Role Overview for Chief Strategy Officer – Minneapolis, MN
JRG Partners is proud to exclusively represent a pioneering force in the medical device industry in their search for a transformative Chief Strategy Officer (CSO). Based in the vibrant med-tech hub of Minneapolis, MN, our client is a globally recognized leader dedicated to developing life-changing technologies that improve patient outcomes. This is a rare opportunity for a visionary leader to join an established yet agile executive team and fundamentally shape the future trajectory of the organization.
The Chief Strategy Officer will serve as a key member of the C-suite, acting as a trusted advisor to the Chief Executive Officer and the Board of Directors. You will be the principal architect of the company’s long-term corporate strategy, responsible for identifying and capitalizing on emerging market trends, disruptive technologies, and inorganic growth opportunities. In an era of rapid healthcare evolution, from digital health integration to value-based care models, your strategic foresight will be critical in navigating complexities and securing a sustainable competitive advantage.
This role demands a unique blend of analytical rigor, creative thinking, and executive leadership. You will be tasked with not only formulating strategy but also ensuring its successful execution across a complex, global organization. You will lead a dedicated strategy team and collaborate intimately with leaders in R&D, Commercial, Operations, Finance, and Regulatory Affairs to ensure seamless alignment between strategic objectives and operational realities
The ideal candidate is a dynamic, results-oriented executive with a profound understanding of the medical device landscape and a proven history of driving profitable growth through strategic initiatives. You will be instrumental in defining where the company will play and how it will win, ensuring its continued legacy of innovation and market leadership for years to come.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Strategy Officer – Minneapolis, MN
The CSO will have a broad and impactful mandate, overseeing all facets of corporate strategy and business development. Key responsibilities include:
Corporate Strategy Formulation & Execution
Develop, articulate, and champion a comprehensive, multi-year corporate strategy that aligns with the company’s mission and financial goals. Lead the annual strategic planning process, translating high-level objectives into actionable, measurable initiatives.
Market Intelligence & Competitive Analysis
Build and lead a world-class market intelligence function to continuously monitor and analyze the competitive landscape, technology trends, customer needs, and macroeconomic factors. Provide actionable insights to the executive team to inform decision-making.
Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A)
Drive the inorganic growth strategy by identifying, evaluating, and executing potential acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures, and strategic alliances. Oversee the entire M&A lifecycle from target screening and due diligence to negotiation and post-merger integration.
Portfolio & Innovation Strategy
Collaborate with the Chief Technology Officer and R&D leaders to assess the existing product portfolio and guide future innovation. Ensure the R&D pipeline is aligned with long-term market opportunities and strategic priorities.
Business Development & Strategic Partnerships
Cultivate a network of external relationships with industry leaders, startups, academic institutions, and investment banks to source and secure strategic partnerships that accelerate growth and enhance technological capabilities.
Cross-Functional Leadership
Serve as the strategic glue for the organization, fostering collaboration and alignment across all business units and functions. Ensure that departmental plans are synergistic and contribute to the overarching corporate strategy.
Performance Management & Metrics
Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track the progress and success of strategic initiatives. Prepare and deliver compelling presentations on strategy and performance to the executive team and the Board of Directors.
Global Expansion
Analyze and identify opportunities for geographic expansion, developing market entry strategies that consider regulatory, commercial, and operational complexities. This includes navigating the complex FDA regulatory landscape and other international bodies.
Requirements for the Chief Strategy Officer – Minneapolis, MN
We are seeking a seasoned executive with a distinguished track record of strategic leadership and value creation within the medical device or a closely related healthcare sector.
Educational Background
An MBA or other advanced degree (e.g., PhD, MD) from a top-tier institution is strongly preferred. A bachelor’s degree in a technical or scientific field is a plus.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15+ years of progressive professional experience, with at least 7-10 years in senior leadership roles in corporate strategy, corporate development, business development, or management consulting.
Industry Expertise
Deep and extensive knowledge of the global medical device industry is mandatory. Experience in relevant therapeutic areas and familiarity with emerging technologies (e.g., robotics, digital health, AI/ML in diagnostics) is highly desirable.
Proven M&A Track Record
Demonstrable, hands-on experience leading and closing a variety of strategic transactions, including acquisitions, licensing deals, and complex partnerships.
Strategic & Analytical Acumen
Superior strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities. Must possess exceptional quantitative and financial modeling skills, with the ability to distill complex information into clear, concise strategic narratives.
Leadership & Influence
Exceptional executive presence and communication skills. A proven ability to influence and build consensus among diverse stakeholders, from engineers to board members. A history of building and mentoring high-performing teams.
Global Mindset
Experience working in a global organization and managing initiatives across different geographies and cultures.
Location
The candidate must be based in or willing to relocate to the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top-tier executive talent and offers a comprehensive and highly competitive compensation and benefits package, including:
Executive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual performance-based bonus.
Long-Term Incentives
A substantial equity package (e.g., stock options, RSUs) designed to reward long-term value creation.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Premier medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents. Includes robust wellness programs and mental health support.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company matching contribution.
Executive Relocation
A comprehensive, white-glove relocation package is available for the selected candidate and their family.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for executive coaching, industry conferences, and continuing education to support your growth.
Paid Time Off
A generous and flexible paid time off policy, including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays.
How to Apply
This is a retained search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and strategic accomplishments. All inquiries and applications will be held in the strictest confidence.
JRG Partners is a leader in connecting exceptional talent with transformative opportunities in the healthcare and technology sectors. To learn more about our expertise in this space, please visit our JRG Partners’ Life Sciences Executive Search practice page. We look forward to reviewing your application.
