Role Overview for Chief Scientific Officer – Minneapolis, MN
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a pioneering medical device company at the forefront of healthcare innovation. We are conducting an exclusive search for a transformative Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) to be based in their corporate headquarters in the vibrant MedTech hub of Minneapolis, MN. This is a career-defining opportunity for a visionary scientific leader to shape the future of medical technology, drive a culture of groundbreaking research, and lead a world-class team dedicated to developing life-changing products.
The Chief Scientific Officer is a critical member of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer. You will be the ultimate authority on the company’s scientific and technological direction, responsible for the entire research and development (R&D) pipeline, from initial ideation and discovery through to product launch and post-market surveillance. Your leadership will be instrumental in defining our client’s strategic roadmap, securing their position as an industry leader, and ensuring a continuous stream of innovative, commercially successful products that meet the highest standards of safety and efficacy.
We are seeking an individual with a profound understanding of the medical device landscape, a history of successful product commercialization, and the strategic acumen to navigate the complex regulatory environment. You will be a mentor, a strategist, and an innovator, inspiring your teams to push the boundaries of what’s possible in medical science. Your work will directly impact patient outcomes and solidify the company’s legacy of excellence. If you are a passionate and experienced R&D executive ready to take on the challenge of leading a dynamic organization to new heights, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Scientific Officer – Minneapolis, MN
The Chief Scientific Officer will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, including but not limited to:
Strategic R&D Leadership
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive scientific and R&D strategy that aligns with the company’s long-term business objectives. Identify new technological opportunities, market trends, and areas for innovation to build a robust and competitive product pipeline.
Pipeline and Portfolio Management
Oversee the entire product development lifecycle for all projects, from concept feasibility and design control to clinical trials, regulatory submission, and commercialization. Prioritize projects and allocate resources effectively to maximize return on investment.
Team Leadership and Development
Lead, mentor, and expand a multi-disciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and clinical researchers. Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture that encourages creativity, accountability, and scientific rigor.
Regulatory and Quality Compliance
Ensure all R&D activities adhere to the highest standards of quality and are in full compliance with global regulatory requirements, including FDA, CE, and other international bodies. Provide scientific leadership during regulatory interactions and submissions.
Intellectual Property Strategy
Direct the company’s intellectual property strategy, working with legal counsel to identify, protect, and expand a strong portfolio of patents and trademarks that provide a sustainable competitive advantage.
Budget and Financial Oversight
Develop and manage the annual R&D budget, ensuring fiscal responsibility and the efficient allocation of capital to key strategic initiatives. Present financial and project updates to the executive team and Board of Directors.
External Collaboration and Thought Leadership
Act as the primary scientific spokesperson for the company. Build and maintain strong relationships with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs), academic institutions, research partners, and industry experts. Represent the company at scientific conferences and in publications.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Work closely with other executive leaders, including the CEO, COO, and Chief Commercial Officer, to ensure seamless integration of R&D with manufacturing, marketing, sales, and business development functions.
Technology Assessment and Due Diligence
Evaluate external technologies, licensing opportunities, and potential M&A targets to supplement the internal R&D pipeline and accelerate growth.
Requirements for the Chief Scientific Officer – Minneapolis, MN
The ideal candidate will possess a unique blend of scientific expertise, business acumen, and inspirational leadership qualities. The following qualifications are essential for success in this role:
Educational Background
An advanced degree (Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent) in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline such as Biomedical Engineering, Molecular Biology, Chemistry, or a related field is required.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in the medical device industry, with at least 10 years in a senior R&D leadership role (e.g., VP of R&D, Senior Director) with significant strategic and budgetary responsibilities.
Product Commercialization Track Record
Demonstrated success in leading teams to develop and commercialize multiple complex medical devices, preferably Class II and Class III products, from concept to market launch.
Regulatory Expertise
In-depth knowledge of global medical device regulations and standards, including FDA QSR (21 CFR 820), ISO 13485, and risk management (ISO 14971). Extensive experience with various regulatory approval pathways, including 510(k) and Premarket Approval (PMA) is mandatory.
Strategic Vision
Proven ability to think strategically, anticipate future trends, and translate scientific and technical concepts into a clear corporate vision and actionable product roadmap.
Leadership and Communication Skills
Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to inspire, motivate, and develop large, diverse teams. Superior written and verbal communication skills, with the capacity to present complex information clearly to a variety of audiences, including investors, board members, and regulatory agencies.
Business Acumen
Strong financial and business acumen, with experience in budget management, resource allocation, and evaluating the commercial viability of new technologies. Experience with M&A due diligence is highly desirable.
Location
Must be willing to work on-site at the company’s headquarters in Minneapolis, MN. A comprehensive relocation package is available for the right candidate.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
Executive Compensation
A competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus.
Long-Term Incentives
A substantial equity package (stock options and/or RSUs) to ensure alignment with the company’s long-term success.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents with low employee contributions.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match.
Paid Time Off
An executive-level paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and paid company holidays.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive, white-glove relocation package to assist with your move to the Minneapolis area.
Professional Development
A generous budget for attending industry conferences, continuing education, and other professional development opportunities.
Executive Wellness
Access to wellness programs, an executive physical program, and other perks designed to support your health and well-being.
How to Apply
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained for this Chief Scientific Officer search. We are committed to a confidential, thorough, and efficient recruitment process. If you are a visionary scientific leader with a passion for innovation in the medical device sector and your background aligns with the requirements outlined above, we encourage you to apply.
To express your interest, please submit your curriculum vitae and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and strategic vision for this role. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. To learn more about our expertise in recruiting top talent for the healthcare technology sector, please visit our Medical Device & Technology Executive Search page.
We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how you can make a transformative impact on the future of healthcare with our client.
