Commercial Co-founder – Clean Energy Startup Transforming Food Waste into Energy
Founder: Dr. Masih Sadeghi
Mission: Revolutionising food waste into portable and scalable electricity solutions through AI-powered Synthetic Biology, creating a cleaner and more sustainable future.
The Opportunity
This is a pivotal moment as we prepare to scale and seek early adopters. The market is shifting towards sustainable solutions, and we are positioned to lead this transformation.
We are an early-stage startup, backed by Zinc VC, looking for a commercial co-founder to help scale our solution for converting food waste into electricity. This is an opportunity to define and own the commercial strategy for a game-changing technology, working alongside a dedicated and experienced technical co-founder.
We are currently operating in semi-stealth mode, focusing on developing a strong IP strategy while selectively engaging with key stakeholders. This approach allows us to validate our model, refine our strategy, and build meaningful partnerships for long-term success.
We aim to bring on a commercial co-founder within the next 2 months.
The Problem
Food waste is a massive and growing problem, with businesses struggling to dispose of it sustainably. The UK alone generates over 9.5 million tonnes of food waste annually, much of which ends up in landfills, producing methane, a greenhouse gas 25x more potent than CO2. At the same time, businesses are searching for cost-effective, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions. The problem is urgent, and current waste management solutions are inefficient, costly, and environmentally damaging.
Who We Are
We are setting a new industry standard by combining AI-powered synthetic biology with advanced energy integration, delivering a highly efficient, portable, and scalable energy system for businesses.
We are pioneering an innovative AI-powered synthetic biology system that efficiently processes waste into electricity.
Our approach includes:
* Cutting-edge AI-driven Synthetic Biology to optimise energy production.
* Integrated energy solutions that convert waste into usable electricity.
* A B2B-first model, targeting restaurants, hotels, and food production facilities before expanding to consumers.
We are revolutionising food waste management by providing businesses with an easy, cost-effective, and sustainable alternative to traditional disposal methods.
Who You Are
We are looking for an innovative and commercially driven co-founder who will lead the go-to-market strategy and drive revenue growth. Ideally, you will have:
* The drive for the development and execution of a funding strategy, engaging investors and securing capital to fuel growth.
* Experience in clean energy and integration of energy systems for businesses.
* Deep industry connections within the clean energy, waste management, or sustainability sectors, with a proven ability to forge strategic partnerships.
* Experience successfully commercialising biotech, cleantech, or sustainability-focused solutions.
* A proven track record of business development within early-stage ventures.
* Experience selling to businesses (B2B), especially in hospitality, food production, or waste management.
* A background in securing Letters of Intent (LOIs), early customers, and strategic partnerships.
* Fundraising experience, including investor relations and securing venture capital or grants.
* A data-driven approach to commercial strategy, pricing models, and customer acquisition.
* The ability to scale a business from zero to one, with hands-on execution.
As a Person, You…
* Are passionate about sustainability, energy, and waste reduction.
* Thrive in fast-paced startup environments and can wear multiple hats.
* Are a strategic thinker but also hands-on, able to execute at every level.
* Can build and lead a team, shaping the culture of a high-impact startup.
* Are willing to commit full-time to building this venture and are based in (or willing to be in) London.
What We Offer
* Co-founder status via the Zinc Venture Builder programme (includes a monthly stipend of ~£2.2k).
* Significant equity stake (vesting over four years).
* Salary will be determined post-funding. Competitive equity offered to align incentives for long-term growth.
* Co-working space in central London.
* Thriving community of impact-driven startups.
* Access to Zinc VC’s powerful network and accelerator programme, including top-tier mentorship, funding opportunities, and free executive coaching.
* Hybrid working model, with access to a co-working space in London.
* A mission-driven environment, where you can directly impact the future of sustainability.
* Networking opportunities within the cleantech and biotech startup ecosystem.
Location
We operate hybrid, meeting 2-3 days per week in our London co-working space. Regular in-person collaboration is required, with flexibility. You must have the legal right to work in the UK.
Interested? Apply Here
If you're ready to build the future of sustainable energy, we want to hear from you! Apply here or reach out to discuss how you can be part of this transformative journey.