Role Overview for VP, Clinical Research with an Oncology Biotech – San Diego, CA
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a pioneering, clinical-stage biotechnology company at the forefront of oncology innovation. Based in the vibrant life sciences hub of San Diego, CA, our client is dedicated to developing and delivering transformative therapies for patients with cancer. Their robust pipeline, built on a foundation of cutting-edge science, targets novel pathways to address significant unmet medical needs. With a culture of scientific rigor, collaboration, and urgency, they are poised for significant growth and impact. We are seeking a visionary and experienced Vice President of Clinical Research to provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for their entire oncology clinical development portfolio.
This is a career-defining executive leadership opportunity for a seasoned physician-scientist or clinical development expert to shape the future of a dynamic organization. Reporting directly to the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), the VP of Clinical Research will be the primary architect of the company’s clinical strategy. You will be responsible for leading the design, execution, and interpretation of all clinical trials, from first-in-human studies to pivotal registration trials. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of oncology, a proven track record of successful drug development, and the leadership acumen to build and inspire a world-class clinical research team. Your work will be instrumental in advancing novel cancer therapeutics from the laboratory to patients in need, directly influencing the company’s trajectory and making a tangible difference in the fight against cancer.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Clinical Research with an Oncology Biotech – San Diego, CA
The Vice President of Clinical Research will assume a broad range of responsibilities, encompassing strategic direction, operational execution, and team leadership. Your duties will include, but are not limited to:
Clinical Development Strategy
Develop, articulate, and execute comprehensive clinical development plans for all assets in the oncology pipeline. This includes defining target product profiles, outlining phase-appropriate trial designs, establishing key endpoints, and identifying potential risks and mitigation strategies.
Trial Design and Execution
Provide expert oversight for the design and conduct of all clinical trials (Phase I-IV). Ensure that protocols are scientifically sound, operationally feasible, and aligned with regulatory expectations. You will be accountable for trial execution, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and the highest quality standards.
Regulatory Leadership
Act as a key clinical representative in interactions with global regulatory authorities, including the FDA, EMA, and others. Lead the clinical contribution to regulatory submissions, such as Investigational New Drug (IND) applications, New Drug Applications (NDAs), and Biologics License Applications (BLAs), as well as briefing documents and responses to agency queries.
Team Leadership and Mentorship
Build, manage, and mentor a high-performing clinical research team, including Clinical Scientists, Medical Directors, and Clinical Operations personnel. Foster a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement. Provide guidance and professional development to team members to ensure their growth and success.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Serve as a key member of the R&D leadership team, working seamlessly with colleagues in Discovery Research, Translational Medicine, Biostatistics, Data Management, Regulatory Affairs, and Medical Affairs. Ensure strategic alignment and effective communication across all functions to achieve corporate goals.
Data Analysis and Communication
Oversee the ongoing review, analysis, and interpretation of clinical trial data. Drive the development of a robust publication and presentation strategy to disseminate key findings to the scientific and medical communities through peer-reviewed journals and major international conferences.
KOL and Investigator Engagement
Cultivate and maintain strong, collaborative relationships with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs), principal investigators, and advisory boards. Leverage their expertise to inform clinical strategy, optimize trial design, and ensure successful trial execution.
Patient Safety and Pharmacovigilance
Uphold the highest standards of patient safety across all clinical programs. Provide senior oversight of the pharmacovigilance and drug safety functions, ensuring timely and accurate safety reporting and signal detection.
Budget and Resource Management
Develop and manage the annual budget for the Clinical Research department. Ensure prudent allocation of resources, accurate forecasting, and fiscal responsibility in all clinical development activities, including the management of CROs and other external vendors.
Requirements for the VP, Clinical Research with an Oncology Biotech – San Diego, CA
We are seeking an exceptional leader with a deep passion for science and a commitment to improving patient outcomes. The successful candidate will meet the following qualifications:
Educational Background
An advanced degree (MD, PhD, or PharmD) is required. For MD candidates, board certification in Oncology or Hematology is strongly preferred.
Industry Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience within the biopharmaceutical industry, with at least 10 years dedicated to hands-on clinical development in an oncology setting.
Drug Development Expertise
A proven track record of successfully leading oncology programs through all phases of clinical development, from IND to NDA/BLA submission and approval. Experience with both solid tumors and hematologic malignancies is highly desirable.
Regulatory Acumen
Extensive, first-hand experience in preparing for and leading significant interactions with the FDA and other major regulatory bodies. A thorough understanding of the global regulatory landscape for oncology drug development is essential.
Leadership Experience
Demonstrated success in a significant leadership role, with experience building, managing, and developing high-performing, multi-disciplinary teams. Must possess the ability to lead by influence and foster a collaborative environment.
Scientific and Clinical Rigor
Deep scientific knowledge in oncology and a sophisticated understanding of modern clinical trial design, including adaptive designs and the use of biomarkers. Must be able to critically evaluate scientific data and make data-driven decisions.
Operational Excellence
Strong understanding of the operational aspects of clinical trials, ensuring all activities are conducted in strict adherence to Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines and other regulatory standards.
Communication Skills
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills. The ability to clearly articulate complex scientific and clinical concepts to a wide range of audiences, from internal teams and executive leadership to external investigators and regulatory authorities.
Personal Attributes
A strategic thinker with a results-oriented mindset. Must be adaptable, resilient, and able to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic biotech environment. High ethical standards and a strong sense of personal accountability are paramount.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to attracting and retaining top talent by offering a highly competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package. This includes:
- A competitive base salary commensurate with experience.
- An aggressive annual performance-based bonus structure.
- A significant equity stake in the company through stock options, providing a meaningful opportunity for wealth creation.
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
- A robust 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous company match.
- Generous paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays.
- A comprehensive relocation assistance package for qualified candidates moving to the San Diego area.
- Support for continuous learning and professional development, including attendance at major scientific conferences.
- The opportunity to work in a collaborative, mission-driven culture with a team of passionate and dedicated professionals.
How to Apply
This is a retained search managed exclusively by JRG Partners. If you are a visionary clinical development leader with the experience and passion to drive the next generation of oncology therapies, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this executive opportunity, please submit your curriculum vitae and a detailed cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the role. For more executive opportunities in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors, we invite you to explore JRG Partners’ Life Sciences practice area. We look forward to reviewing your application.
