At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial strategy and operations for a pioneering agri-tech company.
- Company: ZELP Ltd is transforming agriculture for a sustainable future, tackling methane emissions in livestock.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, equity options, flexible schedules, and a mission-driven team culture.
- Other info: Ideal for innovative thinkers passionate about sustainability and financial strategy.
- Why this job: Join us to make a real impact on climate solutions while shaping the future of agriculture.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in financial leadership, with experience in start-ups and carbon markets required.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) role at ZELP Ltd
ZELP is an agricultural technology company committed to creating a sustainable future for agriculture - one that meets the needs of present and future generations, promoting human and environmental health, animal welfare, and social and economic equity.
Our first focus is to develop and scale technology that measures and mitigates methane emissions in the livestock industry. Today, 1.3 billion people rely on the industry for their livelihoods and food security. However, it is the single biggest human-driven source of methane emissions globally, emitting more than both the oil & gas industry and the coal industry.
The deployment of our technologies on a global scale has the potential to drive half the global methane reduction needed by 2030, and to greatly transform the beef and dairy industries.
ZELP was an inaugural winner of the Terra Carta Design Lab, and has received funding and support from the European Commission, Innovate UK, The Global Methane Hub and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
About the role
The Chief Financial Office (CFO) will be responsible for the overall financial strategy, operations, and health of the company. You will lead capital formation, manage long and complex cash cycles, and structure innovative financial mechanisms—ranging from equity to carbon revenue securitisation. This role is ideal for someone with a deep understanding of start-up dynamics, fund-raising, blended financing, and emerging carbon markets.
Key responsibilities
- Lead the structuring and execution of fundraising rounds, including Series B and beyond.
- Build and maintain relationships with investors, lenders, and strategic partners.
- Develop and implement blended financing strategies, including project finance, debt instruments, and catalytic capital.
- Structure and negotiate carbon financing deals, including forward sales, prepayments, and carbon revenue-backed instruments.
- Align carbon monetisation strategies with financial forecasting and operational timelines.
- Build and manage a robust financial infrastructure, including accounting, FP&A, budgeting, and treasury.
- Develop models and tools to manage working capital, forecast liquidity needs, and track financial performance.
- Serve as a key thought partner to the CEO and executive team in setting company strategy and priorities.
- Oversee preparation of board materials, investor updates, and financial reporting.
- Provide leadership on risk management, corporate governance, and financial controls.
- Lead and mentor a small team.
Required Qualification
- 10+ years of progressive financial leadership experience, ideally with few years of experience as a CFO or Head of Finance in a start-up
- Demonstrated experience structuring blended financing deals—equity, debt, and project finance.
- Direct experience with carbon credit markets, including structuring forward sales or pre-financing of environmental assets.
- Deep understanding of cash management and working capital strategies in businesses with long revenue realization cycles.
- Excellent financial modelling, analytical, and strategic planning skills.
- Strong communication skills and ability to influence both internal stakeholders and external partners.
- Experience working in emerging markets or with climate-positive projects is a plus.
Our offer
- Competitive compensation package with equity
- Opportunity to work on high-impact climate solutions
- A collaborative, mission-driven, and entrepreneurial team culture
- Flexibility in work schedule
Seniority level
Executive
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Finance and Sales
Industries
Climate Technology Product Manufacturing
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) employer: ZELP LTD
ZELP Ltd is an exceptional employer for those passionate about making a meaningful impact in the agricultural technology sector. With a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation, employees enjoy a collaborative and entrepreneurial work culture that fosters personal and professional growth. The role of Chief Financial Officer offers competitive compensation, equity opportunities, and the chance to lead financial strategies that drive significant climate solutions, all while working alongside a dedicated team focused on transforming the livestock industry for a sustainable future.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in carbon markets and blended financing. Understanding these areas will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to ZELP's mission of sustainability.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the agricultural technology and climate finance sectors. Building relationships with industry insiders can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals for the CFO position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with fundraising rounds, particularly in start-up environments. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led capital formation efforts in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership skills by highlighting your experience in mentoring teams. ZELP values strong leadership, so be prepared to discuss how you've developed financial teams and fostered a collaborative culture.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Company Mission:Familiarise yourself with ZELP Ltd's mission and values. Highlight how your experience aligns with their commitment to sustainability and innovation in agriculture, particularly in reducing methane emissions.
Tailor Your CV:Ensure your CV reflects your extensive financial leadership experience, especially in start-ups. Emphasise your achievements in fundraising, blended financing, and carbon markets, as these are crucial for the CFO role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also demonstrates your passion for climate technology and sustainable practices. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully managed financial strategies in similar contexts.
Highlight Relevant Skills:In your application, clearly showcase your skills in financial modelling, strategic planning, and stakeholder communication. These are essential for the CFO position and will help you stand out as a candidate.
How to prepare for a job interview at ZELP LTD
✨Understand the Company’s Mission
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand ZELP's mission and how it relates to sustainable agriculture. Be prepared to discuss how your financial strategies can support their goal of reducing methane emissions in the livestock industry.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Highlight your experience in structuring blended financing deals and working with carbon credit markets. Prepare specific examples of past successes that demonstrate your ability to lead fundraising rounds and manage complex cash cycles.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
As a CFO, you'll need to be a key thought partner to the CEO and executive team. Be ready to discuss how you would align financial strategies with the company's operational timelines and overall strategy, showcasing your analytical and strategic planning skills.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Since the role involves leading and mentoring a small team, prepare to discuss your leadership style and experiences. Share examples of how you've successfully managed teams and fostered collaboration in previous roles.
