Senior Vice President, Preclinical Development

About the Company

We are partnering with an innovative and well-funded oncology biotech that is advancing a novel pipeline of cancer therapeutics. As the company continues to grow, they are seeking an experienced Vice President, Preclinical Development to provide strategic leadership across their preclinical portfolio and play a pivotal role in progressing programmes towards clinical development.

The Role

Reporting to the executive leadership team, the Senior Vice President, Preclinical Development will be responsible for defining and executing the company's preclinical development strategy across multiple oncology programmes. You will provide scientific and operational leadership from target validation through to IND/CTA-enabling studies, ensuring programmes are delivered to the highest scientific and regulatory standards.

Working collaboratively across Research, Translational Sciences, CMC, Regulatory and Clinical Development, you will play a critical role in shaping the future direction of the organisation's pipeline.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and lead the overall preclinical development strategy across the oncology portfolio.
• Provide scientific leadership for pharmacology, toxicology, DMPK and translational research activities.
• Oversee the design, execution and interpretation of in vivo and preclinical studies to support candidate selection and development decisions.
• Drive programmes through IND/CTA-enabling studies and support regulatory submissions.
• Lead, mentor and develop high-performing scientific teams.
• Build and manage relationships with CROs, academic collaborators and external partners.
• Work closely with executive leadership to establish programme priorities, timelines and budgets.
• Ensure projects are delivered efficiently while maintaining scientific excellence and regulatory compliance.
• Represent the company externally with investors, collaborators and at scientific conferences where appropriate.

What are we looking for? 

• PhD (or equivalent) in Oncology, Pharmacology, Biology or a related life science discipline.

• Significant leadership experience within biotech or pharmaceutical drug discovery and development.
• Demonstrated success leading preclinical oncology programmes from discovery through IND/CTA-enabling studies.
• Strong expertise in oncology biology, translational research and preclinical pharmacology.
• Experience overseeing multidisciplinary scientific teams and external research collaborations.
• Excellent understanding of regulatory requirements supporting early drug development.
• Exceptional leadership, communication and stakeholder management skills.
• A strategic mindset combined with the ability to make scientifically driven decisions in a fast-paced environment.

If you are an experienced preclinical leader with a passion for advancing innovative oncology therapies and are looking to play a key role in a growing biotech, we would be delighted to hear from you.