Role Overview for Chief Scientific Officer – Chicago, IL
JRG Partners is proud to conduct an exclusive executive search on behalf of our client, a dynamic and rapidly growing leader in the medical device industry. Based in the vibrant tech and healthcare hub of Chicago, IL, our client is at the forefront of developing groundbreaking technologies that significantly improve patient outcomes and redefine standards of care. They are seeking a visionary, strategic, and inspirational Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) to join their executive leadership team and steer the company’s scientific direction and research and development (R&D) initiatives.
This is a transformative opportunity for a seasoned scientific leader to make a substantial impact. The CSO will be the principal architect of the company’s innovation engine, responsible for overseeing the entire product development lifecycle from initial concept and discovery through to clinical validation, regulatory approval, and successful market launch.
You will be entrusted with building and mentoring a world-class, multi-disciplinary R&D organization, fostering a culture of scientific excellence, relentless curiosity, and collaborative innovation. As a key member of the executive team, you will work closely with the CEO and other C-suite leaders to shape the company’s long-term strategic plan, ensuring that its scientific and technological roadmap is perfectly aligned with its ambitious business objectives. Your leadership will be critical in navigating the complex scientific and regulatory landscapes, securing a robust intellectual property portfolio, and solidifying the company’s position as an undisputed industry pioneer.
This role demands a unique blend of profound scientific expertise, proven leadership acumen, and sharp business insight to drive the next wave of medical device innovation.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Scientific Officer – Chicago, IL
Strategic Scientific Leadership
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive and forward-thinking R&D and technology strategy that aligns with the company’s mission and commercial goals. Proactively identify and champion new scientific trends, technological advancements, and market opportunities to fuel a sustainable and high-value product pipeline.
Pipeline and Portfolio Management
Assume full ownership of the R&D pipeline, directing all phases of the product development process. Implement rigorous project management methodologies to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. Make critical go/no-go decisions based on robust data and strategic analysis.
Team Development and Mentorship
Lead, inspire, and grow a high-performing R&D organization comprised of scientists, engineers, clinicians, and technical staff. Foster a collaborative, innovative, and results-oriented culture. Act as a dedicated mentor, investing in the professional growth and development of team members at all levels.
Regulatory and Clinical Strategy
Collaborate intimately with the Regulatory Affairs and Clinical Affairs departments to design and implement effective strategies for global product approvals. Provide scientific oversight for the design and execution of pre-clinical and clinical trials, ensuring they generate the necessary data to support regulatory submissions and commercial claims.
Intellectual Property (IP) Management
Direct the company’s IP strategy to build and defend a formidable patent portfolio. Work alongside legal counsel to identify patentable inventions, oversee patent filings, and manage the company’s intellectual property assets to create a strong competitive advantage.
Cross-Functional Executive Collaboration
Serve as a key strategic partner to the CEO, Board of Directors, and other members of the executive team. Effectively communicate complex scientific concepts and R&D progress to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, including investors. Collaborate seamlessly with Commercial, Operations, and Finance teams to ensure successful product launches and lifecycle management.
Budgetary and Resource Oversight
Develop and manage the annual R&D budget, ensuring optimal allocation of capital, human resources, and technological assets. Champion investments in new technologies and infrastructure to maintain the company’s competitive edge.
External Innovation and Partnerships
Establish and maintain a strong network within the academic, clinical, and business communities. Identify and evaluate external innovation opportunities, including strategic partnerships, technology licensing, and potential M&A targets to augment the internal pipeline.
Scientific Ambassador
Represent the company as a senior scientific leader at major industry conferences, scientific advisory board meetings, and with key opinion leaders (KOLs). Publish research in peer-reviewed journals and present findings to enhance the company’s scientific credibility and brand reputation.
Requirements for the Chief Scientific Officer – Chicago, IL
Educational Background
An advanced degree (Ph.D. or M.D.) in a relevant scientific or engineering field such as Biomedical Engineering, Molecular Biology, Material Science, or a related discipline is required.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15-20 years of progressive experience within the medical device industry, with at least 10 years in a senior R&D leadership capacity (e.g., VP of R&D, Senior Director) with significant strategic and operational responsibilities.
Proven Track Record of Innovation
Demonstrable success in leading the development and commercialization of multiple innovative, Class II or Class III medical devices from concept to market launch. A history of overcoming significant technical and regulatory hurdles is essential.
Regulatory Acumen
Deep and practical understanding of the global regulatory landscape for medical devices. This includes extensive experience with FDA submissions (510(k), De Novo, PMA) and international equivalents (e.g., CE marking under MDR). The ideal candidate will have a proven ability in successfully navigating the FDA regulatory landscape.
Leadership and Management Skills
Exceptional leadership capabilities with a proven ability to recruit, build, and motivate high-performing, multi-disciplinary teams. A leadership style that is transparent, collaborative, and empowering.
Strategic and Business Insight
Strong business acumen with the ability to connect scientific possibilities with commercial realities. Experience with R&D budget management, resource allocation, and long-range strategic planning is mandatory.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills. The ability to distill and convey complex scientific information to a wide range of audiences, from engineers to board members and investors, is critical.
Problem-Solving Abilities
A creative and analytical thinker with a data-driven approach to problem-solving. Possesses the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and make sound decisions under pressure.
Location
The ability to be on-site at the Chicago, IL headquarters is required to provide hands-on leadership and foster a collaborative team environment.
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:
- Highly competitive executive base salary
- Substantial annual performance-based bonus
- Significant equity package with meaningful upside potential
- Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans
- 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match
- Generous paid time off (PTO) and company holidays
- Full relocation assistance package for qualified candidates
- Annual budget for professional development, conferences, and continued education
- A dynamic, innovative, and mission-driven company culture
How to Apply
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained for this critical Chief Scientific Officer search. We are seeking a truly exceptional leader to help guide our client through its next phase of growth and innovation. If you are a visionary scientific executive with a passion for developing life-changing medical technologies, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications. To learn more about our expertise in this space, please visit the JRG Partners’ Healthcare & Life Sciences Executive Search practice page. We look forward to connecting with you.
