Founder-in-Residence

About the role

AINAD, a London‑based venture studio focused on AI‑native companies, is seeking a Founder‑in‑Residence to lead the creation and scaling of a new portfolio venture. You will act as the de‑facto founder, owning strategy, product, growth and operations from day one, with a clear pathway to the CEO position as key milestones are achieved.

Key responsibilities

• Define and evolve the company’s vision, strategy and roadmap in partnership with AINAD.
• Lead customer discovery, product development and achieve product‑market fit.
• Design and execute go‑to‑market and growth strategies, including market launches and partnerships.
• Recruit, build and manage the initial core team across product, growth, operations and support.
• Establish lean operational processes, metrics and performance tracking.
• Collaborate with AINAD on fundraising, investor materials and strategic partnerships.
• Transition into full CEO responsibilities once milestones (team, traction, revenue, governance) are met.

Required profile

• Previous experience as a founder, co‑founder or senior operator in a high‑growth startup.
• Proven ability to take a concept from zero to one, launching products and driving growth.
• Strong product intuition and data‑driven decision‑making.
• Commercial mindset with understanding of unit economics and sustainable acquisition.
• Leadership and communication skills to inspire a small, high‑performing team and external stakeholders.
• Passion for building a startup from the ground up.

Required skills

What we offer

• A “founder with a safety net” model backed by an experienced venture studio.
• Access to AINAD’s product, engineering, growth, talent, finance and legal resources.
• Opportunity to shape company culture, product and trajectory from the earliest stage.
• Flexible location with preference for time spent in key markets (US/UK/Europe).