Head of Therapeutic Alliances

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is a leading healthcare nonprofit organization like no other. For decades, we have been taking major steps and pioneering new ways to advance the mission to find a cure for cystic fibrosis and to provide all people with CF the opportunity to lead long, fulfilling lives by funding research and drug development, partnering with the CF community, and advancing high-quality, specialized care.

By joining the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, you will be part of a dedicated team committed to our core values and working towards a cure for cystic fibrosis. We offer a collaborative and supportive work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by CF. Learn more about why work at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Position Summary:

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Head of Therapeutic Alliances (TA) will manage a diverse team of Alliance Managers focused on enabling collaboration, guidance, and support of portfolio companies. The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation invests in early-stage life science companies and has a portfolio of investments spanning ~40 companies developing technologies to treat and, one day, cure cystic fibrosis. The Head of TA will have an exceptional opportunity to interface with some of the world’s most eminent scientists, entrepreneurs, and biotech companies developing genetic medicines, antibiotics, and treatments for the manifestations of cystic fibrosis. The Head of TA role will be a high visibility, leadership position with routine collaboration with the CFF C-suite.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead and advise Alliance Managers as they manage contractual obligations and provide clinical development guidance for portfolio companies.

• Work across multiple units/functions such as CFF funded academic program, the CFF Laboratory, CFF-aligned CROs, and the CFF-funded Therapeutics Development Network clinical trial units to conceive, direct research, and build alliances to address development requirements of CF portfolio companies.

• Support scientific program leaders in analyzing results in a situationally relevant fashion and with the help of internal and external experts, provide subject matter expertise to portfolio companies on experimental plans and drug development activities.

• Assist senior leadership in devising drug development strategy required to meet scientific and drug development objectives.

• Coach and guide internal cross-functional alliance team members in effective collaboration best practices.

• Support and oversee external facing project teams to execute on the obligations of strategic alliance agreements and foster a commitment to proactive decision-making.

• Develop scalable processes with cross-functional working team to effectively manage the tracking of contractual obligations.

• Create additional value within alliances, facilitate the creation of mutual trust with partners, and proactively manage collaboration risks.

• Communicate partner updates and proactively identify potential risks to senior leadership in an effective way.

• Understand partner interests and work to align incentives between organizations.

• Ensure that the Foundation is perceived as a partner of choice in the biotech innovation ecosystem.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

• Ph.D., M.D., MS/MBA or equivalent in the biological sciences, working knowledge of high-level concepts in gene therapy such as gene insertion, gene editing, and/or gene delivery is a plus.

• 10+ years of experience in alliance management roles (or a combination of research & development and alliance management experience) at a biopharma firm with a clear track record of driving successful collaborations.

• Extensive experience managing and motivating diverse teams by setting clear action items, deadlines, and expectations for high performance.

• Exceptional capability to lead cross-functional and diverse teams on a wide-range of complex projects.

• Expertise in late pre-clinical and early clinical development to interpret findings and make recommendations to portfolio companies and associated partners across the CF ecosystem.

• Exceptional work ethic with a commitment to developing a wide range of skills and responsibilities.

• High emotional intelligence with a strong ability to interface with a variety of internal and external stakeholders.

• Ability to collaborate and be creative with a professional and positive approach.

• Ability to take courageous, decisive action and make timely and independent decisions that are in the best interests of the Foundation.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS:

• Reports to the Executive Vice President, Chief Scientific Officer.

• Manages a team of Alliance Managers.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Normal office environment (remote) with little exposure to excessive noise, dust, and temperature.

• Ability to travel to meetings or events.

• No heavy lifting required.

The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of essential functions, responsibilities or requirements.

This position will be posted for a minimum of 5 days or until the position is filled. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis, so candidates are encouraged to apply promptly if interested.

Total Rewards: The CF Foundation is committed to offering competitive compensation (base pay and incentive), benefits, time off and professional development opportunities that maximize our ability to recruit, retain, reward, and motivate a highly qualified and diverse workforce. Visit our Why Work at the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation for detailed total rewards information.

The CF Foundation is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to being an employer of choice, not just a good place to work, but a great and inclusive place to work. We strive to recruit and maintain a diverse workforce. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, physical or mental disability, color, religious creed, ancestry, national origin, religion, age, sex, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or testing, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation or status as a Vietnam-era or special disabled veteran or any characteristic protected by law.

Reasonable Accommodations: The CF Foundation is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or would like to request an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at [email protected].