Role Overview for Chief Digital Officer – San Francisco, CA
JRG Partners is proud to announce an exclusive executive search for a transformative Chief Digital Officer (CDO) on behalf of our client, a globally recognized leader in the medical device industry. Based in the vibrant tech hub of San Francisco, CA, this is a career-defining opportunity to spearhead the digital evolution of a company committed to improving patient outcomes through groundbreaking technology. The successful candidate will be a visionary leader, a strategic thinker, and a digital native with a profound understanding of the healthcare ecosystem. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer and serving as a key member of the executive leadership team, the CDO will be the central architect of the company’s digital future.
You will be empowered to build and execute a comprehensive digital strategy that integrates cutting-edge technology across all facets of the organization—from R&D and manufacturing to commercial operations and patient engagement. This role is not merely about technology implementation; it is about fundamentally reimagining how the company innovates, competes, and delivers value in an increasingly connected world. You will be at the forefront of the MedTech revolution, leveraging data, AI, and IoT to create a new generation of smart medical devices and digital health solutions that redefine standards of care. If you are a passionate and proven executive ready to make a lasting impact on a global scale, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Digital Officer – San Francisco, CA
The Chief Digital Officer will have a broad and impactful mandate, driving change and innovation across the enterprise. Key responsibilities include:
Develop and Execute Enterprise Digital Strategy
You will craft and champion a cohesive, forward-thinking digital transformation roadmap that aligns with the company’s long-term strategic objectives. This involves identifying emerging digital trends, assessing competitive threats and opportunities, and securing executive buy-in for a multi-year plan that drives sustainable growth and market leadership.
Lead Digital Product Innovation
Oversee the entire lifecycle of digital health products and connected device ecosystems, from ideation and development to launch and commercialization. You will foster a culture of agile development and user-centric design to create intuitive, high-value solutions for patients, healthcare providers, and payers.
Build a World-Class Data & Analytics Capability
Establish and lead a center of excellence for data science and analytics. You will implement robust data governance policies and build a scalable data infrastructure to unlock actionable insights from disparate data sources, driving evidence-based decision-making in clinical development, commercial strategy, and operational efficiency.
Modernize Technology Infrastructure
Evaluate and evolve the company’s technology stack to ensure it is secure, scalable, and capable of supporting future digital ambitions. This includes championing the adoption of cloud platforms, AI/ML technologies, and IoT frameworks while ensuring seamless integration with existing enterprise systems.
Reimagine the Digital Customer Experience (CX)
Design and orchestrate a seamless, personalized digital journey for all stakeholders. You will leverage digital channels to enhance patient support, provide valuable education to clinicians, and streamline interactions with healthcare systems, ultimately building stronger relationships and brand loyalty.
Drive Commercial Digitalization
Partner with sales and marketing leadership to transform the go-to-market model. This includes developing sophisticated digital marketing campaigns, building direct-to-consumer or direct-to-provider e-commerce platforms, and equipping the sales force with advanced digital tools and analytics.
Champion a Digital-First Culture
Act as the primary evangelist for digital innovation within the organization. You will lead change management initiatives, promote digital literacy at all levels, and build, mentor, and inspire a high-performing team of digital experts dedicated to achieving the company’s vision.
Ensure Regulatory Compliance and Cybersecurity
Navigate the complex regulatory landscape of the medical device industry with expertise. You will ensure that all digital products and platforms adhere to the highest standards of safety, privacy, and security, including compliance with HIPAA, GDPR, and stringent FDA regulations for digital health.
Manage P&L and Strategic Partnerships
Assume full budgetary responsibility for the digital division, ensuring investments deliver a strong return. You will also identify and cultivate strategic partnerships with technology companies, startups, and academic institutions to accelerate innovation and expand the company’s digital ecosystem.
Requirements for the Chief Digital Officer – San Francisco, CA
The ideal candidate is a seasoned executive with a proven history of leading successful digital transformations within complex, regulated industries. We are seeking an individual with the following qualifications:
Executive Leadership Experience
A minimum of 15 years of professional experience, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., VP, SVP, CDO) overseeing digital strategy, product development, or technology functions for a large-scale organization.
Industry Expertise
Deep and demonstrable experience within the medical device, pharmaceutical, life sciences, or broader healthcare industry is essential. A thorough understanding of clinical workflows, reimbursement models, and the regulatory environment is required.
Educational Background
An advanced degree (MBA, MS, or PhD) in Business, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field is highly preferred.
Technical and Data Acumen
Strong fluency in modern digital technologies, including cloud computing (AWS, Azure, GCP), data analytics, artificial intelligence/machine learning, IoT, and cybersecurity principles. You must be able to hold credible conversations with technical teams and translate complex concepts for non-technical stakeholders.
Proven Track Record of Innovation
Demonstrable success in conceiving, developing, and launching successful digital products or services that have driven significant revenue growth or operational improvements. Experience with ‘Software as a Medical Device’ (SaMD) is a significant plus.
Strategic and Commercial Mindset
The ability to think strategically at the enterprise level, coupled with a strong commercial orientation. You must be adept at building business cases, managing a P&L, and linking digital initiatives to tangible business outcomes.
Exceptional Communication and Influence Skills
Superior verbal, written, and presentation skills with the ability to articulate a compelling vision and influence stakeholders across all levels, from the Board of Directors to individual contributors. You are a natural collaborator and change agent who can build consensus and drive alignment in a matrixed organization.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package, including:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary, an attractive annual performance-based bonus, and a significant long-term incentive package (equity/stock options).
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents, along with executive wellness programs and a generous health savings account (HSA) contribution.
Retirement Planning
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Work-Life Balance
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, paid holidays, and comprehensive parental leave programs.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the ideal candidate and their family.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for executive coaching, continuing education, and attendance at key industry conferences to ensure you remain at the forefront of your field.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is the exclusive retained search firm for this Chief Digital Officer position. All applications and inquiries will be handled with the utmost confidentiality. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive talent pool. To be considered for this pivotal leadership role, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and vision for the digital future of healthcare. For more information about our expertise in this sector, please visit our Healthcare & Life Sciences executive search practice page. Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how you can shape the future of medical technology.
