Executive Director, Clinical Development
Location: London (hybrid)
Employment Type: Permanent, Full-time
Overview
This is a senior leadership opportunity within a well-funded, clinical-stage biotechnology company advancing innovative cell-based therapies. The organisation is developing a differentiated pipeline across areas of high unmet medical need, with a focus on translating cutting-edge science into clinically meaningful outcomes.
You will play a central role in shaping and delivering a key clinical programme, working in a highly collaborative and fast-paced environment at the intersection of research, clinical development, and manufacturing.
The Role
As Executive Director, Clinical Development, you will be responsible for the strategic leadership and execution of a clinical-stage programme, guiding it from early development through to late-stage planning.
This position requires a strong scientific foundation, strategic thinking, and the ability to operate effectively across cross-functional teams. You will contribute to defining the development pathway, ensuring alignment with regulatory expectations and broader business objectives.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the development strategy for a novel cell therapy programme across clinical stages
* Drive programme planning, prioritisation, and execution to optimise development timelines and value
* Design and oversee clinical studies, including protocols, endpoints, and operational delivery
* Provide medical and scientific oversight of clinical data, including safety and efficacy interpretation
* Contribute to longer-term development planning, supporting future regulatory submissions
* Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including research, regulatory, CMC, and commercial functions
* Ensure integration of clinical and translational insights into development strategy
* Maintain awareness of the external scientific and competitive landscape
* Engage with external experts, investigators, and key stakeholders to inform programme development
* Represent the organisation in interactions with regulatory authorities and at scientific forums
* Build and lead a high-performing clinical development team
* Promote a culture of innovation, accountability, and collaboration
Key Requirements
* Medical degree (MD or equivalent)
* Significant experience in drug development within biotech or pharmaceutical settings
* Demonstrated leadership in advancing therapies through clinical development
* Experience in complex disease areas is advantageous but not essential
* Strong understanding of clinical trial design, regulatory considerations, and translational science
* Ability to balance scientific innovation with strategic and commercial considerations
* Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills
If you are interested and would like to find out more details, please submit your application or reach out to hannah.hollamby@biotalent.com