Role Overview for VP Clinical & Medical Affairs, Cardiovascular Devices – Minneapolis, MN
JRG Partners is proud to represent a pioneering medical device company at the forefront of cardiovascular innovation. We are seeking a visionary and strategic executive to assume the critical role of Vice President, Clinical & Medical Affairs. Based in the vibrant med-tech hub of Minneapolis, MN, this individual will serve as the senior-most clinical leader, responsible for shaping and executing the global clinical and medical strategy for a groundbreaking portfolio of cardiovascular devices.
This is a rare opportunity to join a dynamic executive team and make a profound impact on patient care worldwide. The VP will provide the scientific and medical leadership necessary to guide products from concept through to commercialization and beyond. You will be the central pillar of clinical evidence generation, responsible for designing and implementing robust clinical trials that not only meet regulatory requirements but also demonstrate clear clinical and economic value to physicians, hospitals, and payers. Your expertise will directly influence product development, regulatory success, and commercial adoption, positioning the company for long-term growth and market leadership. You will be the primary medical voice of the organization, engaging with key opinion leaders (KOLs), regulatory bodies, and the broader medical community to champion the company’s technology and mission.
The ideal candidate is a seasoned leader with a deep-rooted understanding of the cardiovascular device landscape, a history of successful clinical program execution, and the executive presence to inspire a high-performing team. If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for transforming cardiovascular treatment paradigms, we invite you to explore this career-defining role.
Key Responsibilities of VP Clinical & Medical Affairs, Cardiovascular Devices – Minneapolis, MN
The Vice President of Clinical & Medical Affairs will have a broad and impactful scope of responsibilities, including:
Strategic Clinical Leadership
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive, long-range global clinical development and medical affairs strategy that aligns with the company’s corporate objectives and commercial goals. Provide scientific and clinical input across all stages of the product lifecycle.
Clinical Trial Oversight
Assume ultimate responsibility for the design, execution, analysis, and reporting of all clinical studies, including feasibility, pivotal (IDE), and post-market trials. Ensure trials are conducted on time, within budget, and in full compliance with all applicable regulations.
Regulatory Partnership
Serve as the key clinical partner to the Regulatory Affairs team. Provide strategic clinical input and authorship for regulatory submissions, including Investigational Device Exemptions (IDEs), Premarket Approvals (PMAs), 510(k)s, and CE Mark technical files. Act as a primary clinical representative in interactions with the FDA, Notified Bodies, and other global health authorities.
Medical Affairs & Evidence Dissemination
Establish and lead a world-class medical affairs function. Oversee the development of a strategic publication plan to ensure timely and impactful dissemination of clinical data in peer-reviewed journals and at major medical congresses. Manage medical information services and support the development of medical education programs.
KOL Engagement
Cultivate and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with a global network of Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs), clinical investigators, and professional societies in the cardiovascular field. Leverage these relationships for clinical trial steering committees, advisory boards, and advocacy.
Team Development and Mentorship
Lead, mentor, and grow a high-performing team of professionals across Clinical Operations, Clinical Science, Biostatistics, Data Management, and Medical Affairs. Foster a culture of scientific rigor, accountability, and collaboration.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Act as a key member of the senior leadership team, working closely with R&D, Marketing, Sales, Quality, and Legal departments to ensure seamless integration of clinical strategy with overall business strategy. Provide clinical and scientific expertise to inform product development, marketing claims, and commercial tactics.
Compliance and Quality Assurance
Ensure all clinical and medical activities are conducted with the highest ethical standards and in strict adherence to FDA regulations and Good Clinical Practice (GCP), ISO 14155, and other relevant international standards. Oversee clinical quality management systems and SOPs.
Fiscal Management
Develop and manage the annual budget for the Clinical and Medical Affairs department, ensuring optimal allocation of resources to achieve strategic priorities.
Risk Management
Proactively identify and mitigate clinical and regulatory risks associated with the product portfolio. Oversee clinical safety and pharmacovigilance activities, including the management of Clinical Events Committees (CEC) and Data Safety Monitoring Boards (DSMB).
Requirements for the VP Clinical & Medical Affairs, Cardiovascular Devices – Minneapolis, MN
We are seeking a distinguished professional who meets the following qualifications:
Educational Background
An advanced degree is required. MD, PhD, or PharmD is strongly preferred. A specialization in cardiology or a related field is a significant asset.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in clinical research, clinical development, and medical affairs within the medical device or biopharmaceutical industry. At least 8-10 years of experience in a senior leadership capacity, with a proven track record of managing and developing teams.
Domain Expertise
Deep and demonstrable expertise in the cardiovascular device space is mandatory. Experience with interventional cardiology, structural heart, electrophysiology, or vascular devices is highly desirable.
Regulatory Acumen
Extensive experience interacting with the FDA (CDRH) and other global regulatory agencies. A thorough understanding of the regulatory pathways for high-risk medical devices, including the IDE and PMA process.
Clinical Trial Mastery
Proven success in designing and executing complex, multi-center, global clinical trials that have led to successful regulatory approvals and market adoption.
Strategic Vision
Demonstrated ability to think strategically, translate complex scientific concepts into actionable plans, and align clinical programs with business objectives. Experience in developing and presenting long-range strategic plans to executive leadership and boards of directors.
Leadership and Influence
Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to inspire, motivate, and lead a diverse team. Must possess strong interpersonal skills and the ability to influence and build consensus among stakeholders at all levels, both internally and externally.
Communication Skills
Impeccable written and verbal communication skills. Must be a compelling presenter, capable of effectively communicating complex scientific and clinical data to a variety of audiences, from physicians and regulators to investors and commercial teams.
Location and Travel
The position is based in Minneapolis, MN. The candidate must be willing to relocate or be based in the area. The role requires a willingness to travel domestically and internationally, estimated at up to 30%.
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, including:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus.
Long-Term Incentives
A meaningful equity package (stock options and/or RSUs) to ensure you share in the long-term success of the company.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) plan with a generous company matching contribution.
Work-Life Balance
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and paid company holidays.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive relocation package is available for qualified candidates moving to the Minneapolis area.
Professional Growth
Ample opportunities for professional development, including support for attending key industry conferences and continuing education.
Innovative Culture
The chance to work in a fast-paced, collaborative, and mission-driven environment dedicated to improving patient lives.
How to Apply
This is a retained search conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. If you possess the requisite experience and leadership qualities to drive clinical excellence in the cardiovascular device space, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and interest in the role.
JRG Partners is a leader in executive search for the life sciences industry. To learn more about our expertise and how we connect exceptional talent with innovative companies, we invite you to learn more by exploring our Medical Device Recruitment practice. We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing this exciting opportunity with you.
