Interim Medical Lead - Rare disease startup

JR United Kingdom; Brighton; Remote; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK-based company is seeking an Interim Medical & Scientific Affairs Lead to oversee the launch of a revolutionary rare disease therapy in ophthalmology. This strategic role involves shaping governance and scientific engagement while operating in a startup environment. Ideal candidates will possess ABPI Final Signatory certification and have strong leadership experience in Medical Affairs.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in Medical Affairs with strategic responsibilities.
• Exposure to rare diseases and orphan drugs is advantageous.
• Experience in Compassionate Use or Named Patient Programme is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Medical & Scientific Affairs function for a UK therapy launch.
• Shape the medical governance framework and drive scientific strategy.
• Engage cross-functionally during the pre-launch phase.

Skills

Leadership in Medical Affairs

Strategic Engagement

Scientific Governance

Education

ABPI Final Signatory certification

Job description

Interim Medical & Scientific Affairs Lead (Final Signatory)

Location: UK/Remote

Start: June/July 2025

Focus: Rare Disease | Ophthalmology

An exciting opportunity for an experienced ABPI Final Signatory to lead the Medical & Scientific Affairs function for the UK launch of a first-in-class orphan-designated therapy in ophthalmology.

This is a strategic interim role supporting early access, governance, and scientific engagement ahead of a landmark UK launch in 2026.

Key Points:

• ABPI Final Signatory certification (essential)
• Strong Medical Affairs leadership experience
• Rare disease or orphan drug exposure is a plus
• Compassionate Use or Named Patient Programme experience (nice to have)
• Ophthalmology background (nice to have)
• Fully remote with occasional travel

This is a start-up situation, so you will be shaping the medical governance framework, driving scientific strategy, and partnering cross-functionally to ensure a successful pre-launch phase within a lean, agile setup.

Contract: Approximately 6–9 months, through to post-launch readiness.

If interested, please get in touch to arrange a confidential discussion.