Role Overview for VP, Sales & BD with a Biopharma Start-up – Cambridge, MA
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a pioneering, venture-backed biopharmaceutical start-up poised to redefine the therapeutic landscape in its target area. Located in the vibrant heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts, our client is at the forefront of developing novel therapies for complex diseases. With a robust scientific platform, a strong pipeline, and significant funding, they are entering a pivotal growth phase and are seeking an exceptional executive to join their leadership team as the Vice President of Sales & Business Development.
This is a rare and compelling opportunity for a visionary commercial leader to build the sales and business development functions from the ground up. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, the VP of Sales & BD will be a key architect of the company’s commercial future. You will be responsible for crafting and executing a comprehensive strategy to drive revenue, establish a market presence, and forge strategic alliances that will accelerate the company’s growth and mission. This role demands a unique blend of strategic foresight, entrepreneurial spirit, and hands-on execution. You will not only set the vision but also roll up your sleeves to build the necessary infrastructure, processes, and team.
The ideal candidate is a seasoned biopharma executive with a proven track record of success in both sales leadership and complex business development transactions. You thrive in the fast-paced, ambiguous environment of a start-up and possess the scientific acumen to engage with key opinion leaders (KOLs) and potential partners. Your leadership will be instrumental in transitioning the company from a clinical-stage organization to a fully integrated commercial entity. This position offers a significant equity stake and the chance to make a profound impact on patient lives while shaping the trajectory of a future industry leader within the world’s most prominent biotechnology innovation hub.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Sales & BD with a Biopharma Start-up – Cambridge, MA
As the Vice President of Sales & Business Development, you will have a broad and impactful remit. Your core responsibilities will encompass strategic planning, tactical execution, team building, and external relationship management across the commercial spectrum.
Sales Strategy & Commercial Launch Excellence:
- Develop, articulate, and execute the comprehensive commercialization and sales strategy for the company’s lead assets, ensuring alignment with overall corporate objectives.
- Architect the go-to-market plan, including market segmentation, customer targeting, product positioning, messaging, and pricing strategies.
- Lead all pre-launch and launch activities, coordinating closely with Regulatory, Medical Affairs, and Marketing to ensure a seamless and successful product introduction.
- Establish and manage key performance indicators (KPIs) for the sales function, including revenue targets, market share, and sales force effectiveness.
- Build and cultivate strong, influential relationships with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs), patient advocacy groups, and major healthcare systems.
- Oversee the development of sales training programs, promotional materials, and all necessary commercial infrastructure to support a high-performing sales organization.
Business Development & Strategic Partnerships:
- Lead the identification, evaluation, and pursuit of strategic business development opportunities, including in-licensing, out-licensing, co-development, co-promotion, and other strategic collaborations.
- Conduct thorough due diligence on potential partners and assets, working in concert with R&D, finance, and legal teams to assess scientific, clinical, and commercial viability.
- Structure, negotiate, and close complex deals that create significant value and align with the company’s long-term strategic goals.
- Build and maintain a robust network of contacts across the biopharmaceutical industry, investment community, and academia to ensure a steady pipeline of partnership opportunities.
- Prepare and deliver compelling presentations and business cases to the executive team and Board of Directors to secure approval for proposed transactions.
- Manage ongoing alliances and partnerships to ensure objectives are met and relationships remain strong and productive.
Leadership & Team Development:
- Recruit, hire, train, and mentor a world-class team of sales and business development professionals.
- Foster a culture of high performance, collaboration, accountability, and entrepreneurialism within the commercial organization.
- Provide strong leadership and clear direction, setting ambitious goals and empowering the team to achieve them.
- Serve as a key member of the company’s executive leadership team, contributing to the overall corporate strategy and direction.
- Represent the company with the highest level of integrity and professionalism at industry conferences, investor meetings, and partnership discussions.
Requirements for the VP, Sales & BD with a Biopharma Start-up – Cambridge, MA
We are seeking a candidate who not only meets the technical qualifications but also possesses the drive, passion, and cultural fit to succeed in a dynamic start-up environment.
Educational & Professional Experience:
- An advanced degree (MBA, PhD, MD, or PharmD) is highly preferred. A Bachelor’s degree in a life science, business, or a related field is required.
- A minimum of 15+ years of progressive commercial experience within the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry.
- Extensive experience in sales, marketing, and business development, with a clear track record of increasing responsibility and leadership.
- Demonstrable success in leading at least one major product launch within a specialized therapeutic area (e.g., oncology, immunology, rare diseases).
- Proven experience in a start-up or small, high-growth biotech company is essential. You must be comfortable with ambiguity and building functions from the ground up.
- A strong deal sheet showcasing successful negotiation and execution of a variety of business development transactions (e.g., licensing, M&A, strategic partnerships).
- Experience building and leading high-performing commercial teams is mandatory.
Skills & Attributes:
Strategic Visionary
Ability to think strategically and long-term, translating corporate goals into actionable commercial plans.
Entrepreneurial Mindset
A self-starter with a hands-on, proactive approach. Possesses the agility to pivot and adapt in a rapidly changing environment.
Exceptional Leader
An inspiring leader who can attract top talent, motivate teams, and foster a positive and productive culture.
Master Negotiator
Superior negotiation skills with the ability to structure and close complex, high-value deals.
Scientific Acumen
Strong ability to understand and articulate complex scientific and clinical data to a variety of audiences.
Outstanding Communicator
Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills. Ability to communicate effectively with internal teams, external partners, investors, and the Board of Directors.
Financial Acuity
Proficient in financial modeling, forecasting, and valuation analysis to support commercial and BD initiatives.
Extensive Network
A deep and active network of contacts within the biopharma industry, including KOLs, potential partners, and service providers.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client believes in rewarding its employees for their commitment and contributions to building a transformative company. The compensation and benefits package is designed to be highly competitive and to attract and retain top-tier talent.
Competitive Compensation
A highly attractive base salary and a significant annual performance-based bonus.
Meaningful Equity
A substantial equity stake (stock options) in the company, providing the opportunity for significant financial reward aligned with the company’s success.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Generous Time Off
A flexible and generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including company holidays, to support a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Growth
Ample opportunities for professional development, including attendance at key industry conferences and support for continued learning.
Inspiring Work Environment
A collaborative, innovative, and science-driven culture located in a state-of-the-art facility in the heart of the Cambridge biotech ecosystem.
How to Apply
This is a retained search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative commercial leader ready to build and scale a pioneering biopharma company, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this career-defining opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the role. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.
JRG Partners is a leader in executive search for the life sciences industry. We connect innovative companies with the visionary leaders who drive progress and create value. Learn more about our expertise in the life sciences sector by visiting our Life Sciences & Biotechnology Practice page. We look forward to reviewing your application.
