Role Overview for SVP, Human Resources with a Biopharma Start-up – Cambridge, MA
JRG Partners is proud to partner exclusively with a pioneering, venture-backed biopharmaceutical start-up on the search for a transformative Senior Vice President (SVP) of Human Resources. Located in the vibrant heart of the Cambridge, MA biotech ecosystem, our client is dedicated to developing groundbreaking therapies for rare and life-threatening diseases. This is a unique opportunity to join an organization at a pivotal stage of growth and to build a world-class HR function from the ground up, directly influencing the company’s trajectory and success.
As the SVP of Human Resources, you will be a key member of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer. You will serve as the strategic architect of the company’s people strategy, culture, and organizational infrastructure. This role requires a leader who is both a strategic visionary and a hands-on operator, capable of navigating the complexities of a rapidly scaling scientific organization.
You will be responsible for creating and implementing scalable HR programs that attract, retain, and develop the industry’s top talent, while fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and scientific excellence. Your leadership will be instrumental as the company transitions from a pre-clinical entity through critical clinical development milestones and toward potential commercialization. This is more than an HR leadership role; it is a chance to be a true business partner and culture-builder in a company poised to make a significant impact on patients’ lives.
Key Responsibilities of SVP, Human Resources with a Biopharma Start-up – Cambridge, MA
The SVP, Human Resources will have a broad and impactful remit, encompassing all facets of the people function. Your core responsibilities will include:
Strategic Leadership & Executive Partnership
Act as a trusted advisor and coach to the CEO and the executive team. Develop and execute a comprehensive, forward-thinking people strategy that aligns with and drives the company’s scientific and business objectives. Translate business needs into actionable HR initiatives.
Talent Acquisition & Management
Design and lead a best-in-class talent acquisition strategy to attract top-tier scientific, clinical, and G&A talent in a highly competitive market. Implement robust systems for performance management, career pathing, and employee development that foster growth and retention.
Culture & Employee Engagement
Serve as the primary champion and architect of the company’s culture. Develop and implement programs that promote a positive, inclusive, and high-performance work environment. Utilize data and employee feedback to measure engagement and drive continuous improvement.
Organizational Design & Development
Partner with leadership to design an organizational structure that supports rapid scaling. Lead efforts in change management, leadership development, and succession planning to build a resilient and adaptable organization.
Total Rewards Strategy
Develop and manage a competitive and equitable total rewards philosophy, including compensation, benefits, and equity programs. Ensure programs are aligned with market trends in the biopharma industry and support the company’s talent objectives.
HR Operations & Compliance
Build a scalable HR operational foundation, including selecting and implementing HRIS, payroll, and other people-related systems. Ensure unwavering compliance with all federal, state, and local employment laws, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of biopharmaceutical industry best practices and regulations.
Employee Relations & Coaching
Provide expert guidance and coaching to managers and employees on all employee relations issues. Foster a safe and respectful workplace by proactively addressing concerns and resolving conflicts effectively and discreetly.
Requirements for the SVP, Human Resources with a Biopharma Start-up – Cambridge, MA
The ideal candidate will be a seasoned and strategic HR leader with a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the life sciences industry. We are seeking an individual with a proven track record of building and scaling the HR function in a high-growth environment.
Required Qualifications:
Education
A Bachelor’s degree is required. A Master’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration (MBA), or a related field is strongly preferred.
Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in Human Resources, with at least 5-7 years in a senior leadership capacity (e.g., Vice President or Senior Vice President) with direct reporting to the CEO.
Industry Expertise
Demonstrable, significant experience within the biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or life sciences sector is essential. Prior experience in a start-up or a pre-commercial/early-commercial stage company is highly desirable.
Functional Breadth
Deep, hands-on expertise across the full spectrum of HR disciplines, including talent acquisition, organizational development, total rewards (including equity compensation), employee relations, and HR systems/compliance.
Leadership Acumen
Proven ability to function as a strategic business partner. Exceptional communication, influencing, and interpersonal skills with the ability to build credibility and strong relationships at all levels of the organization.
Growth Mindset
A hands-on, ‘roll-up-your-sleeves’ mentality combined with the ability to think strategically. Must be comfortable with ambiguity and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic, and resource-constrained environment.
Location
The ability to work on-site at the company’s headquarters in Cambridge, MA is required.
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 health, well-being, and financial future. As a key member of the leadership team, you can expect:
Competitive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary and an attractive annual performance-based bonus.
Meaningful Equity
A significant equity stake (stock options) in the company, providing the opportunity to share directly in the success you help create.
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 to help you save for the future.
Generous Time Off
A flexible and generous paid time off (PTO) policy, in addition to company-paid holidays, to support work-life balance.
Professional Growth
A dedicated budget and encouragement for professional development, including conferences, workshops, and continuing education.
Prime Location
An inspiring work environment located in a state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Cambridge, surrounded by the world’s leading innovators in science and technology.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is the exclusive retained search firm for this critical leadership position. We are seeking passionate and driven individuals who are excited by the prospect of building a company that will change the landscape of medicine. If you are an experienced biopharma HR leader ready to make a lasting impact, we encourage you to apply.
To be considered for this opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the utmost confidentiality. To learn more about our expertise in this area, please visit our Life Sciences practice area page. We look forward to connecting with you and exploring this exciting role further.
