Role Overview for Chief Technology Officer with a Global Biopharma Services Firm – Raleigh, NC
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier global biopharmaceutical services organization in their search for a visionary and transformative Chief Technology Officer (CTO). Based in the vibrant life sciences hub of Raleigh, North Carolina, this executive leadership role is a career-defining opportunity to shape the future of drug development and patient care through technological innovation. Our client is a world-renowned leader, providing a comprehensive suite of services that support pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device companies from early-phase development through to commercialization. As the CTO, you will be the driving force behind the company’s entire technology ecosystem, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer and serving as a pivotal member of the executive leadership team.
This is not merely an IT leadership role; it is a strategic business position that sits at the critical intersection of science, data, and technology. You will be responsible for crafting and executing a forward-thinking technology vision that not only supports current operations but also anticipates future industry trends and unlocks new avenues for growth. The ideal candidate will be a dynamic leader with a profound understanding of the biopharma landscape, capable of architecting scalable, secure, and compliant technology platforms that accelerate clinical trials, enhance data integrity, and provide clients with a competitive edge. You will inherit and build upon a talented global technology team, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence. Your leadership will directly impact the speed and efficiency with which life-saving therapies reach patients worldwide, making this a role of immense professional and personal significance. You will be the key architect of the digital transformation journey, leveraging artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing, and advanced analytics to revolutionize how the organization operates and delivers value to its clients.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Technology Officer with a Global Biopharma Services Firm – Raleigh, NC
Technology Vision and Strategic Roadmap
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive, long-term technology strategy that aligns with and drives the company’s overall business objectives. Proactively identify and champion technology-driven opportunities for innovation, efficiency, and market differentiation.
Executive Leadership and Collaboration
Serve as a key advisor to the CEO and the board of directors on all technology-related matters. Collaborate closely with other C-suite executives (CSO, COO, CFO) to ensure technology initiatives support their respective functional goals and the broader corporate strategy.
Digital Transformation and Innovation
Lead the company’s digital transformation efforts, spearheading the adoption of cutting-edge technologies such as AI/ML for predictive analytics, cloud-native platforms for scalability, and automation for operational excellence. Foster a culture of continuous innovation and R&D within the technology organization.
Team Leadership and Talent Development
Lead, mentor, and inspire a global team of technology professionals across infrastructure, software engineering, cybersecurity, data science, and IT support. Attract, develop, and retain top-tier talent, building a world-class organization capable of meeting future challenges.
Data Governance, Security, and Compliance
Establish and enforce a robust data governance framework to ensure the integrity, quality, and security of all corporate and client data. Guarantee that all systems and processes are compliant with stringent industry regulations, including GxP, HIPAA, GDPR, and 21 CFR Part 11. Oversee all aspects of cybersecurity, protecting the company from evolving threats.
Technology Architecture and Infrastructure
Oversee the design, implementation, and management of a scalable, reliable, and secure global IT infrastructure. Make critical decisions regarding cloud strategy (AWS, Azure, GCP), network architecture, and enterprise systems to ensure high performance and availability.
Software and Product Engineering
Direct the entire lifecycle of proprietary software development, from ideation and design to deployment and maintenance. Ensure the delivery of high-quality, client-facing technology platforms and internal applications that enhance service delivery and create value.
Financial Management and Vendor Relations
Develop and manage the annual technology budget, ensuring optimal allocation of resources and a strong return on investment. Lead technology procurement and manage strategic relationships with key vendors, partners, and service providers to maximize value and mitigate risk.
Requirements for the Chief Technology Officer with a Global Biopharma Services Firm – Raleigh, NC
Educational Background
A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree or MBA is highly preferred.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in technology leadership, with at least 7 years in a senior executive capacity (e.g., CTO, CIO, VP of Engineering) overseeing a significant, globally distributed technology function.
Industry Expertise
Deep and demonstrable experience within the biopharmaceutical, clinical research organization (CRO), life sciences, or a closely related healthcare sector is mandatory. A thorough understanding of the drug development lifecycle, clinical trial processes, and the associated regulatory landscape (GxP, FDA regulations) is essential.
Technical Acumen
Broad and deep knowledge of modern technology paradigms, including cloud computing architecture (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS), enterprise data strategy, cybersecurity frameworks, agile software development methodologies (SDLC), and the application of AI/ML in a scientific or clinical context.
Proven Leadership
A demonstrated track record of building, scaling, and leading high-performance technology teams. Must possess exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and inspire at all levels of the organization, from the board room to individual contributors.
Strategic and Business Mindset
The ability to think strategically, connecting technology initiatives directly to business outcomes. Experience in M&A-related technology integration is a significant plus. Strong financial acumen with experience managing multi-million dollar budgets.
Location
The candidate must be willing to be based in the Raleigh, NC area and work in a hybrid model, fostering a strong in-person leadership presence while managing a global team.
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, a significant annual performance-based bonus, and a meaningful long-term incentive plan (e.g., equity, stock options).
Comprehensive Health and Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents, along with robust wellness programs and resources.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company matching contribution to help you plan for your future.
Work-Life Integration
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, paid holidays, and a flexible hybrid work environment that respects your personal and professional life.
Professional Growth
A dedicated budget for executive coaching, professional development, industry conferences, and continuing education to ensure you remain at the forefront of technology and leadership.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the successful candidate and their family.
How to Apply
This is a unique opportunity to steer the technological direction of a market-leading company and make a tangible impact on global health outcomes. If you are a transformative technology leader with the experience and passion to excel in this role, we strongly encourage you to apply.
JRG Partners specializes in placing elite executives in the technology and life sciences sectors. Qualified candidates are invited to submit their resume and a detailed cover letter outlining their suitability for this specific role through our secure application portal.
