Finance Director
Cambridge, UK | Full-time | Permanent | Hybrid
About us
Riverlane's mission is to master quantum error correction (QEC) and unlock a new age of human progress. From advances in material and climate science, to complex chemistry simulation for new drug design, quantum computers will help humanity solve some of its most important challenges. But without QEC, the industry's defining technical challenge, such breakthroughs can never be achieved. Riverlane is the world leader in QEC technology. QEC is a complex problem that requires a range of skills, talent and passion.
Having raised more than $125M in funding to date to accelerate our cutting-edge R&D in quantum error correction (QEC), Riverlane partners with many of the world's leading quantum hardware providers and government agencies to make fault-tolerant quantum computing a reality. We're making remarkable progress and growing fast.
The Opportunity
We're seeking an exceptional Financial Director to partner with our CFO in building world-class financial operations for a scaling deep tech company. This is a rare opportunity to shape the financial foundation of a quantum computing leader during a pivotal growth phase, working at the intersection of cutting-edge science and commercial scale-up.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Planning & Analysis
- Build an FP&A function, developing sophisticated financial models to support strategic decision-making in a complex business
- Own the annual budgeting and quarterly reforecasting processes across multiple cost centers and international operations
- Build comprehensive reporting frameworks for board meetings and investor communications
- Develop scenario planning models for various growth trajectories and funding paths
- Develop pricing models and commercial frameworks for QEC solutions
- Build revenue forecasting capabilities for a complex, emerging technology market
- Partner with commercial teams on contract structuring and deal economics
Financial Operations & Control
- Build scalable financial processes and systems to support 3x headcount growth in coming years
- Enhance financial controls and governance frameworks appropriate for a unicorn-stage business
- Partner with accounting teams to ensure accurate and timely financial close processes
- Implement financial systems and tools to improve efficiency and insight
- Experience with ERP implementation and financial systems transformation
Team Leadership
- Build and develop a high-performing finance team across Financial Operations, FP&A and business partnering functions
- Act as a trusted advisor to business unit leaders across research, engineering, commercial, and operations
- Foster a culture of financial literacy and data-driven decision-making across the organization
Required Experience & Qualifications
Essential
- ACA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent professional qualification
- 5-8 years of progressive finance experience; strong controller attributes (50% of experience) alongside more recent FP&A experience (50% of experience)
- Proven track record in high-growth, venture-backed technology companies (Series A through D)
- Deep expertise in financial modelling, forecasting, and scenario planning
- Demonstrated ability to build financial processes and systems from the ground up
- Strong commercial acumen and ability to translate complex technical concepts into financial frameworks
Highly Desirable
- Experience in deep tech, R&D focused business models
- International finance experience across multiple jurisdictions
- Exposure to quantum computing, semiconductors, or adjacent advanced technology sectors
- Cambridge or London location, able to commute
Personal Attributes
- Intellectually curious with the ability to quickly grasp complex technical concepts
- Resilient problem-solver comfortable with ambiguity and rapid change
- Strategic thinker who can balance long-term vision with near-term execution
- Collaborative leader who can influence and build relationships across technical and commercial teams
- Detail-oriented with uncompromising standards for accuracy and quality
- Growth mindset with enthusiasm for building and scaling in an emerging industry
What We Offer
- The opportunity to build financial infrastructure for a category-defining quantum computing company
- Direct partnership with an experienced CFO with 20+ years of scale-up expertise
- Exposure to world-leading quantum scientists and engineers
- Competitive compensation
- Cambridge, UK location with 2-3 days in the office per week
What can you expect from us
- A comprehensive benefits package that includes an annual bonus plan, private medical insurance, life insurance, and a contributory pension scheme
- Equity, so that our team can share in the long-term success of Riverlane
- 28 days annual leave, plus bank holidays and enhanced family leave
- A diverse work environment that brings together experts in many fields (including software and hardware development, quantum information theory, physics and maths) and over 20 different nationalities
- A learning environment that encourages individual, team and company growth and development, including a regular programme of learning events and training and conference budgets
How to apply
Please upload a CV and covering letter by clicking 'Apply Now'. Your covering letter should explain why you are applying for the job and what skills and experience you can bring to the role.
We review CVs as we receive them and interview as soon as we have applications that look like a good match. We do not use closing dates. So, please apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out on this role.
If you have any queries, please contact [email protected].
Everyone is welcome at Riverlane. We are an equal opportunities employer and encourage applications from eligible and suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender reassignment, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership status, or pregnancy and maternity/paternity.
Women and other underrepresented groups may be less likely to apply for a role unless they meet all or nearly all of the requirements. If this applies to you, we still encourage you to apply - you may be a great fit, even if you don't meet every single qualification. We'd love to hear from you.
If you need any adjustments made to the application or selection process so you can do your best, please let us know. We will be happy to help.
GDPR notice: Riverlane collects and processes personal data in accordance with applicable data protection laws. If you are a European Job Applicant see the privacy notice for further details.
