a better chance, as we’re always looking for passionate volunteers just like you to help out in financial controlling!
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic CFO (Volunteer) for Climate Tech Startup in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Financial Acumen:In your CV, we want to see any relevant coursework or experience in finance and accounting. Be sure to mention your understanding of financial controlling principles, as this role relies on strong numerical skills and analytical abilities. If you've had any experience with financial modelling or reporting tools, don’t forget to flaunt that too!
Speak from the Heart in Your Cover Letter:A volunteer role is all about passion, so make sure your cover letter reflects your motivation to contribute to We Make Change. Share your vision for how you can help with financial operations, and emphasise your eagerness to learn and grow in the financial controlling field. This is your chance to convey your enthusiasm!
Show Off Your Commitment:Include any past volunteer experiences in finance or related fields on your CV. This shows that you value giving back and can balance your commitments. Even if it’s just assisting a local charity with their books, we love to see how you're already making a difference!
Tailor Your Application Materials:Make sure to customize your CV and cover letter for Strategic CFO (Volunteer) for Climate Tech Startup at We Make Change. Use keywords related to financial controlling, such as budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis, to show that you understand the core aspects of the role. This gives us a clearer picture of how you'd fit into our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at We Make Change
✨Know Your Numbers
In financial controlling, it’s all about accuracy and attention to detail. Brush up on key financial concepts like balance sheets, profit and loss statements, and cash flow management. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve handled financial data in the past — even if it’s from school projects or personal budgeting.
✨Get Comfortable with Software
Familiarity with software tools like Excel or any financial modelling programs can give you an edge. If you can, practice with pivot tables or learn about forecasting models so you can showcase your technical skills. Being able to demonstrate your proficiency with these tools will help us feel confident in your capabilities.
✨Share Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a volunteer role, motivation and passion are key! Above all, be prepared to convey why you want to volunteer in financial controlling. Share your personal interest in finance and how you see this experience helping you grow. We love seeing enthusiasm and a willingness to learn!
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
In interviews for financial controlling, we often encounter scenario-based questions that test your problem-solving skills. Think of a few examples where you had to analyse financial discrepancies or make decisions based on data. Being able to articulate your thought process in these scenarios will make you stand out!
