Finance Director

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 jobs@riverlane.com .

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.