Role Overview for EVP, Head of R&D with a Specialty Pharma Company – Princeton, NJ
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a pioneering specialty pharmaceutical company based in the vibrant life sciences hub of Princeton, NJ. We are seeking a visionary and transformative Executive Vice President (EVP), Head of Research & Development to join their executive leadership team. This is a career-defining opportunity for a strategic leader to shape the future of a dynamic organization dedicated to developing and commercializing innovative therapies for patients with unmet medical needs.
The EVP, Head of R&D will be the chief architect of the company’s scientific and clinical strategy. This individual will provide executive oversight for all R&D functions, including discovery, preclinical development, clinical operations, medical affairs, and regulatory affairs. Reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer, you will be instrumental in driving the entire drug development lifecycle, from initial concept to market approval and beyond. You will be responsible for building and nurturing a world-class R&D organization, fostering a culture of scientific excellence, urgency, and collaboration. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of the scientific landscape, a proven track record of advancing drug candidates through the development pipeline, and the executive presence to champion the R&D vision both internally and externally. Your leadership will directly impact the company’s growth trajectory, its ability to attract top talent and strategic partnerships, and ultimately, its mission to deliver life-changing medicines to patients worldwide.
Key Responsibilities of EVP, Head of R&D with a Specialty Pharma Company – Princeton, NJ
The EVP, Head of R&D will have a broad and impactful remit, overseeing the entire research and development engine of the organization. Key responsibilities include:
Strategic Leadership & Vision
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive R&D strategy that is fully aligned with the company’s corporate goals and commercial objectives. Identify and evaluate new scientific and technological opportunities to enhance the product pipeline and maintain a competitive edge.
Pipeline Management & Advancement
Provide rigorous oversight of the entire R&D portfolio, from early-stage discovery through late-stage clinical trials and post-marketing studies. Make critical go/no-go decisions based on robust data, scientific merit, and commercial potential. Ensure projects are managed effectively, meeting key milestones on time and within budget.
Clinical Development Excellence
Lead the design and execution of innovative and efficient clinical development plans. Oversee all phases of clinical trials, ensuring they are conducted with the highest standards of quality, patient safety, and regulatory compliance. Champion the integration of novel methodologies and technologies to accelerate clinical timelines.
Regulatory Strategy & Engagement
Direct the company’s global regulatory strategy to achieve successful and timely product approvals. Serve as the primary liaison with regulatory agencies, including the FDA, EMA, and other international health authorities. Ensure all R&D activities adhere to current FDA guidelines and international regulatory standards.
Team Leadership & Organizational Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing, multidisciplinary R&D team. Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, accountability, and scientific rigor. Attract and retain top-tier talent in all R&D functions. Structure the organization for optimal efficiency and scalability.
Budget & Resource Management
Develop and manage the annual R&D budget, ensuring optimal allocation of financial and human resources across the portfolio. Implement robust financial controls and reporting mechanisms to track performance against budget and strategic objectives.
External Innovation & Partnerships
Identify, evaluate, and cultivate strategic alliances, collaborations, and licensing opportunities with academic institutions, biotech companies, and other third parties to augment the internal pipeline and access cutting-edge science.
Executive Collaboration & Communication
Serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, contributing to overall corporate strategy and decision-making. Effectively communicate R&D strategy, progress, and challenges to the CEO, the Board of Directors, investors, and other key stakeholders. Represent the company at scientific conferences and industry events.
Requirements for the EVP, Head of R&D with a Specialty Pharma Company – Princeton, NJ
We are seeking an accomplished and inspiring leader with a deep scientific background and extensive experience in the pharmaceutical industry. The ideal candidate will meet the following qualifications:
Educational Background
An advanced degree (MD, PhD, or PharmD) in a relevant life sciences discipline is required.
Executive Experience
A minimum of 15-20 years of progressive experience in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry, with at least 10 years in senior leadership roles overseeing multiple R&D functions.
Proven Track Record
Demonstrated success in leading the development of drug candidates from discovery through to regulatory approval (NDA/BLA submission and approval). Experience in specialty therapeutic areas such as neurology, oncology, immunology, or rare diseases is highly preferred.
Regulatory Expertise
Deep, hands-on experience interacting with global regulatory agencies, particularly the FDA. A thorough understanding of cGCP, cGLP, and cGMP principles is essential.
Strategic Acumen
Exceptional strategic thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate complex scientific concepts into a clear, actionable R&D strategy. Experience with portfolio management and prioritization is critical.
Leadership & Management Skills
Proven ability to build, lead, and inspire large, high-performing teams. A track record of mentoring and developing talent is essential. Must possess outstanding interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence and align stakeholders at all levels.
Business & Financial Acumen
Strong understanding of the business aspects of drug development, including budgeting, resource allocation, and the financial drivers of a pharmaceutical company. Experience in due diligence for M&A or licensing deals is a plus.
Personal Attributes
A high degree of integrity, a strong sense of urgency, and a passion for science and patient outcomes. Must be adaptable, resilient, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining the best talent in the industry and offers a highly competitive executive compensation and benefits package, including:
- Highly competitive base salary and annual performance-based bonus.
- Significant long-term incentive plan (stock options, RSUs).
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
- Generous 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
- Substantial paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays.
- Relocation assistance for qualified candidates.
- Professional development opportunities, including support for attending key scientific and industry conferences.
- A collaborative and innovative work environment where your contributions will have a direct and meaningful impact.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search being conducted by JRG Partners. To be considered for this pivotal leadership role, please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest. All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. We invite you to learn more about our expertise in this sector by visiting the JRG Partners’ Life Sciences and Healthcare practice page. We look forward to connecting with you to discuss this exceptional opportunity.
