Chief Executive Officer - Photonic Integrated Circuits

Barrington James Limited; Margate; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A pioneering deep-tech startup in the UK is seeking a CEO to lead the transition from advanced prototype to commercial product. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in leading early-stage tech companies, proven fundraising expertise, and technical fluency in physics or photonics. This position provides a unique opportunity to influence the future of innovative technology in various industries. Interested candidates should apply promptly due to high interest.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in leading startups and scaling technology.
• Experience with venture capital and securing funding.
• Ability to build company culture from square one.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic and commercial roadmap from MVP to product.
• Secure fundraising and establish investor partnerships.
• Build and manage multidisciplinary teams.
• Collaborate with tech team on business alignment.
• Identify commercial partnerships and market entry.

Skills

Leading early-stage tech companies

Fundraising experience

Strong strategic skills

Building teams

Technical fluency in physics or photonics

Fluent English

Education

MSc/PhD in physics, photonics, electrical engineering

Job description

An opportunity for a seasoned and entrepreneurial CEO to take the reins of a deep-tech startup developing groundbreaking laser and photonics technology with broad application potential — from quantum computing and sensing to space-based communication, automotive LiDAR, and cybersecurity.

The company is at the transition point from advanced prototype (MVP) to commercial product, and is now seeking a business-minded CEO to lead it into its next phase of growth and industrialization. Backed by strong IP, a solid technical founding team, and early traction in strategic markets, this is a real opportunity to make a difference — not only in shaping a company, but in helping to bring transformative technology to market.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the company’s strategic and commercial roadmap from MVP to product and scale
• Secure fundraising and investor partnerships (VCs, public grants, strategic investors)
• Build and manage an exceptional multidisciplinary team, attracting talent into key leadership roles
• Collaborate closely with the tech/R&D team to align business and product strategy
• Represent the company to stakeholders, partners, and industry leaders
• Identify and pursue commercial partnerships, early customer relationships, and market entry points
• Establish operational processes to support growth and scalability

Requirements

• A track record of leading early-stage tech companies (preferably in deep tech, hardware, or photonics)
• Proven fundraising experience (venture capital and/or non-dilutive funding)
• Strong strategic, operational, and financial skills
• Experience building teams and company culture from the ground up
• Technical fluency — ideally with a background (MSc/PhD) in physics, photonics, electrical engineering, or related fields
• Passion for turning complex technology into real-world impact
• Fluent English (German and/or French are strong assets)

Following your application Jake Phillips, a specialist recruiter will discuss the opportunity with you in detail. Jake will be more than happy to answer any questions relating to the industry and the potential for your career growth. The conversation can also progress further to discussing other opportunities, which are also available right now or will be imminently becoming available.

This position has been highly popular, and it is likely that it will close shortly. We recommend applying as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

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