Role Overview for VP, Medical Affairs with an Ophthalmology Biotech – Raleigh, NC
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a pioneering, clinical-stage biotechnology company at the forefront of ophthalmic innovation. Located in the vibrant Research Triangle Park area of Raleigh, NC, our client is dedicated to developing and commercializing transformative therapies for sight-threatening diseases. With a robust pipeline and a patient-centric culture, they are poised for significant growth and impact. We are seeking a visionary and strategic leader to join their executive team as the Vice President of Medical Affairs.
This is a cornerstone leadership position reporting directly to the Chief Medical Officer. The VP, Medical Affairs will be the primary architect and driver of the company’s global medical strategy, providing essential medical leadership across the organization. You will be responsible for building and leading a world-class Medical Affairs team, ensuring that all activities are executed with scientific rigor, ethical integrity, and a clear focus on patient needs.
This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the scientific narrative, guide late-stage clinical development, and prepare for the successful launch of groundbreaking ophthalmology products. The ideal candidate will be a dynamic leader with deep expertise in ophthalmology, a proven track record of success in Medical Affairs, and a passion for bringing sight-saving treatments to patients worldwide. You will serve as the company’s leading medical voice to the external community, including key opinion leaders (KOLs), medical societies, and patient advocacy groups.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Medical Affairs with an Ophthalmology Biotech – Raleigh, NC
Strategic Leadership and Vision
Develop, articulate, and execute a comprehensive, long-range Medical Affairs strategy that aligns with corporate objectives and supports the full lifecycle of the company’s product portfolio. Provide medical and scientific leadership across the entire organization.
Team Building and Management
Recruit, train, mentor, and lead a high-performing Medical Affairs organization. This includes building out functions such as Medical Science Liaisons (MSLs), Medical Information, Medical Education, and Health Economics and Outcomes Research (HEOR). Foster a collaborative, results-oriented, and scientifically-driven culture.
KOL Engagement and External Relations
Cultivate and maintain robust, collaborative relationships with a global network of key opinion leaders, clinical investigators, and academic institutions in the ophthalmology community. Establish and manage scientific advisory boards to gather critical insights that inform clinical and medical strategy.
Data Generation and Dissemination
Lead the strategy for post-approval data generation, including Phase IV studies, investigator-initiated trials (IITs), real-world evidence (RWE) studies, and patient registries. Oversee the development and execution of a strategic publication plan to ensure timely and impactful dissemination of clinical data in peer-reviewed journals and at major scientific congresses.
Launch Preparedness and Execution
Serve as the medical lead on the cross-functional launch team. Develop and implement a comprehensive medical launch plan, including KOL mapping, scientific communications platforms, and educational initiatives to ensure a successful product introduction.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Act as a key strategic partner to Commercial, Clinical Development, Regulatory Affairs, and Market Access teams. Provide critical medical input for commercial strategies, promotional materials, clinical trial designs, regulatory submissions, and value propositions.
Scientific Communication and Education
Oversee the creation and dissemination of accurate, balanced, and scientifically rigorous medical information and educational materials for both internal and external stakeholders. Ensure the scientific integrity of all company communications.
Compliance and Governance
Uphold the highest standards of medical and ethical conduct. Ensure all Medical Affairs activities are fully compliant with all applicable laws, regulations, and industry codes (e.g., FDA, PhRMA, OIG). Oversee the medical review and approval of promotional materials (MRC/PRC).
Budget and Resource Management
Develop and manage the annual budget for the Medical Affairs department, ensuring optimal allocation of resources to achieve strategic goals and operational excellence.
Requirements for the VP, Medical Affairs with an Ophthalmology Biotech – Raleigh, NC
Educational Background
An advanced terminal degree (MD, PhD, or PharmD) is required. An MD with a specialization in Ophthalmology is strongly preferred.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience within the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry, with at least 10 years dedicated to Medical Affairs leadership roles.
Therapeutic Area Expertise
Deep and extensive experience in the therapeutic area of ophthalmology is mandatory. A comprehensive understanding of retinal diseases, glaucoma, or other key areas of ophthalmic research is essential.
Launch Experience
A proven track record of successfully leading the Medical Affairs function through at least one major product launch, preferably within the ophthalmology space.
Leadership Acumen
Demonstrated ability to build, lead, and inspire high-performing teams in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Experience managing both internal teams and external vendors/consultants.
Strategic Thinking
The ability to think strategically and translate broad corporate goals into actionable Medical Affairs plans. A history of anticipating future trends and challenges in the medical landscape.
Scientific and Clinical Acumen
A strong understanding of the entire drug development process, from preclinical research to post-marketing surveillance. Expertise in clinical trial design, data analysis, and interpretation is critical. A deep familiarity with the landscape of current and emerging ophthalmic treatments and therapies is required.
Communication and Influence
Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. The ability to effectively convey complex scientific concepts to a wide range of audiences and to influence decision-making at all levels of the organization, including the C-suite and Board of Directors.
KOL Network
An established and credible network of relationships with key opinion leaders and medical professionals in the ophthalmology field is highly desirable.
Location
Ability to work on-site at the company’s headquarters in Raleigh, NC.
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:
Competitive Compensation
A highly attractive base salary, a significant annual performance-based bonus, and a substantial long-term equity package (stock options/RSUs).
Comprehensive Health and Wellness
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your dependents. A robust employee wellness program, health savings account (HSA), and flexible spending accounts (FSA).
Financial Security
A 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous company match. Company-paid life insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage.
Work-Life Balance
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and paid company holidays. Paid parental leave to support growing families.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for professional development, including attendance at scientific conferences, continuing education courses, and leadership training.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for qualified candidates moving to the Raleigh, NC area.
How to Apply
This is a retained, exclusive search conducted by JRG Partners. If you are a transformative Medical Affairs leader with a passion for ophthalmology and a desire to make a significant impact on patients’ lives, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this pivotal leadership role, please submit your resume and a detailed cover letter outlining your relevant experience and qualifications.
JRG Partners is a leader in executive search for the life sciences industry. We connect innovative companies with the exceptional talent needed to drive progress and change lives. You can learn more about our expertise by visiting our dedicated Life Sciences practice area page. We look forward to reviewing your application.
