In January 2025, the Prime Minister launched the AI Opportunities Action Plan, placing artificial intelligence at the centre of the UK’s economic and national security strategy. The Sovereign AI Fund sits at the heart of this mission, with a clear mandate: to identify, back and scale the companies that will define the UK’s position in one of the most consequential technologies of our time.
Backed by up to £500 million, the Fund exists to turn ambition into action, supporting high-potential AI startups and scaleups to become national champions and strengthening the UK’s sovereign capability in frontier AI.
We are hiring Investment Partners to help deliver this. This is a role for individuals who want to operate at the centre of decision-making. You will find the most important opportunities, form a clear view on their potential, and act decisively to back them. The environment is fast-moving and often ambiguous, with a simple expectation: exercise sound judgment and deliver outcomes that matter.
What you’ll do
- Build a high-quality pipeline of AI companies by working deep in the ecosystem and earning access to the most important opportunities
- Lead investments end-to-end, from first engagement through to execution, forming conviction quickly and driving rigorous diligence
- Assess companies with a clear lens on both commercial potential and strategic importance, understanding where real advantage lies
- Work closely with founders post-investment, supporting them as they scale and helping them navigate opportunities across government and industry
- Help shape how the Fund operates, contributing to investment strategy, processes and standards as the organisation grows
Who this is for
This role is for individuals with a strong track record in investing or building within the AI ecosystem who want to apply their judgment in a more consequential setting. You have experience in venture capital, early stage investing or deep tech, and have played a meaningful role in investment decisions or company building. You can engage with technical detail and distinguish genuine innovation from hype without relying on consensus.
You move quickly, think clearly under uncertainty, and take ownership of decisions. Most importantly, you are motivated by the opportunity to apply your skills to something beyond financial return – shaping what the UK builds and where it leads in AI.
Why do this
AI will define the next era of economic growth and national capability. The question is not whether that future arrives, but who shapes it. This role is an opportunity to help ensure the UK is not simply a participant, but a leader.
What we offer
- Fixed-term contract (24 months) – please feel free to ask about this
- 28.97% pension contribution on top of salary
- Generous parental leave (up to 39 weeks full pay + option for additional unpaid time)
- 25 days annual leave + 1 additional day per year of service
- Hybrid working with flexibility for occasional remote work abroad
- Discounts and benefits for cycling to work, dental insurance, donations and retail/gyms
How to apply
Please email eliza.cudmore@dsit.gov.uk with the subject title ‘Investment Partner Application’ your CV and a short statement on why you’re interested in becoming an Investment Partner of Sovereign AI.
Appointment is conditional on successfully completing UK Government SC clearance. You should normally have been resident in the UK for 2 of the past 5 years.
