Chief Executive Officer

Morgan Prestwich - Life Science & Healthcare Executive Search; Greater London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job description

Job Description: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) - Biotech Startup

Client Overview

Our client is a cutting-edge biotech startup poised for a Series A fundraising round, focused on pioneering therapeutics to address critical unmet medical needs. With a promising pipeline nearing the pre-clinical and Investigational New Drug (IND) phase, they are seeking a visionary leader to drive their next phase of growth.

Position: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Location: England

Role Summary

Our client seeks an accomplished CEO to spearhead their biotech startup through a pivotal Series A raise and the pre-clinical/IND development stages. The ideal candidate brings extensive experience in securing venture funding and leading biotech companies through early-stage R&D and regulatory milestones.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Vision: Formulate and implement a robust business strategy to achieve Series A funding, advance the therapeutic pipeline, and meet pre-clinical and IND objectives.
• Fundraising Leadership: Drive fundraising initiatives, including developing investor materials, pitching to venture capital firms, and cultivating relationships with investors and strategic partners.
• Pipeline Oversight: Guide the progression of drug candidates through pre-clinical studies, ensuring compliance with IND submission requirements and regulatory standards.
• Team Leadership: Build and mentor a high-caliber team of scientists, regulatory specialists, and operational staff to foster innovation and operational success.
• Stakeholder Management: Engage with investors, board members, scientific advisors, and regulatory bodies to align on goals and maintain strong partnerships.
• Financial Stewardship: Oversee budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation to optimize capital efficiency and support strategic priorities.
• Regulatory Navigation: Partner with regulatory teams to craft and execute a strategy for IND submission and interactions with the FDA and global regulators.
• Brand Positioning: Elevate the company’s profile in the biotech industry through strategic communication, partnerships, and thought leadership.

Qualifications

• Experience:
• 10+ years of senior leadership experience, including at least 5 years in a C-level position in a biotech or life sciences organization.
• Demonstrated success in raising Series A or comparable funding rounds, with an established investor network.
• Proven expertise in advancing biotech programs through pre-clinical development and IND submission.
• Technical Knowledge: In-depth understanding of biotech R&D, pre-clinical study design, and regulatory frameworks for IND applications.
• Leadership Skills: Track record of leading diverse teams, fostering collaboration, and driving results in a dynamic startup environment.
• Communication: Outstanding ability to convey complex scientific and business concepts to investors, regulators, and other stakeholders.
• Education: Advanced degree (PhD, MD, or MBA) in biotechnology, life sciences, or business is preferred.
• Network: Strong connections with venture capitalists, biotech accelerators, and industry influencers.

Preferred Attributes

• Entrepreneurial drive and passion for advancing biotech innovation.
• Adaptability to navigate the challenges of a fast-evolving startup.
• Expertise in negotiating partnerships, licensing agreements, or collaborations.
• Knowledge of intellectual property strategies in biotechnology.