Chief Scientific Officer (DE877546:LI)

Morgan Philips Executive Search

European Union

Description

We are seeking, on behalf of a client, a highly experienced Chief Scientific Officer.

Position Summary

The Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) will lead the end-to-end scientific and development strategy of a fast-growing, international biopharmaceutical organization.

Reporting directly to the executive leadership team, this role is responsible for driving innovation, accelerating development timelines, and delivering a robust global pipeline from early development through commercialization. The CSO will play a critical role in shaping the company’s scientific vision, ensuring regulatory success across major markets, and strengthening its position as a key player in the biologics space.

Key Responsibilities

Global R&D Strategy & Leadership

  • Define and execute the global R&D and innovation strategy
  • Lead and scale a multi-disciplinary global R&D organization (analytical, process development, clinical, regulatory science)
  • Drive pipeline prioritization, portfolio optimization, and lifecycle management

Development Excellence

  • Oversee the end-to-end development (from cell line development to clinical and regulatory approval)
  • Ensure alignment with global regulatory pathways (focus FDA and EMA)
  • Drive comparability, analytical characterization, and clinical strategy to achieve successful approvals

Innovation & Technical Capabilities

  • Strengthen scientific and technological capabilities in biologics and complex molecules
  • Advance platform technologies for efficient development (e.g., expression systems, analytics)
  • Identify and implement emerging technologies to improve speed, cost, and quality

Regulatory & Clinical Strategy

  • Ensure successful global regulatory submissions and approvals
  • Oversee global clinical development strategy
  • Act as key interface with regulatory authorities and external scientific stakeholders

External Collaboration & Partnerships

  • Build and manage strategic partnerships (CDMOs, biotech partners, academic collaborations)
  • Support licensing, in-licensing, and co-development opportunities
  • Represent the company in scientific forums, conferences, and industry networks

Your Profile

Scientific Expertise & Experience

  • Advanced degree (PhD, MD, or equivalent) in Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Pharmacy, or related field
  • Extensive experience in biologics development
  • Proven track record of bringing drugs from development to approval in major markets
  • Deep understanding of global regulatory requirements (FDA, EMA, ICH guidelines)

Leadership Experience

  • Significant experience leading global R&D organizations in a biopharmaceutical setting
  • Demonstrated ability to build, transform, and scale high-performing R&D teams
  • Experience managing complex global development programs and external partnerships