Role Location: Northern Hub, UK Agritech Centre, Easter Bush Campus

Line Manager: CEO

Part-time (0.6 FTE), Permanent Position, In-person

ABOUT US

Beta Bugs is an insect genetics company based in Roslin, Edinburgh. Since day one, genetics has been our sole focus. We have built our company’s strategy, technology, and team around developing and distributing Black Soldier Fly breeds to our customers, Black Soldier Fly producers. We do this by improving Black Soldier Fly genetic performance within our HiPer-Fly® selective breeding programme and distributing them from our The Multiplier egg production facility.

ABOUT OUR INDUSTRY

Black Soldier Fly larvae possess an ability to simultaneously divert food, agricultural and industrial waste from disposal and instead up-cycle it into a green, circular and regionally produced nutrient rich ingredient for the pet, aqua and livestock sectors. As a result, black soldier fly farms are already being deployed by waste processors, retailers and food manufacturers as a means to reduce their waste footprint, whilst producing an alternative to environmentally damaging soymeal and fishmeal production.

ROLE SUMMARY

The Head of Finance will be a strategic leader responsible for driving financial planning, investment support, and business growth within a pioneering insect genetics company. This role will focus on advanced financial modelling to support strategic decision-making, optimise resource allocation, and guide investment strategies.

Collaborating closely with the executive team, the Head of Finance will develop robust financial forecasts, assess market opportunities, and provide data-driven insights to secure funding and partnerships. Additionally, they will engage with investors, stakeholders, and external partners to communicate the company's financial performance, growth potential, and long-term value proposition.

In this role they will be responsible for delivering comprehensive company reporting including the preparation of monthly management accounts, year-end financial statements, grant claims and R&D Tax credit submissions.

With a strong foundation in financial strategy, risk management, and capital allocation, this role will ensure the company maintains a solid financial position while enabling innovation and expansion in the insect genetics sector.

KEY DELIVERABLES

• Develop financial models for investors, product sales & revenue generation.
• Develop, Maintain & Update financial forecasts and statements inclusive of cashflow, P&L and Balance Sheets.
• Advise on the development of financial strategies & decisions with financial impact
• Due diligence work in connection with fund raising activities and Board level matters
• Help to develop a commercial strategy for the business
• Monthly reporting to Investors
• Prepare & deliver monthly, quarterly and year-end financial reporting, including VAT and Payroll.
• Manage the Financial Controller
• Manage grant claims and audits
• Annual review of Insurance and Lease agreements

LEADERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIES

As the Head of Finance, you will provide strategic financial leadership, ensuring the company’s financial health and supporting its growth within the insect genetics sector. With one direct report (Financial Controller), your leadership responsibilities will include:

• The development and implementation of financial strategies that align with the company’s long-term goals and growth trajectory.
• Lead on financial modelling and forecasting to support strategic decision-making, investment planning, and resource allocation.
• Collaborating with the CEO to secure funding, manage investor relations, and articulate the company’s financial vision to potential investors and partners.
• To support grant applications, venture capital fundraising, and strategic financial partnerships to drive business expansion.
• To ensure financial transparency and credibility when communicating with stakeholders, external auditors, and regulatory bodies.
• To manage, mentor, and support the Financial Controller, fostering professional growth and enhancing financial operations.
• Delegation of responsibilities effectively while ensuring robust financial controls and reporting accuracy.
• Oversee cash flow management, working capital, and financial risk assessment to maintain company stability.
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations, tax requirements, and industry standards.

VALUES & BEHAVIOURS

To live and breathe the Beta Bugs Values and Behaviours framework in all aspects of working life, which can be summarised as follows:

• Through all our work and interactions, we value, support and promote diversity and inclusivity
• We treat everyone with dignity and respect
• We act with honesty and integrity in all that we do
• We innovate, and deliver quality outcomes
• We work together, and share knowledge
• We learn and grow, personally and professionally
• We accept accountability for our work
• We lead by Example

ESSENTIAL SKILLS & QUALIFICATIONS FOR THE ROLE

• Chartered Accountant or equivalent (ACA/ACCA/CIMA/CIPFA)
• A degree in Finance, Accounting or Economics
• Hands-on experience of Quickbooks or Xero accounting systems
• Experience of financial modelling and strategic planning
• Investment support and fundraising experience (VC, grants, private equity)
• Leadership & team management skills
• Experience in a high growth, R&D or agriculture related industry is advantageous
• Strong stakeholder engagement with investors, regulators and senior leadership