Role Overview for VP, Clinical Development with an Oncology Biotech – San Diego, CA
JRG Partners is exclusively representing a pioneering, clinical-stage oncology biotechnology company based in the vibrant life sciences hub of San Diego, CA. Our client is at the forefront of developing next-generation therapies designed to transform the treatment landscape for cancer patients. With a robust pipeline of innovative assets and a culture of scientific excellence, they are poised for significant growth and impact. We are seeking a visionary and experienced Vice President (VP) of Clinical Development to join their executive leadership team and steer the clinical strategy and execution for their entire oncology portfolio.
This is a career-defining opportunity for a strategic leader to assume ultimate responsibility for the design, execution, and interpretation of clinical trials that will shape the future of the company. Reporting directly to the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), the VP of Clinical Development will be a pivotal figure, translating groundbreaking science into life-changing medicines.
You will provide medical and scientific leadership, build and mentor a world-class clinical development team, and serve as the primary clinical spokesperson for the company with regulatory agencies, investigators, and the broader scientific community. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with deep oncology expertise, a proven track record of successful drug development, and the leadership acumen to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced biotech environment. You will not only oversee programs but will actively contribute to the corporate strategy, influencing key decisions that will drive the company’s long-term success.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Clinical Development with an Oncology Biotech – San Diego, CA
The VP, Clinical Development will be accountable for a wide range of strategic and operational duties critical to the advancement of the company’s pipeline. Key responsibilities include:
Clinical Development Strategy
Architect and implement comprehensive, global clinical development plans for all oncology assets, from first-in-human studies through to registration and post-marketing commitments. Ensure that clinical strategies are innovative, scientifically sound, and aligned with corporate objectives and the target product profile (TPP).
Trial Design and Execution
Provide expert oversight for the design, implementation, and execution of all clinical trials (Phase I-IV). This includes protocol development, site selection, patient recruitment strategies, and ensuring trials are conducted on time, within budget, and in strict adherence to GCP (Good Clinical Practice) guidelines, ICH regulations, and other global standards.
Leadership and Team Management
Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing team of clinical development professionals, including clinical scientists, medical directors, and clinical operations staff. Foster a collaborative, results-oriented culture that prioritizes scientific rigor, patient safety, and innovation.
Regulatory Leadership
Serve as the lead clinical representative in interactions with global health authorities, including the FDA, EMA, and others. Lead the preparation and review of the clinical sections of all regulatory submissions, such as Investigational New Drug (IND) applications, New Drug Applications (NDAs), Biologics License Applications (BLAs), and responses to regulatory inquiries.
Data Interpretation and Communication
Oversee the analysis, interpretation, and reporting of clinical trial data. Ensure the timely and accurate communication of study results through publications, presentations at major medical conferences, and internal reports. Effectively articulate the clinical value proposition to internal and external stakeholders.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Act as a key partner within the executive team, working seamlessly with leaders in Research, Preclinical Development, Regulatory Affairs, Biostatistics, CMC, and Commercial. Ensure tight integration of clinical development activities with the broader drug development process.
External Stakeholder Engagement
Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs), principal investigators, academic partners, and patient advocacy groups to ensure clinical programs are well-informed, relevant, and effectively executed. Chair clinical advisory boards and steering committees.
Safety and Pharmacovigilance
Hold ultimate responsibility for patient safety across all clinical programs. Oversee the medical monitoring of clinical trials and collaborate with the safety/pharmacovigilance team to ensure appropriate safety surveillance and risk management plans are in place.
Budget and Resource Planning
Develop and manage the annual clinical development budget, ensuring efficient allocation of financial and human resources to meet program milestones and corporate goals.
Requirements for the VP, Clinical Development with an Oncology Biotech – San Diego, CA
The successful candidate will be a seasoned physician-scientist with extensive experience leading oncology programs in the biopharmaceutical industry. The specific qualifications include:
Education
An M.D. is required. An advanced degree (PhD, MPH) is a plus. Board Certification in Medical Oncology or Hematology/Oncology is strongly preferred.
Industry Experience
A minimum of 12-15 years of progressive experience in clinical development within the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry, with at least 7 years in a leadership capacity managing direct reports and clinical programs.
Oncology Expertise
Deep scientific and clinical expertise in oncology is essential. Broad experience across different tumor types and therapeutic modalities (e.g., small molecules, biologics, cell therapy, immuno-oncology) is highly desirable.
Proven Track Record
Demonstrated success in leading clinical programs from early development (Phase I) through to late-stage development (Phase III) and successful regulatory approval (NDA/BLA).
Regulatory Acumen
Extensive experience interacting with global health authorities (FDA, EMA) and a thorough understanding of the global regulatory landscape for oncology drug development.
Leadership and Influence
Exceptional leadership skills with a proven ability to build, mentor, and inspire high-performing teams. Must possess the ability to think strategically and influence decision-making at all levels of the organization.
Communication Skills
Outstanding verbal, written, and presentation skills. The ability to distill complex scientific concepts and communicate them clearly to a variety of audiences is critical.
Strategic and Analytical Mindset
Strong strategic thinking capabilities, with the ability to analyze complex data, identify key insights, and make sound, data-driven decisions.
Adaptability
A ‘roll-up-your-sleeves’ attitude, comfortable working in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment where agility and a sense of urgency are paramount.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
- A competitive base salary and an attractive annual performance-based bonus.
- A significant equity stake in the company through stock options, providing a meaningful opportunity for ownership and long-term wealth creation.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
- A robust 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
- Generous paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and paid company holidays, to support work-life balance.
- Relocation assistance for exceptional candidates moving to the San Diego area.
- Support for professional development, including attendance at scientific conferences and continuing education.
- The opportunity to work in a dynamic, mission-driven culture with a team of passionate and talented colleagues dedicated to conquering cancer.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is proud to be the exclusive recruitment partner for this critical leadership role. We are seeking a transformative leader who is passionate about advancing the field of oncology and improving the lives of patients. If your experience and aspirations align with this unique opportunity, we invite you to begin a confidential discussion with us.
To apply, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications. For more information about our expertise in this sector, please visit our practice page. Learn more about our Life Sciences & Biotechnology practice and apply today.
