Interim Medical Lead - Rare disease startup

JR United Kingdom; Guildford; Remote; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading startup in rare diseases seeks an experienced Interim Medical & Scientific Affairs Lead to oversee the UK launch of an orphan drug in ophthalmology. This role includes shaping governance, leading strategic initiatives, and ensuring successful pre-launch activities in a dynamic environment. Candidates must hold an ABPI Final Signatory certification and have strong medical leadership experience.

Qualifications

• ABPI Final Signatory certification is essential.
• Experienced in Medical Affairs leadership.
• Exposure to rare diseases or orphan drugs is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead Medical & Scientific Affairs for UK launch of a rare disease therapy.
• Shape medical governance framework and drive scientific strategy.
• Support early access and engagement ahead of the launch in 2026.

Skills

Leadership

Medical Affairs

Strategic Planning

Governance

Education

ABPI Final Signatory certification

Degree in Life Sciences or relevant field

Job description

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Interim Medical Lead - Rare disease startup, Guildford

Location: Guildford, United Kingdom

Job Details:

• Client: wax.
• 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 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 duration: approximately 6–9 months, through to post-launch readiness.

If interested, please contact us to arrange a confidential discussion.

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