Lagos Part Time

IT & Telecoms Confidential

Chief Innovation Officer (CIO)
Location: Remote (Africa or Global)
Engagement: Part-Time (Flexible)
Compensation: 1% Equity (4-Year Vesting, 1-Year Cliff) + Commission-Based Rewards
Application Deadline: 20th of August 2025
Start Date:
Application: [email protected]
Afriquanna is an intelligent fashion-tech company redefining Africa’s fashion economy. We're building a smart, AI-powered platform that connects verified vendors and tailors to clients through digital measurement, escrow-secured payments, smart matching, logistics automation, and flexible finance.
We are currently operating in stealth mode and will gradually unveil our web presence. Our official launch is February 2026.
As we build toward that date, we are looking for a highly connected, globally experienced Chief Innovation Officer (CIO) to help us drive innovation, secure international investment, and scale strategically across Africa and beyond.
This is a part-time role that allows you to maintain other professional or business engagements while delivering high-impact results for Afriquanna.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Only apply if you meet the following criteria:
15+ years of experience, preferably in a Fortune 500 company or globally recognized equivalent
Proven experience leading product innovation, capital fundraising, or strategy at a global level.
A strong network within Silicon Valley, Y Combinator, or similar international venture ecosystems.
Key Responsibilities
Innovation & Product Strategy
* Lead the development of cutting-edge modules such as **AI-driven smart matching**, **digital body measurement**, **escrow-backed transactions**, and **smart logistics**

• Drive the integration of frontier technologies and scalable product architecture
• Collaborate with engineering and product teams to ensure end-to-end innovation alignment

Fundraising & Capital Strategy

• Prepare and present investor-ready materials, pitch decks, and business models
• Leverage your network to drive introductions, investor conversations, and capital commitments
• Help us access the right pre-seed, seed, and Series A opportunities globally

Growth & Expansion

• Oversee early-stage monetization, market validation, and customer adoption
• Position Afriquanna for sustainable growth and long-term industry leadership
• Support executive team in strategic alliances, partnerships, and global visibility

✅ Requirements

• 15+ years of experience in innovation, product development, or fundraising

* Prior role in a **venture-backed startup**, scale-up, or innovation-focused enterprise

• Strong understanding of AI, fashion-tech, logistics, fintech, or marketplace models
• Exceptional strategic thinking, communication, and execution skills

* Willingness to work in a **lean early-stage environment** with a focus on long-term upside
What You Get
* **1% equity**, with **4-year vesting and 1-year cliff** (Silicon Valley standard)
* **Commission-based compensation** for capital raised or strategic outcomes
* **Part-time and flexible role** to balance your current lifestyle and passions
* Early access to **executive perks**, international exposure, and founder-level influence

• The opportunity to shape and co-own what could be Africa’s first intelligent fashion-tech unicorn

How to Apply
To apply, please **send BOTH your CV and a Cover Letter** explaining why you are a fit for this role to: [email protected]
Note: Applications without both documents will not be reviewed.
Interested in Becoming a Co-Investor?
If you meet our leadership criteria and are also open to investing, we welcome aligned strategic investors to become long-term stakeholders in Afriquanna. Let us know in your cover letter if you’re open to this opportunity, and we’ll provide our investment deck and due diligence brief.
Join Us in Building Africa’s Fashion-Tech Future
Afriquanna is not just another startup it's a movement. Join us as we build something exceptional.
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