Chief of Staff

We have a core belief that our toxic, sedentary lifestyles are making humans, and the planet, sick. So we’re on a mission to change it.

We’re a bunch of outsiders, dreamers, entrepreneurs, rebels and activists who fight for full regeneration of our people and planet. We move furiously fast in an ever-changing ecosystem, and we also fail fast, learn, get back up and try again. To thrive in this slightly crazy atmosphere, we’re also a bunch of mates, doing cool things and supporting each other along the way.

Celebrating the outdoors isn’t just something we talk about - when the seasons change we’re out there to mark it. Exploring, sharing, workshopping, camping and enjoying local produce is all part of it. Ideally you already love the natural world, or you are eager to get out there, learn and get involved. You’ll be supported and encouraged all the way.

We are a footwear company, a health and wellbeing company, and an evolving bunch of activists. And we’re searching for brilliant humans with exceptional skills and talent to help us make this dream into a reality.

Does the shoe fit? Read on…

We want to find a Chief of Staff who can autonomously execute and operate in a dynamic, fast paced environment. You will support key initiatives and ensure effective communication within the management team and throughout the company.

What will you be doing?...

Project Management:

• Collaborate with the CEO and CPO to set and track strategic projects, ensuring alignment across the organization.
• Lead the planning and execution of high-impact projects, managing timelines, resources, and stakeholder communication.
• Facilitate cross-functional initiatives that align with Vivobarefoot’s objectives, ensuring teams are working toward common goals.

Executive Support & Coordination

• Act as the key liaison between the CEO and key stakeholders
• Oversee the CEO’s schedule and ensure alignment with key priorities including making high level decisions about critical meetings and what can be delegated or postponed
• Coordinate complex travel plans, ensuring seamless logistics
• Prepare the CEO for meetings by gathering relevant documents, creating briefing papers and summarising actions
• Ensure that key actions from meetings are tracked and completed.

Operational Efficiency:

• Optimize internal processes and workflows to enhance productivity and scalability.
• Identify operational gaps and implement solutions to improve efficiency and effectiveness across the organization.
• Help to drive the execution of company-wide OKRs, ensuring all teams are aligned and focused on achieving key milestones.

Financial Oversight:

• Explore and secure various funding options, including R&D grants, loans, and other non-dilutive funding sources, to support our growth.
• Manage investor relations, including preparation for board meetings, investor updates, and fundraising documentation.

Team Leadership and Development:

• Partner with HR and leadership to attract, retain, and develop top talent, fostering a culture of high performance and continuous improvement.
• Oversee company-wide initiatives such as all-hands meetings, feedback processes, and employee engagement programs.
• Act as a mentor and coach to team members, helping to build a cohesive, motivated workforce.

Communication and PR:

• Craft and execute communication strategies that amplify Vivobarefoot’s mission and impact.
• Support the CEO and CPO in managing public profiles, including social media, industry events, and public speaking engagements.
• Coordinate with the marketing and PR teams to ensure consistent and impactful messaging across all channels.

Compliance and Facilities:

• Assist with the smooth-running of our on-site locations
• Ensure the company remains compliant with all relevant regulations and industry standards.
• Liaise with external legal counsel as needed to safeguard the company’s interests.

What do you need to apply?

• 2-3 years of experience in a high-growth start-up, management consulting, or a similar fast-paced environment where strategic thinking and operational execution are key.
• A strong educational background, preferably in business, economics, or a STEM-related field.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, with a keen eye for detail and a bias for action.
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to influence and build strong relationships across all levels of the organization.
• A passion for sustainability and a commitment to Vivobarefoot’s mission to reduce environmental impact.
• You'll be able to work from our HQ just outside of Bristol a few days a week and travel to London when needed.

Vivobarefoot believes that diversity is the essence of its ecosystem. We encourage diversity of thought and believe that it enables creativity and innovation to flourish. Our mission is to create a fair and equitable workplace where people thrive and are empowered to become their true selves at work. We believe that feedback and fostering collaboration will allow employees to blaze new trails and enjoy every aspect of the Vivobarefoot community.

Every opportunity for recruiting a new member of the Vivobarefoot family should be an opportunity for us to introduce fresh perspectives, talent and skills into our community. Therefore, our commitment is to recruit regardless of race, colour, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, mental health illness, disability, marital or parental status, national or social origin, gender identity, age or any other characteristics protected by law. We look forward to walking this barefoot journey with you!