Interim Medical Lead - Rare disease startup

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

Job summary

An innovative rare disease startup in Hemel Hempstead is searching for an Interim Medical & Scientific Affairs Lead. This strategic role requires an experienced ABPI Final Signatory to drive scientific engagement and prepare for the UK launch of a first-in-class therapy in ophthalmology, ensuring effective governance and partnership across functions. The position is fully remote with occasional travel, and the contract is expected to last for 6–9 months.

Qualifications

• Experience leading Medical & Scientific Affairs function.
• Exposure to rare diseases or orphan drugs is a plus.
• Background in ophthalmology is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Medical & Scientific Affairs for the launch of an orphan therapy.
• Drive scientific strategy and medical governance framework.
• Engage cross-functionally for successful pre-launch.

Skills

Medical Affairs leadership

Strategic thinking

Scientific engagement

Education

ABPI Final Signatory certification

Experience in Rare Diseases

Job description

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Interim Medical Lead - Rare disease startup, Hemel Hempstead

Client: wax.

Location:

Hemel Hempstead, 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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