Director, External Opportunities & BD Strategy

Lakefront Biotherapeutics, Inc.; South San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 250,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Generous benefits

Job summary

Lakefront Biotherapeutics is seeking an experienced Associate Director/Director, Search & Evaluation to identify external programs, evaluate opportunities, and advance partnerships that strengthen the R&D pipeline.

The role requires deep scientific judgment, drug development know-how, and the ability to lead cross-functional diligence and strategic projects, with strong external networks and leadership.

Qualifications

• PhD, MD, PharmD, or equivalent advanced scientific/medical degree required.
• 6–10+ years in biotech/pharma, driving search & evaluation, BD, or strategy.
• Strong understanding of disease biology, drug development, and data interpretation.
• Proven ability to evaluate opportunities and advise under uncertainty.
• Experience leading cross-functional diligence or strategic projects.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and influencing skills.
• Robust external network across biotech ecosystem.

Responsibilities

• Identify external programs, platforms, and technologies aligned with Lakefront’s strategy.
• Evaluate biology, preclinical/clinical data, differentiation, and commercial potential.
• Synthesize information into concise, actionable recommendations for leadership.
• Partner with cross-functional diligence teams to identify risks and value drivers.
• Conduct landscape analyses to spot emerging science and therapeutic areas.
• Support transactions with valuation, deal structure, and negotiations.
• Represent the company at conferences and partnering meetings.
• Mentor junior team members and support professional growth.

Skills

Scientific judgment

Drug development

Strategic thinking

Cross-functional leadership

Analytical skills

Communication

External network

Education

PhD/MD/PharmD or equivalent advanced degree

Job description

Lakefront Biotherapeutics is seeking an experienced Associate Director/Director, Search & Evaluation to identify external programs, evaluate opportunities, and advance partnerships that strengthen the R&D pipeline.

The role requires deep scientific judgment, drug development know-how, and the ability to lead cross-functional diligence and strategic projects, with strong external networks and leadership.