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# Chief Operating Officer with a Biotech R&D Company – Cambridge, MA


Role Overview for Chief Operating Officer with a Biotech R&D Company – Cambridge, MA
JRG Partners is proud to lead the executive search for a transformative Chief Operating Officer (COO) on behalf of our client, a pioneering biotechnology research and development company at the forefront of therapeutic innovation. Located in the vibrant life sciences hub of Cambridge, MA, our client is dedicated to discovering and developing novel treatments for complex diseases. This is a rare opportunity for a seasoned operational leader to join a dynamic executive team and play a pivotal role in shaping the company’s future trajectory, translating cutting-edge science into life-changing medicines.
As the COO, you will be the strategic partner to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), responsible for the entire spectrum of the company’s internal operations. You will provide the leadership, management, and vision necessary to ensure that the company has the proper operational controls, administrative and reporting procedures, and people systems in place to effectively grow the organization and to ensure financial strength and operating efficiency.
The ideal candidate will be a results-driven leader with a proven track record in the biotech or pharmaceutical industry, possessing a deep understanding of the drug development lifecycle, from preclinical research to clinical execution. You will be instrumental in building a world-class operational infrastructure that supports rapid growth, fosters a culture of high performance and innovation, and ultimately accelerates the delivery of novel therapies to patients in need. This role demands a unique blend of scientific acumen, business savvy, and inspirational leadership.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Operating Officer with a Biotech R&D Company – Cambridge, MA
The Chief Operating Officer will assume a broad range of responsibilities, overseeing the core operational functions that drive the company’s scientific and business objectives. Key duties include:
Strategic Leadership & Execution
Collaborate directly with the CEO and the executive leadership team to develop and implement the company’s strategic plan. Translate high-level strategy into tangible operational goals, milestones, and key performance indicators (KPIs). Drive the execution of corporate priorities across all departments.
Operational Excellence
Design, implement, and oversee business operations to ensure efficiency, quality, and cost-effective management of resources. Establish and monitor performance metrics for all operational functions, including R&D operations, project management, clinical operations, and G&A.
R&D and Clinical Operations Oversight
Provide leadership and direction for all non-scientific aspects of R&D and clinical development. Partner with the Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) and Chief Medical Officer (CMO) to ensure seamless integration and execution of research programs, preclinical studies, and clinical trials. Manage timelines, budgets, and resource allocation for the entire R&D portfolio.
Financial Management and Planning
Work closely with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to lead the annual budgeting and planning process. Oversee operational budgets, ensuring fiscal discipline and optimal allocation of capital. Provide input on fundraising activities and investor relations.
Regulatory Compliance and Quality Systems
Ensure all company operations adhere to the highest standards of regulatory compliance and quality. Oversee the implementation and maintenance of robust quality management systems (QMS) and ensure compliance with all applicable GxP standards, including the FDA’s Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) regulations.
Team Leadership and Talent Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of operational leaders. Foster a collaborative, accountable, and mission-driven culture that attracts and retains top talent. Champion professional development and establish clear career paths within the organization.
Infrastructure and Technology Management
Oversee the company’s physical and digital infrastructure, including laboratory facilities, IT systems, and data management platforms. Ensure that the company’s technology stack supports its scientific and business needs effectively and securely.
Alliance and Vendor Management
Manage key relationships with external partners, including contract research organizations (CROs), contract manufacturing organizations (CMOs), academic collaborators, and other strategic vendors. Lead negotiation of major operational contracts and ensure partners meet performance expectations.
Risk Management
Identify, assess, and mitigate operational, financial, and regulatory risks to the organization. Develop and implement comprehensive risk management policies and business continuity plans.
Corporate Governance
As a key member of the executive team, contribute to board-level discussions and reporting. Ensure transparent and timely communication of operational performance to the CEO and Board of Directors.
Requirements for the Chief Operating Officer with a Biotech R&D Company – Cambridge, MA
The successful candidate will be an accomplished executive with extensive operational experience within the life sciences sector. The required qualifications include:
Educational Background
An advanced degree (PhD, MD, or MBA) in a relevant scientific or business discipline is strongly preferred. A Bachelor’s degree in a life science field is required.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry, with at least 5-7 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., VP of Operations, Head of R&D Operations, COO) with broad operational responsibilities.
Drug Development Expertise
Deep, hands-on knowledge of the entire drug development process, from early-stage discovery and preclinical research through IND submission and clinical trial execution (Phase I-III). Experience with small molecules, biologics, or cell/gene therapies is highly relevant.
Strategic and Financial Acumen
Proven ability to think strategically and translate vision into operational reality. Strong financial literacy, including extensive experience with budgeting, forecasting, and P&L management in an R&D-intensive environment. Experience in a venture-backed or publicly traded biotech company is a significant asset.
Leadership and Management Skills
Demonstrated success in building, leading, and mentoring multidisciplinary teams. An empowering leadership style that fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
Regulatory Knowledge
Comprehensive understanding of the global regulatory environment (FDA, EMA, etc.) and direct experience managing operations in a GxP-compliant setting.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. The ability to articulate complex scientific and operational concepts clearly to a wide range of stakeholders, including scientists, investors, and board members.
Problem-Solving Ability
A resourceful and analytical problem-solver who can navigate ambiguity and make sound decisions in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support your professional and personal well-being. This includes:
Executive Compensation
A competitive base salary, a significant annual performance-based bonus, and a substantial long-term equity package (stock options) commensurate with the seniority of the role.
Health & Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents. A robust wellness program, including gym membership reimbursement and mental health resources.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company matching contribution.
Paid Time Off
A generous and flexible paid time off (PTO) policy, in addition to paid company holidays and sick leave. Comprehensive parental leave policies.
Professional Growth
A dedicated budget for professional development, including attendance at major industry conferences, executive coaching, and continuing education courses.
Relocation Support
A comprehensive relocation assistance package is available for the ideal candidate.
Work Environment
A state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Cambridge’s biotech ecosystem, fostering collaboration and innovation. Additional perks include commuter benefits and regular team-building events.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is exclusively managing this confidential search. To be considered for this pivotal Chief Operating Officer position, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and leadership philosophy. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply.
For more information about our expertise in this sector, please visit the JRG Partners Life Sciences & Biotechnology practice area. We look forward to connecting with you to discuss this exceptional opportunity.