Fractional CEO

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

Job summary

A leading executive search firm is partnering with a seed-stage biotech to find a Chief Executive Officer. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in drug development, particularly in immunology and rare diseases, along with a successful track record in fundraising and stakeholder engagement. This role will involve shaping the corporate vision, managing a multidisciplinary team, and securing funding to drive innovative antibody programs from concept to early clinical stages.

Qualifications

• Prior C-suite experience in biotech from early stage to Series A+.
• Proven ability to raise institutional venture capital.
• Success in advancing antibody-based therapies through clinical stages.

Responsibilities

• Set and execute corporate and scientific strategy.
• Build a high-performing multidisciplinary team.
• Secure seed and Series A funding.
• Build academic and industry partnerships.

Skills

Leadership in drug development

Fundraising expertise

Team management

Strategic partnership building

Knowledge of autoimmune diseases

Education

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

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.