Fractional CEO

Krug Associates; Manchester; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A global boutique specializing in life sciences headhunting is partnering with a seed-stage biotech company to find a Chief Executive Officer. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in drug development, proven fundraising success, and the ability to lead a team through critical expansion phases. Responsibilities include setting corporate strategy, securing funding, and building industry partnerships. This position in Manchester, UK, is pivotal for advancing innovative therapeutic programs.

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.

Responsibilities

• Set and execute a clear corporate and scientific strategy.
• Advance an integrated discovery platform for drug development.
• Recruit, mentor, and inspire a high-performing multidisciplinary team.
• Secure funding and effective resource allocation.

Skills

Leadership in drug development

Fundraising expertise

Strong network with investors

Strategic partnership building

Knowledge of antibody-based therapies

Education

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

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.