Chief Executive Officer – Neuroscience CRO

LUKA GLOBAL; España; Presencial; EUR 150.000 - 250.000; Jornada completa

Descripción de la vacante

A specialized neuroscience organization in Spain is seeking a dynamic CEO to lead its transformation from research to a market-leading Contract Research Organization (CRO). The role requires strategic leadership, commercial growth, and operational scaling, emphasizing a proven record in biotech or pharmaceutical sectors. The successful candidate will be financially savvy, with strong team-building and P&L management skills, driving long-term growth and global recognition through innovation and partnerships.

Formación

• Proven ability to lead a high-growth organization while maintaining quality and integrity.
• Experience securing and managing complex contracts with biotech/pharma clients.
• Track record of building and leading high-performing teams.

Responsabilidades

• Define and execute a multi-year growth strategy for the organization.
• Lead business development and secure high-value contracts.
• Manage P&L and drive financial stability.

Conocimientos

Leadership

Commercial Acumen

Scientific Integrity

P&L Management

Team Building

Educación

Advanced degree in Life Sciences, Medicine, or Business (MBA preferred)

Descripción del empleo

We are seeking a dynamic and visionary CEO to lead the commercial transformation of a specialized neuroscience organization, transitioning it from research-focused operations into a market-leading, service-oriented Contract Research Organization (CRO). This is a rare opportunity to combine scientific insight with strategic leadership, scaling a high-value business serving global biotech and pharmaceutical clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Define and execute a multi-year growth strategy, transforming the organization from bespoke research projects into a scalable, standardized service portfolio.
• Commercial Growth: Lead business development, securing Master Service Agreements (MSAs) and high-value contracts with biotech and pharmaceutical clients worldwide.
• Scientific-Commercial Interface: Partner with the CSO/technical leadership to translate complex neuroscience capabilities into client-ready services, ensuring offerings remain at the cutting edge while commercially viable.
• Organizational Scaling: Restructure internal operations, talent, and processes to support scalable, efficient, and high-quality delivery across all projects.
• Financial Oversight: Manage P&L, optimize pricing, and implement margin-focused models to drive self-sustaining revenue and long-term financial stability.
• Market Positioning: Build the organization’s reputation as a trusted partner in neuroscience CRO services, leveraging strategic collaborations, thought leadership, and value-focused messaging.
• Stakeholder Management: Serve as primary interface for investors, partners, and clients, aligning scientific milestones with commercial objectives.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Revenue growth from recurring partnerships and long-term contracts.
• Launch and successful adoption of a standardized service portfolio.
• Client satisfaction scores and operational delivery excellence (on-time, on-budget).
• Expansion of strategic partnerships and a robust business development pipeline.
• Operational efficiency and scalable infrastructure to support continued growth.

Candidate Profile

• Proven ability to lead a high-growth organization, scaling operations while maintaining quality and scientific integrity.
• Strong commercial acumen with experience securing and managing complex contracts with biotech/pharma clients.
• Track record of building, mentoring, and leading high-performing teams in a scientific or technical environment.
• Skilled at bridging the scientific-commercial divide, translating technical capabilities into market-ready services.
• Financially savvy, with P&L responsibility and experience implementing margin-focused, sustainable business models.

Experience & Education

• Advanced degree in Life Sciences, Medicine, or Business (MBA or equivalent executive leadership training preferred).
• Demonstrated credibility in neuroscience or related preclinical research environments.
• Exposure to international markets and the ability to operate effectively in a remote and cross-cultural context.
• Experience with investor relations, strategic partnerships, and organizational transformation.
• Visionary, strategic thinker with the ability to anticipate market trends.
• Collaborative, inspiring leader capable of working with strong scientific co-founders.
• Persuasive communicator able to engage clients, investors, and internal teams.
• Resilient, decisive, and results-driven with a clear focus on growth and operational excellence.

This is an opportunity to define the future of a specialized neuroscience CRO, combining scientific excellence with commercial impact to drive long-term growth and global recognition.

Apply now to lead, transform, and make an impact in a rapidly evolving industry.