Founder-in-Residence (CEO-in-waiting)

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, launch and partnership strategies.
• Recruit, build and manage the initial core team across product, growth, operations and support.
• Set up lean processes, metrics and operational discipline.
• Collaborate with AINAD on fundraising, investor materials and strategic partnerships.
• Transition to full CEO responsibilities once milestones (team, traction, revenue, governance) are met.

Required profile

• Experience as a founder, co‑founder or senior operator in a high‑growth startup.
• Proven track record of taking a product or service from zero to one and scaling it.
• 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

• Founder‑with‑a‑safety‑net: build with the backing of an experienced venture studio.
• Direct 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 candidates able to spend time in key markets (US/UK/Europe).