Interim Medical Lead - Rare disease startup

JR United Kingdom; Stoke-on-Trent; Remote; GBP 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare startup seeks an Interim Medical & Scientific Affairs Lead for the UK launch of a first-in-class orphan drug in ophthalmology. This strategic role requires an ABPI Final Signatory to shape medical governance and support the pre-launch phase, engaging cross-functionally in a lean, agile environment.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an ABPI Final Signatory.
• Strong leadership in Medical Affairs.
• Experience in rare diseases or orphan drugs is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead Medical & Scientific Affairs function for innovative therapy launch.
• Develop medical governance framework and drive scientific strategy.
• Support early access and governance for pre-launch activities.

Skills

Medical Affairs leadership

Strategic Planning

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

ABPI Final Signatory certification

Job description

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Interim Medical Lead - Rare disease startup, Stoke-on-Trent

Client: wax.

Location: Stoke-on-Trent, United Kingdom

Job Category: Other

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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 interested, please contact us to arrange a confidential discussion.

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