Co-Founder / CFO

Co-Founder & Chief Financial Officer (CFO) – EmstreeLocation: Remote (preferably within GMT to GMT+3) Stage: Early-stage startup Equity: Co-founder level (to be agreed) About EmstreeEmstree is a next-generation ESG intelligence and impact-enablement company. We build tools, data systems, and services that help mining companies, governments, and institutions operate more sustainably, transparently, and efficiently. Our work spans ESG data collection, geospatial analysis, sustainability reporting, environmental monitoring, and hands-on rehabilitation services. We are now seeking a mission-driven Co-Founder CFO to join the founding team and help shape Emstree’s financial engine as we scale across Africa and beyond. Role OverviewThe Co-Founder CFO will be responsible for building Emstree’s entire financial foundation from the ground up. This is a strategic, hands-on role suited for someone who is excited by early-stage ambiguity, wants to co-create a scalable business model, and can serve as a trusted partner across funding, operations, and long-term strategy.This is a build, design, and lead position. Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Strategy & LeadershipArchitect Emstree’s financial strategy, forecasts, and economic model.Develop scalable unit economics for ESG+ products, data services, and consulting & technical arms.Establish long-term financial plans aligned with company goals, impact, and growth.Build dashboards and metrics for leadership and investors.Fundraising & Investor RelationsCo-lead capital raises (pre-seed to Series A).Prepare financial models, data rooms, pitch materials, and investor narratives.Manage relationships with investors, DFIs, NGOs, and impact-oriented funds.Evaluate grants, blended finance, impact financing, and cross-border funding opportunities.Financial Operations & ControlsBuild the finance function from zero: accounting, compliance, treasury, billing, and systems.Implement financial processes, policies, and reporting frameworks (IFRS).Oversee budgeting, cash flow, audit readiness, and scenario modelling.Ensure compliance with tax, regulatory, and financial requirements across regions (especially SADC, UK, and offshore structures).Commercial & Strategic SupportPartner with CEO and CTO on pricing, product strategy, and revenue models.Analyse financial implications of partnerships, contracts, and new service lines.Lead financial due diligence for M&A or data-asset acquisitions.Support go-to-market strategy by validating commercial assumptions.Team & CultureBuild, mentor, and lead a small finance and operations team as the company grows.Collaborate closely with co-founders on culture, values, and execution.Promote transparency, accountability, and ethical financial practice. Ideal Candidate ProfileExperience4+ years in finance, investment, accounting, or startup financial leadership.Experience in one or more of the following:Venture-backed startups (CFO, VP Finance, Head of Finance).Investment banking, private equity, or corporate finance.ESG, mining, climate finance, or development finance (a major plus).Experience raising capital in emerging markets is a strong advantage.Skills & AttributesExceptional financial modelling and analytical skills.Deep understanding of startup capital strategy and financial storytelling.Ability to operate strategically while remaining willing to “do the work”.Strong understanding of compliance across multiple jurisdictions.Highly organised, resilient, and comfortable balancing risk with growth.Mission-driven with a passion for sustainability, transparency, and impact. What We OfferCo-founder-level equity.A chance to build an influential ESG company from the ground up.Autonomy, trust, and the ability to shape Emstree’s growth trajectory.The opportunity to work on ESG innovation, climate impact, and frontier-market transformation.Collaboration with a small, passionate, execution-focused founding team.How to ApplyIf you’re inspired to build a category-defining ESG and impact company and want to shape the financial engine and strategy that powers meaningful change, reach out to us at support@emstree.org