Job Title: Project/Program Team Leader – Drug Development
Location: Bay Area, CA (Hybrid)

A pioneering biotechnology company is seeking a Project Team Leader (PTL) to lead cross-functional project teams and guide therapeutic programs from candidate nomination through clinical development. This critical role will shape and execute the integrated development strategy for innovative molecules, working in collaboration with internal teams and external partners.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic and scientific leadership to cross-functional teams advancing drug candidates through early and mid-stage clinical development.

• Define and refine the development vision and strategy, integrating emerging scientific data and competitive insights.

• Present strategic recommendations to internal governance for endorsement and funding; ensure alignment with endorsed plans.

• Drive timely cross-functional decision-making within a matrixed team structure.

• Serve as the primary spokesperson for the program, keeping senior leadership and stakeholders informed.

• Identify risks and develop mitigation strategies; ensure robust scenario planning across cost, speed, and regulatory success.

• Ensure resource stewardship and on-time, on-budget program delivery aligned with corporate goals.

• Cultivate a high-performance team culture of ownership, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

• Partner effectively with sub-teams and external collaborators to ensure cross-functional integration and alignment.

• Contribute to organizational process improvements that support portfolio advancement.

• Collaborate with alliance stakeholders to ensure smooth transitions across development stages and partnerships.

Qualifications:

• PhD, MD, or PharmD in life sciences or a drug development-related scientific discipline.

• Minimum of 10-12 years of biotech/pharma industry experience in drug development, ideally progressing candidates from pre-IND through early to mid-stage clinical trials.

• Proven leadership of cross-functional program teams with successful milestone achievements.

• Deep understanding of drug development processes and regulatory requirements.

• Experience in oncology, neuroscience and/or rare diseases strongly preferred.

• Track record of working with external collaborators and alliance partners.

• Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills.

• Comfortable navigating ambiguity and complexity in novel therapeutic areas.

• Must be able to work on-site a minimum of 3 days per week.
  
   

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