DIRECTOR, ONCOLOGY STRATEGY & OPERATIONS
Oncology Biotech · Confidential Search · Managed by TSE Executive Search
THE COMPANY
This is a high-conviction oncology biotechnology company advancing a differentiated pipeline with the potential to meaningfully change outcomes for cancer patients. The organization operates with the scientific rigor of a world-class research institution and the urgency of a lean startup — where every team member’s contributions directly shape the trajectory of the science and the programs.
This is a confidential search. All inquiries are handled with complete discretion by TSE Executive Search.
THE OPPORTUNITY
The Director, Oncology Strategy & Operations is a critically important leadership role that sits at the intersection of science, strategy, and operational execution. Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, this individual will own and shape the scientific plan, clinical strategy, cross-functional operations, and program execution for key oncology programs.
This is not a traditional program management role. The right person brings exceptional scientific or clinical depth, the ability to synthesize complex data into clear strategic direction, and the organizational horsepower to drive a drug development program forward — often independently and always with exquisite attention to detail.
You will be relied upon to think independently, improvise when needed, and inspire excellence in every team member and stakeholder you work with.
WHAT YOU WILL OWN
Strategy & Program Leadership
- Set, prioritize, and manage strategic objectives across multiple functions — clinical development, clinical operations, CMC, finance, and strategy
- Own the NPV model and execute strategic analyses to inform program direction and investment decisions
- Conduct competitive intelligence initiatives and synthesize competitor data to inform clinical development strategy and market positioning
- Assess evolving treatment paradigms, standard of care shifts, and competitive readouts relevant to the oncology pipeline
- Identify problems proactively, locate the right resources, and drive data-driven solutions without waiting for direction
Operational Execution & Cross-Functional Leadership
- Coordinate team meetings, delegate to technical experts, and ensure optimal cross-functional team function across all program workstreams
- Manage timelines, milestones, and deliverables across clinical development, CMC, regulatory, finance, and commercial functions
- Interpret, collate, and communicate key data findings in a succinct, executive-ready manner to senior management and the COO
- Facilitate the optimal functioning of a high-performing, cross-functional team — removing barriers and keeping the program moving with speed and precision
External Engagement & Business Development
- Engage with external partners on business development initiatives and strategic partnership discussions
- Manage and develop key industry relationships that support program advancement and BD objectives
- Represent the program externally with scientific credibility and strategic clarity
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR
Education
- MD or PhD from a top-tier academic institution required; commensurate industry experience considered
Experience
- Program management and operating experience within a biotech startup or top-tier pharma organization — working closely within a lean, high-performing team
- Management consulting experience from a top-tier firm (McKinsey, Bain, BCG, or equivalent) and/or investment banking experience strongly preferred
- Demonstrated excellence managing diverse, senior stakeholders across scientific, clinical, and commercial functions
- Strong scientific or clinical background — a keen understanding of oncology program underpinnings is essential, not optional
Competencies
- Scientific depth — you can engage credibly on the science, challenge the data, and earn the respect of clinical and research teams
- Strategic & financial acumen — comfortable building and owning NPV models, opportunity assessments, and scenario analyses
- Operational excellence — exquisite attention to detail, strong timeline management, and the ability to drive multiple complex workstreams simultaneously
- Communication excellence — you translate complex scientific and business information into clear, decision-ready narratives for any audience
- Independent judgment — you identify the problem, find the data, and drive the solution without being asked
- Roll-up-your-sleeves mindset — you are willing to do whatever it takes to advance the program, from the strategic to the tactical
THE RIGHT PERSON
Scientist & Strategist — You have the scientific or clinical depth to understand what the data means, and the strategic judgment to know what it implies for the program’s direction.
Operator — You manage timelines, coordinate teams, and drive execution with precision and accountability. Nothing falls through the cracks on your watch.
Communicator — You synthesize complexity into clarity. Whether in front of the COO or a clinical site coordinator, you communicate with confidence and credibility.
Problem Solver — You think independently, improvise when the playbook doesn’t cover it, and find data-driven solutions to problems others haven’t yet identified.
Excellence Inspirer — You hold yourself and those around you to the highest standard — and the team performs better because of your presence in it.
HOW TO APPLY
This search is managed exclusively and confidentially by TSE Executive Search.
Qualified candidates should submit their resume/CV to:
jobs@tseworldwide.com