At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape BioBright's financial strategy to drive growth and secure funding for climate tech innovations.
- Company: Join a pioneering startup dedicated to reducing CO2 emissions and water pollution in the maritime industry.
- Benefits: Gain invaluable experience, network with industry leaders, and contribute to a sustainable future.
- Other info: Flexible commitment of 7-9 hours per week, working remotely with a dynamic team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on environmental challenges while developing your strategic finance skills.
- 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:
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 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
✨Get Involved in Local Consulting Projects
Dive into some local community projects that need consulting expertise. Look for volunteer opportunities where you can lend a hand to nonprofits. It’s a fab way to gain experience, showcase your skills, and make connections in management consulting. Plus, it makes your CV stand out when you're applying to roles like Strategic CFO (Volunteer) for Climate Tech Startup at We Make Change.
✨Join Consulting Networks and Forums
Get yourself active in online forums like Consulting.com or local Facebook groups that focus on management consulting. Not only can you learn from those already in the field, but you can also discover volunteer gigs and network with potential mentors who might be aware of opportunities at We Make Change.
✨Attend Workshops and Seminars
Keep an eye out for free workshops and seminars related to management consulting. These events are perfect for networking with industry professionals and learning current trends. Say 'hi' and let people know you’re keen on jumping into the consulting world through a volunteer role—you’ll be surprised where those conversations can lead.
✨Collaborate with Fellow Volunteers
When you're volunteering, take the chance to collaborate with fellow volunteers. Work together on consulting projects or even create a small team to tackle larger issues. It’s a great way to demonstrate teamwork, build your consulting portfolio, and possibly lead to a full-time role at We Make Change down the line.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic CFO (Volunteer) for Climate Tech Startup
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Problem-Solving Skills:In management consulting, we need to see your critical thinking abilities right from the start. Use your CV and cover letter to highlight any experience where you diagnosed issues and proposed strategies, even if it was during a volunteer project or at university. Specific examples are what we’re looking for!
Tailor Your Motivation:Since this is a volunteer role, we want to see your passion for the field. Make sure your cover letter reflects why you're specifically drawn to management consulting and how this opportunity aligns with your career aspirations. Let us know how this role fits into your learning journey!
Highlight Teamwork Experiences:Consulting isn’t just about individual brilliance; it’s about working in teams. Share any group projects, teamwork in volunteer settings, or leadership experiences on your CV. We love seeing candidates who can thrive in collaborative environments!
Keep It Concise and Engaging:With volunteer positions, your application should grab attention quickly. Keep your CV and cover letter succinct while maintaining an engaging tone. Use bullet points for clarity and impact, so we get a quick snapshot of your skills and experiences!
How to prepare for a job interview at We Make Change
✨Show off your analytical skills
In management consulting, we know that analytical thinking is key. Be ready to dive into case studies during your interview—practice breaking down complex problems and providing structured solutions. It's all about showcasing your thought process, so think aloud and be methodical in tackling those scenarios.
✨Give examples of impactful teamwork
As a volunteer in management consulting, collaboration is vital. Prepare specific examples from your past experiences where you contributed to a team effort that led to tangible change. This could be in school projects or community initiatives. Employers at We Make Change love to see how you work with others, especially in challenging situations.
✨Express your motivation for volunteering
In a volunteer role, your passion and willingness to learn will stand out. Be clear about why you’re interested in this volunteer opportunity at We Make Change. Share what you hope to gain and how this experience aligns with your long-term goals. They’ll appreciate your eagerness to contribute and grow in the field.
✨Prepare for behavioural questions
Expect behavioural questions that delve into your experience and how you've handled challenges. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. Think of situations where you demonstrated leadership, adaptability, or problem-solving skills, as these are core competencies in management consulting.
