Vice President, Global Head of Neuroscience

Overview

• To provide strategic leadership and oversight of neuroscience research programs, focusing on neurological disorders such as epilepsy and Parkinson’s disease.
• Drive innovative drug discovery efforts from early research through IND applications, ensuring alignment with global regulatory requirements and market trends.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and coordination across a matrixed, multi-disciplinary team (Strategy & AI/DT Center, Preclinical Research, Regulatory, Clinical, Medical, and external collaborators) in the design, execution, and advancement of neurology-focused drug discovery programs, aligning objectives and operational activities without directly managing each functional team.
• Collaborate with project management and relevant stakeholders to ensure alignment of research priorities, timelines, and resource allocation across programs.
• Drive efficient execution of IND-enabling studies, leveraging prior experience and organizational capabilities to support successful regulatory submissions.
• Accountable for identifying and implementing innovative technologies and methodologies, including AI/DT, to accelerate drug discovery and improve R&D efficiency.
• Provide leadership in translating preclinical and clinical data into actionable insights to advance development programs.
•  Oversee external collaborations and partnerships to integrate cutting-edge scientific approaches and expand research capabilities.
• May lead internal and external research team meetings, manage collaborations, and evaluate new opportunities for partnerships and innovation.
• Provide oversight with SMEs for the design and progression of research programs, ensuring scientific rigor and alignment with development goals.
• Contribute to the development and review of regulatory documents related to IND filings and ensure alignment with FDA and global regulatory requirements.
• Participate in due diligence activities, evaluating early-stage assets and research opportunities within the neuroscience space.
• Ensure all research activities are conducted in compliance with applicable regulatory guidelines, including FDA requirements and global standards.
• Develop and implement best practices and continuous improvement processes within research and development functions.
• Work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to ensure quality, compliance, and efficiency across all research activities.
• Provide leadership and mentorship to research teams, fostering a culture of scientific excellence, innovation, and collaboration.
• Supervision Exercised: Supervisory responsibility for neuroscience research teams and cross-functional collaboration groups, including approximately 1–4 direct reports:
• Associate Director / Senior Scientists
• Research Scientists
• Project Leads
• Cross-functional team members

 

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Neurology or a related field (MBA or equivalent business experience preferred)
• 15+ years of experience in drug discovery and development, with strong expertise in CNS therapeutics and IND filings
• Ability to multitask
• Adaptability to changing priorities
• Maintain composure under pressure
• Strong leadership and team motivation skills
• Effective verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to quickly grasp complex scientific information
• Strong attention to detail
• Requires international travel