CFO (external)

About the Role

The successful candidate will take ownership of financial planning, reporting, and grant management, ensuring the company's financial health and stability. This role will involve working in a lean environment, requiring a hands-on mentality and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

As a key member of the team, the CFO will provide strategic financial guidance, supporting the company's mission to drive innovation in microscopy, ophthalmology, and machine vision.

What You Will Do

• Develop and implement comprehensive financial plans, including P&L, cash flow, and budget forecasts
• Conduct scenario analyses, runway, and data room materials to ensure investor-grade quality
• Manage short-, medium-, and long-term liquidity planning, cash management, and reporting
• Own the tax advisor relationship, ensuring compliance with German tax law and HGB
• Serve as the primary interface with funding agencies for cost reporting and financials for new grants
• Develop and maintain consistent intercompany and group reporting for investors and stakeholders
• Collaborate with the CEO as a sparring partner on financial and strategic matters
• Oversee the preparation of financial statements and reports, including balance sheets and income statements
• Develop and maintain financial models to support business decisions and forecasting

What We Are Looking For

• Extensive experience as a CFO, Head of Finance, or senior Controller in a similar industry
• Deep familiarity with HGB, German tax law, and the tax advisor/auditor ecosystem
• Financial modelling skills, with the ability to create investor-grade models
• Native-level German language skills, with English working proficiency
• Hands-on mentality, comfortable working in lean environments
• Experience with financial planning and analysis, including budgeting and forecasting
• Strong understanding of financial reporting requirements and regulations
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Nice to Have

• Experience in a startup or venture-backed environment, with knowledge of investor due diligence processes
• Familiarity with public funding and working with project management agencies
• Experience with multi-entity reporting and consolidation
• Knowledge of financial software and systems, such as ERP and accounting systems

Benefits and Perks

• Flexible freelance collaboration, with the opportunity to work remotely
• Exciting deep-tech environment, with the chance to contribute to breakthrough innovation
• Strategically relevant role, with direct impact on company development
• Close collaboration with founders and managing directors
• Opportunity to take the finance function to the next level
• Access to cutting-edge technology and equipment
• Professional development opportunities, with the chance to expand your skill set
• Competitive compensation package, with benefits and perks to be discussed

• Ensure you have a strong understanding of German tax law and the tax advisor/auditor ecosystem, as this will be a key area of focus for the role.
• Develop a comprehensive portfolio of your financial modelling skills, including examples of investor-grade models you have created.
• Be prepared to discuss your experience with financial planning and analysis, including budgeting and forecasting, and how you have applied these skills in previous roles.
• Research the company's technology and products, and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to the company's mission and growth.
• Practice your English language skills, as you will be working in a global environment and will need to communicate effectively with stakeholders.
• Be prepared to discuss your experience working in lean environments and your ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
• Review the company's financial reports and statements, and be prepared to discuss your analysis and insights.