Fractional CEO

Krug Associates; Leeds; On-site; GBP 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A global boutique specializing in life sciences headhunting seeks an experienced Chief Executive Officer for a seed-stage biotech company in Leeds. The successful candidate will guide the company's expansion, shaping its vision and ensuring financing and partnerships to advance critical programs. Ideal applicants will have a Ph.D./M.D./M.B.A. and proven experience in fundraising and advancing biotech therapies. This role presents a unique opportunity to lead in a dynamic environment and inspire a high-performing team.

Qualifications

• C-suite experience building a biotech from early stage through Series A+.
• Proven ability to raise capital and establish pharma partnerships.
• Success in advancing antibody-based therapies through research stages.

Responsibilities

• Set and execute corporate and scientific strategy.
• Advance an integrated discovery platform.
• Select and progress lead antibody assets.
• Mentor a multidisciplinary team.
• Secure seed and Series A funding.
• Build partnerships with academic and industry experts.
• Represent the organisation to investors.
• Establish governance and performance frameworks.

Skills

Drug development leadership

Fundraising

Team mentorship

Strategic partnership building

Education

Ph.D., M.D., M.B.A., or equivalent

Job description

Krug Associates is a global boutique specializing in life sciences headhunting, delivering top executive and board-level talent uniquely suited to drive client success.

We are delighted to partner with a seed-stage biotech company in the search for a Chief Executive Officer. On behalf of our client, we are seeking a seasoned drug development leader with deep expertise in I&I and rare diseases, along with a strong track record of successful fundraising and a well-established investor network.

The Opportunity

This role offers the chance to guide a fast-emerging European biotech through a critical phase of expansion. The CEO will shape corporate vision, translate platform insights into a focused R&D roadmap, and secure the financing and partnerships necessary to advance breakthrough antibody programs toward preclinical and early clinical milestones.

Key Responsibilities

• Set and execute a clear corporate and scientific strategy aligned with high-value therapeutic opportunities.
• Advance an integrated discovery platform that combines computational, translational, and biological capabilities.
• Select and progress lead antibody assets into preclinical and early clinical development.
• Recruit, mentor, and inspire a high-performing multidisciplinary team.
• Secure seed and Series A funding and ensure effective resource allocation.
• Build partnerships with academic groups, industry collaborators, and key opinion leaders.
• Represent the organisation to investors and the broader scientific community.
• Establish robust operational, governance, and performance frameworks.

Qualifications

• Ph.D., M.D., M.B.A., or equivalent experience suitable for leading a cutting-edge biotech.
• Prior C-suite experience building a biotech from early stage through Series A+.
• Proven ability to raise institutional / strategic venture capital and establish pharma partnerships.
• Demonstrated success advancing antibody-based or biological therapies through preclinical and early clinical stages.

Preferred Profile

• Leadership-level familiarity with AI / ML applications in drug discovery.
• Understanding of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases from a scientific or strategic perspective.
• Experience securing non-dilutive funding in Europe or similar environments.