Interim Medical Lead - Rare disease startup

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

Job summary

A leading healthcare startup is seeking an Interim Medical & Scientific Affairs Lead for a pivotal role in launching a rare disease therapy. Candidates must possess ABPI Final Signatory certification and have strong leadership experience in medical affairs. This contract position involves strategic governance and cross-functional collaboration in a dynamic, remote working environment. Join us to ensure a successful pre-launch phase!

Qualifications

• Experience with rare diseases or orphan drugs is a plus.
• Background in Ophthalmology preferred.
• Experience with Compassionate Use or Named Patient Programs is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Medical & Scientific Affairs for a first-in-class therapy launch.
• Shape the medical governance framework and drive scientific strategy.
• Engage in early access and governance strategies ahead of the product launch.

Skills

Leadership in Medical Affairs

Governance Framework Development

Strategic Planning

Cross-functional Collaboration

Education

ABPI Final Signatory Certification

Job description

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Interim Medical Lead - Rare disease startup, Maidstone

Client:

wax.

Location:

Maidstone, 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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