Role Overview for VP, Clinical Affairs with a Vaccine Manufacturer – Philadelphia, PA
JRG Partners is proud to represent a pioneering vaccine manufacturer at the forefront of immunological innovation. Based in the vibrant life sciences hub of Philadelphia, PA, our client is dedicated to developing next-generation vaccines to combat some of the world’s most pressing infectious diseases. We are seeking a visionary and highly experienced leader to join their executive team as the Vice President of Clinical Affairs. This is a pivotal role responsible for providing strategic direction and operational oversight for the entire clinical development pipeline. The successful candidate will be a key architect of the company’s clinical strategy, ensuring the successful execution of clinical trials from early-stage development through to global regulatory approval and post-market activities. As the VP of Clinical Affairs, you will be instrumental in shaping the future of public health by leading the efforts to bring safe and effective vaccines to populations in need. You will lead a dedicated team of clinical scientists, operations professionals, and data managers, fostering a culture of scientific rigor, innovation, and unwavering commitment to patient safety. This position demands a unique blend of scientific expertise in vaccinology, deep regulatory knowledge, and exceptional leadership capabilities. You will serve as the primary clinical spokesperson for the company, interacting with regulatory bodies, key opinion leaders (KOLs), and investment partners. If you are a strategic leader with a proven track record of bringing vaccines through the clinical development lifecycle, this is an unparalleled opportunity to make a lasting impact on a global scale.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Clinical Affairs with a Vaccine Manufacturer – Philadelphia, PA
The Vice President of Clinical Affairs will assume comprehensive responsibility for the company’s clinical development programs. This includes strategic planning, execution, and reporting, ensuring all activities align with corporate objectives and meet the highest regulatory and ethical standards.
Clinical Development Strategy & Leadership
Develop and implement comprehensive, long-range clinical development plans for all vaccine candidates in the pipeline. Provide executive leadership and scientific direction for all clinical trial phases (Phase I-IV), ensuring robust trial design, statistical validity, and alignment with target product profiles. Champion a culture of scientific excellence and urgency within the clinical affairs department.
Operational Oversight & Execution
Direct and oversee all aspects of clinical operations to ensure the timely and high-quality execution of clinical trials. This includes protocol development, site selection and activation, patient recruitment, data collection, and clinical study report generation. Proactively identify and mitigate risks to clinical trial timelines, budgets, and objectives.
Team Management & Development
Build, lead, and mentor a high-performing clinical affairs team, including clinical operations, clinical science, biostatistics, and data management functions. Foster a collaborative and inclusive environment that encourages professional growth, innovation, and accountability. Set clear goals and provide regular feedback to ensure team success.
Regulatory Strategy & Compliance
Serve as the primary clinical representative in interactions with global regulatory agencies, including the FDA, EMA, and others. Lead the preparation and review of clinical sections for regulatory submissions such as Investigational New Drug (IND) applications, Biologics License Applications (BLA), and Marketing Authorization Applications (MAA). Ensure all clinical activities are conducted in strict compliance with Good Clinical Practice (GCP), ICH guidelines, and other applicable regulations.
Data Integrity & Analysis
Oversee the collection, analysis, interpretation, and presentation of clinical trial data. Collaborate closely with biostatistics and data management teams to ensure the highest standards of data quality and integrity. Guide the clinical team in making data-driven decisions to advance development programs.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Act as a key member of the executive leadership team, working collaboratively with heads of Research & Development, Regulatory Affairs, Medical Affairs, and Commercial teams. Ensure seamless integration of clinical development strategy with overall corporate strategy, providing clinical insights to inform business development and portfolio management decisions.
Stakeholder & KOL Engagement
Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key opinion leaders, principal investigators, clinical research organizations (CROs), and academic partners. Represent the company at scientific conferences, advisory board meetings, and investor presentations, effectively communicating clinical data and program progress.
Fiscal & Resource Management
Develop and manage the annual budget for the clinical affairs department. Ensure optimal allocation and utilization of resources, including personnel, financial capital, and external vendors, to achieve departmental and corporate goals efficiently.
Requirements for the VP, Clinical Affairs with a Vaccine Manufacturer – Philadelphia, PA
We are seeking a seasoned professional with a deep understanding of vaccine development and a demonstrated history of successful clinical leadership. The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications:
Educational Background
An advanced degree in a relevant scientific field is required. An M.D., Ph.D., or Pharm.D. is strongly preferred.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in clinical development within the biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry. A significant portion of this experience must be in vaccine development. At least 8-10 years of experience in a leadership role, managing clinical development teams and strategy.
Regulatory Expertise
Extensive, hands-on experience with global regulatory submissions (IND, BLA, MAA) and a proven track record of successful interactions with health authorities such as the FDA and EMA. Deep and current knowledge of GCP, ICH guidelines, and other global clinical trial regulations.
Leadership Skills
Demonstrated ability to lead, influence, and motivate cross-functional teams. Proven experience in building and scaling a clinical affairs department. Exceptional strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
Scientific Acumen
Strong scientific background with expertise in immunology, virology, or infectious diseases. The ability to critically evaluate scientific data, design robust clinical trials, and effectively communicate complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Outstanding written and verbal communication skills. The ability to present clearly and persuasively to internal and external stakeholders, including executive leadership, board members, investors, and regulatory agencies.
Operational Excellence
A strong track record of managing complex clinical programs on time and within budget. Experience in selecting and managing CROs and other external vendors.
Location
Ability to work on-site at the company’s headquarters in Philadelphia, PA. Relocation assistance is available for the right candidate.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top talent by offering a highly competitive compensation and benefits package. As a key member of the executive team, you can expect:
Competitive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary, annual performance-based bonus, and long-term equity incentives (stock options).
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
A full suite of benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents, with significant employer contributions. Includes access to wellness programs and mental health support.
Retirement Planning
A 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Generous Paid Time Off
A flexible and generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays, to support a healthy work-life balance.
Professional Development
A strong commitment to your professional growth with support for attending scientific conferences, continuing education, and leadership development programs.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for candidates moving to the Philadelphia area.
Inspiring Work Environment
The opportunity to work alongside a passionate and brilliant team dedicated to a mission of global health impact.
How to Apply
This is an exclusive search being conducted by JRG Partners. To be considered for this career-defining opportunity, please submit your curriculum vitae and a cover letter detailing your experience in vaccine development and clinical leadership. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply.
JRG Partners is a leader in executive recruitment for the life sciences sector. We connect innovative companies with the visionary leaders who can drive their success. To learn more about our expertise and explore other opportunities, please visit our Life Sciences & Pharmaceutical Practice Area page.
Our client is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity at their company. They do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the strictest confidence.
