Interim Medical Lead - Rare disease startup

JR United Kingdom; Chester; Remote; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading rare disease startup is seeking an Interim Medical & Scientific Affairs Lead. This strategic role offers the opportunity to shape the governance framework and scientific strategy in preparation for a groundbreaking therapy launch in ophthalmology. Candidates must have proven experience as an ABPI Final Signatory and a strong background in medical affairs leadership.

Qualifications

• Experience as an ABPI Final Signatory is essential.
• Leadership experience in Medical Affairs.
• Experience with rare diseases or orphan drugs is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Shape the medical governance framework and drive scientific strategy.
• Partner cross-functionally for successful pre-launch phase.
• Support early access, governance, and scientific engagement ahead of launch.

Skills

Leadership

Medical Affairs

Regulatory Compliance

Education

ABPI Final Signatory Certification

Job description

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Interim Medical Lead - Rare disease startup, Chester

Client: wax.

Location: Chester, United Kingdom

Job Category: Other

EU work permit required: Yes

Job Views:

3

Posted:

10.06.2025

Expiry Date:

25.07.2025

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 startup 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 you are interested, please get in touch to arrange a confidential discussion.

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