VP of Operations, Early-Stage Biotech
Oversees operational strategy and infrastructure to advance therapeutic candidates through clinical development stages.
Overview
The daily reality of this role is defined by high-pressure decision-making and the management of complex, interlocking timelines. Operations leaders in biotech must balance the urgent needs of laboratory research with the long-term requirements of clinical trials and manufacturing scale-up. The rhythm of the work fluctuates between strategic board-level meetings and the granular oversight of vendor contracts, facility management, and safety protocols.
Success in this career requires a deep understanding of the regulatory landscape and the ability to navigate extreme scientific uncertainty. Professionals who thrive in this environment tend to be highly organized pragmatists who can translate abstract scientific goals into concrete operational plans. The role involves constant problem-solving regarding capital efficiency, personnel management, and the mitigation of risks inherent in drug development.
Responsibilities
- Develop and implement operational strategies to support the delivery of clinical development milestones.
- Oversee the selection and management of Contract Research Organizations and Contract Manufacturing Organizations.
- Manage the organizational budget and ensure efficient allocation of capital across research and corporate functions.
- Lead the design and expansion of laboratory and office facilities to meet evolving headcount and technical needs.