Head of Safety Pharmacology

Our client, a global biopharmaceutical company, is looking for a senior Safety Pharmacology leader to take ownership of the function across a broad and innovative pipeline.

This is a critical function across the interface of discovery, non-clinical development, regulatory strategy, and patient safety. The successful candidate will shape safety pharmacology strategy from early discovery through to regulatory submission, while leading a global team and influencing key development decisions.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the global Safety Pharmacology function, providing scientific, strategic, and operational direction.
• Develop safety pharmacology strategies to support discovery and development programmes across multiple therapeutic areas.
• Act as a senior scientific advisor to project teams, leadership, and governance committees.
• Oversee the design, interpretation, and regulatory reporting of non-clinical safety pharmacology studies.
• Drive the use of translational safety science, predictive toxicology, and emerging technologies to improve decision-making and reduce development risk.
• Work closely with Toxicology, DMPK, Clinical Pharmacology, Regulatory Affairs, Research, and Development teams.
• Represent the company externally with regulators, at scientific meetings, and through industry or academic collaborations.
• Build, mentor, and develop talent across the Safety Pharmacology team.

Experience required

• Significant industry experience in non-clinical drug development, with strong leadership experience in Safety Pharmacology.
• Deep understanding of cardiovascular, respiratory, and CNS safety assessment.
• Strong knowledge of ICH S7A/S7B guidance and global regulatory expectations.
• Track record of supporting regulatory submissions and helping progress candidates from discovery into clinical development.
• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams in a global, matrixed environment.