Senior Legal Director - R&D

MRA Search; Remote; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A fast-growing biopharma firm is seeking an experienced Senior Legal professional to support its R&D and clinical programmes. This strategic role involves advising on legal matters, drafting agreements, and providing guidance on IP and risk management. The ideal candidate has over 10 years' experience in life sciences and excellent communication skills. The role is largely remote, with occasional office attendance. For more details, please contact the assigned recruiter.

Qualifications

• 10+ years post-qualification experience in life sciences, biotech, or pharmaceuticals.
• Ability to manage a team and work in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience advising on legal matters related to R&D, clinical trials, and regulatory frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Advise on legal matters related to R&D and clinical trials.
• Draft and negotiate clinical trial agreements and collaborations.
• Provide strategic legal guidance on IP and risk management.

Skills

Excellent drafting skills

Strong communication skills

Cross-functional partnering

Deep understanding of clinical research

Influencing senior stakeholders

Education

10+ PQE

Job description

We are working exclusively with a fast-growing, science-driven biopharma company seeking an experienced Senior Legal professional to support its expanding R&D and clinical programmes. This is a high-impact, strategic role working directly with scientific, regulatory and commercial leaders across the business.

Reporting directly to the General Counsel you will manage one Senior Legal Manager and work across all areas of Research and Development. Some responsibilities include :

• Advising on all legal matters relating to R&D, clinical trials, regulatory strategy and drug development
• Drafting, reviewing and negotiating clinical trial agreements, research collaborations, licensing and technology transfer agreements
• Partnering with cross-functional teams including Clinical, Regulatory, Medical and Quality
• Providing strategic legal guidance on IP, risk management and emerging regulatory changes
• Supporting governance, policy development and senior stakeholder decision‑making

Ideal Candidate

• 10+ PQE with strong life sciences, biotech or pharmaceutical experience
• Deep understanding of clinical research, regulatory frameworks, and GxP environments
• Excellent drafting, communication and cross‑functional partnering skills
• Comfortable working in a fast-moving, agile, research‑focused environment
• Able to influence senior stakeholders and support scientific teams
• Managerial experience

The role will be remote with some office attendance as needed.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join an entrepreneurial and innovation‑lead environment. To find out more please contact Josh Hall at [e-mail]