Interim Medical Lead - Rare disease startup

wax.; North East; Remote; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare start-up is seeking an experienced Interim Medical & Scientific Affairs Lead to spearhead the UK launch of a pioneering therapy in ophthalmology. This strategic role involves shaping medical governance and engaging cross-functionally for early access and successful launch, perfect for those with a background in rare diseases and ABPI certification.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in a medical affairs role.
• Experience with rare diseases or orphan drugs is advantageous.
• Familiarity with Compassionate Use or Named Patient Programs preferred.

Responsibilities

• Shape the medical governance framework for the UK launch.
• Drive scientific strategy and partner cross-functionally.
• Support early access initiatives and governance.

Skills

Leadership in Medical Affairs

Governance

Scientific Engagement

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

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