Head of Rare Diseases

Head of Rare Diseases

London Full-Time 54000 - 84000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the strategic direction of rare disease research and manage cross-functional teams.
  • Company: Join a London-based charity innovating in rare diseases for impactful medical breakthroughs.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary and hybrid work flexibility.
  • Why this job: Make a real difference in patients' lives while working in a mission-driven environment.
  • Qualifications: PhD or MD required, with 10+ years in biomedical research and expertise in rare diseases.
  • Other info: Diversity and inclusion are key values; all applicants are welcomed.

The predicted salary is between 54000 - 84000 £ per year.

Our client is a London-based medical research charity at the forefront of innovation in rare diseases, turning cutting-edge life science discoveries into life-changing medical breakthroughs. This is a unique opportunity to join a well-established, mission-driven organisation committed to ensuring that pioneering advancements in medicine reach the patients who need them most.

The Head of Rare Diseases will be responsible for shaping and leading the strategic direction of the Rare and Ultra-Rare Disease portfolio. This individual will oversee the effective operational delivery of this portfolio, managing cross-functional, matrixed teams spanning pre-clinical, clinical, and enabling functions. This individual will ensure that resources are optimally allocated and project plans are delivered efficiently and in alignment with organisational goals.

Must Haves

  • An advanced degree (PhD or MD) in a relevant medical or scientific discipline
  • Over 10 years’ experience in the biomedical sector, with a strong network and demonstrable expertise in rare diseases
  • Deep scientific credibility and a solid technical understanding across biomedical research disciplines
  • Proven track record in building and delivering successful translational research portfolios
  • Experience managing large-scale, multi-million-pound research programmes
  • Exceptional communication, leadership, and strategic planning skills, with a collaborative mindset and ability to engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders

Location: London-based role with hybrid flexibility.

Remuneration/Package

Market competitive package - further information will be shared if your application is successful.

To Apply

In the first instance please send your resume and any relevant supporting details for consideration to: jenny.tomlins@morganprestwich.com

Diversity and Inclusion

Morgan Prestwich Executive Search is committed to providing a diverse range of talent to our clients. We do not discriminate based on race, religion or sex throughout our screening and matching process. If you are successful, you will receive notification within 5 working days of your submission. If you do not hear from us after this time, please assume that your application was unsuccessful on this occasion.

Head of Rare Diseases employer: Morgan Prestwich - Life Science & Healthcare Executive Search

As a leading medical research charity based in London, our client offers an inspiring work environment where innovation meets purpose. Employees benefit from a collaborative culture that prioritises professional growth and development, alongside the opportunity to make a tangible impact in the field of rare diseases. With hybrid working options and a commitment to diversity and inclusion, this organisation stands out as an exceptional employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in biomedical research.
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Contact Detail:

Morgan Prestwich - Life Science & Healthcare Executive Search Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Head of Rare Diseases

✨Tip Number 1

Network actively within the biomedical sector, especially focusing on rare diseases. Attend relevant conferences and seminars to connect with industry leaders and potential colleagues who can provide insights or referrals.

✨Tip Number 2

Showcase your leadership skills by engaging in discussions about strategic planning and operational delivery in rare diseases. This could be through online forums, webinars, or even writing articles that highlight your expertise.

✨Tip Number 3

Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in rare disease research and the specific challenges faced in this field. Being well-informed will help you articulate your vision and strategies during interviews.

✨Tip Number 4

Prepare to discuss your experience managing large-scale research programmes in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully led cross-functional teams and delivered projects on time and within budget.

We think you need these skills to ace Head of Rare Diseases

Advanced Degree (PhD or MD) in a relevant medical or scientific discipline
Over 10 years’ experience in the biomedical sector
Strong network in rare diseases
Deep scientific credibility in biomedical research
Technical understanding across biomedical research disciplines
Proven track record in translational research portfolio management
Experience managing large-scale, multi-million-pound research programmes
Exceptional communication skills
Leadership skills
Strategic planning skills
Collaborative mindset
Ability to engage with a wide range of stakeholders
Operational delivery management
Resource allocation expertise

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your advanced degree and over 10 years of experience in the biomedical sector. Emphasise your expertise in rare diseases and any relevant projects you've managed.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your leadership skills and strategic planning abilities. Discuss your vision for the Rare and Ultra-Rare Disease portfolio and how you can contribute to the organisation's mission.

Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, focus on your proven track record in managing large-scale research programmes. Provide specific examples of successful translational research portfolios you've built and delivered.

Showcase Communication Skills: Demonstrate your exceptional communication skills by ensuring your application is clear and concise. Mention any experiences where you've effectively engaged with diverse stakeholders in your previous roles.

How to prepare for a job interview at Morgan Prestwich - Life Science & Healthcare Executive Search

✨Showcase Your Expertise

Make sure to highlight your advanced degree and extensive experience in the biomedical sector. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of your work in rare diseases and how it aligns with the organisation's mission.

✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills

As the Head of Rare Diseases, you'll need exceptional leadership abilities. Share instances where you've successfully managed cross-functional teams and delivered large-scale research programmes, emphasising your collaborative approach.

✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions

Expect questions about strategic planning and resource allocation. Think about how you would shape the strategic direction of the Rare and Ultra-Rare Disease portfolio and be ready to discuss your vision for its future.

✨Engage with Stakeholders

Communication is key in this role. Prepare to talk about how you've effectively engaged with a variety of stakeholders in the past. Consider discussing your strategies for building relationships and fostering collaboration across different functions.

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