Role Overview for VP, Clinical Development with an AI Drug Discovery Firm – San Francisco, CA
JRG Partners is proud to represent a revolutionary, venture-backed AI drug discovery company based in the heart of San Francisco’s biotech hub. Our client is at the vanguard of a new era in medicine, leveraging sophisticated artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computational biology to design and develop novel therapeutics for complex diseases with significant unmet medical needs. They are building a world-class organization founded on a culture of innovation, scientific rigor, and a shared passion for transforming patient outcomes. We are seeking a visionary and experienced Vice President of Clinical Development to join their executive leadership team and spearhead their clinical strategy and execution.
This is a career-defining opportunity for a strategic leader to build and shape the clinical development function from the ground up. The VP, Clinical Development will be the primary architect of the company’s clinical pipeline, responsible for translating groundbreaking, AI-generated scientific insights into robust clinical programs. You will provide the medical and scientific leadership necessary to guide novel drug candidates through all phases of clinical development, from first-in-human studies to pivotal trials and regulatory submission.
This role requires a unique blend of deep clinical and regulatory expertise, exceptional leadership capabilities, and a forward-thinking mindset to navigate the intersection of technology and clinical science. You will be instrumental in defining the clinical value proposition of the company’s assets and will play a pivotal role in shaping the company’s overall corporate strategy, interacting with the Board of Directors, investors, and key external stakeholders. If you are a driven, innovative clinical leader eager to make an indelible impact on the future of medicine, we invite you to consider this exceptional role.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Clinical Development with an AI Drug Discovery Firm – San Francisco, CA
Clinical Development Strategy
Develop and execute comprehensive, global clinical development plans for all pipeline assets, from preclinical transition through to post-marketing commitments. Design innovative and efficient clinical trial protocols that align with the corporate strategy and meet regulatory standards.
Trial Execution and Oversight
Provide senior-level oversight for the planning, execution, and interpretation of all clinical trials (Phase I-IV). Ensure trials are conducted on time, within budget, and in strict adherence to Good Clinical Practice (GCP), ICH guidelines, and all applicable global regulations.
Regulatory Leadership
Serve as the primary clinical representative in interactions with global health authorities, including the FDA, EMA, and others. Lead the clinical strategy and content development for major regulatory submissions, such as Investigational New Drug (IND) applications, New Drug Applications (NDAs), and Biologics License Applications (BLAs).
Team Leadership and Mentorship
Recruit, build, and lead a high-performing clinical development organization, including clinical science, clinical operations, and medical affairs. Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and urgency, mentoring team members to achieve their full potential.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Act as a key member of the executive team, working seamlessly with leaders in Research, Preclinical Development, CMC, AI/Data Science, and Commercial functions to ensure strategic alignment and successful program execution.
Data Analysis and Communication
Oversee the analysis and interpretation of clinical trial data. Be responsible for the clear and compelling communication of clinical results to internal stakeholders (Executive Team, Board of Directors) and external audiences (investors, scientific conferences, publications).
KOL and Investigator Engagement
Establish and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs), principal investigators, and patient advocacy groups to ensure clinical programs are scientifically sound and relevant to patient needs.
Innovation in Clinical Science
Champion the evaluation and implementation of innovative clinical development methodologies, such as biomarker strategies, patient selection techniques, and adaptive trial designs, to optimize and accelerate the development process.
Budget and Resource Management
Develop and manage the clinical development budget, ensuring responsible fiscal oversight and the strategic allocation of resources to meet corporate objectives.
Due Diligence and Business Development
Provide expert clinical input for due diligence activities related to potential in-licensing, out-licensing, and strategic partnership opportunities.
Requirements for the VP, Clinical Development with an AI Drug Discovery Firm – San Francisco, CA
Educational Background
An MD, MD/PhD, or PhD is required. Board certification in a relevant specialty (e.g., Oncology, Immunology, Neurology) is highly preferred.
Industry Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in clinical development within the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership capacity overseeing clinical programs and teams.
Proven Track Record
Demonstrable success in leading clinical programs from IND filing through to successful regulatory approval (NDA/BLA) in the US and/or Europe.
Regulatory Expertise
Deep, hands-on knowledge of the global regulatory landscape, with significant experience in direct interactions with the FDA and EMA. Thorough understanding of GCP, ICH guidelines, and other regulatory requirements.
Scientific and Technical Acumen
Strong scientific foundation with the ability to critically evaluate and integrate preclinical and clinical data. A genuine interest in and understanding of the application of AI/ML in drug discovery is a significant advantage.
Leadership and Management Skills
Exceptional leadership qualities with a proven ability to build, inspire, and manage high-performing, cross-functional teams in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Strategic Thinking
Superior strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. The ability to translate complex scientific information into a clear, executable clinical and regulatory strategy is paramount.
Communication Skills
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate a clear vision and effectively present complex data to a wide range of audiences, from scientific experts to investors.
Collaborative Spirit
A highly collaborative and team-oriented mindset, with a low ego and a commitment to the success of the entire organization.
Location
Must be based in or willing to relocate to the San Francisco Bay Area.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package. As a key member of the executive team, you can expect:
Executive Compensation
A competitive base salary, a significant annual performance-based bonus, and a substantial equity stake in the company, providing a meaningful opportunity for wealth creation.
Comprehensive Health and Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents with minimal employee contribution. Access to wellness programs, mental health resources, and a generous wellness stipend.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company matching contribution to help you plan for your future.
Generous Time Off
A flexible and supportive paid time off (PTO) policy, in addition to company-paid holidays, to encourage a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for attending scientific conferences, pursuing continuing education, and other professional growth opportunities.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the ideal candidate.
Inspiring Work Environment
The opportunity to work alongside brilliant, passionate colleagues in a state-of-the-art facility, all driven by a mission to fundamentally change how medicines are created.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is the exclusive recruitment partner for this confidential search. To be considered for this pivotal leadership role, please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and interest. We are committed to a thorough and confidential review process.
Visionary leaders in clinical development are encouraged to learn more about our dedicated recruitment services by visiting the JRG Partners’ Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical practice area. We look forward to connecting with you.
Our client is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity at their company. They do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
