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- Tasks: Lead Medical & Scientific Affairs for a groundbreaking rare disease therapy launch.
- Company: Join a dynamic startup focused on innovative treatments in ophthalmology.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible remote work and the chance to shape medical governance.
- Why this job: Be part of a pioneering team making a real impact in healthcare.
- Qualifications: ABPI Final Signatory certification and strong Medical Affairs leadership experience required.
- Other info: This is a unique opportunity to influence a pre-launch phase in a lean setup.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity for an experienced ABPI Final Signatory to lead the Medical & Scientific Affairs function for the UK launch of a first-in-class orphan-designated therapy in ophthalmology.
This is a strategic interim role supporting early access, governance, and scientific engagement ahead of a landmark UK launch in 2026.
- Interim contract — 2–3 days per week (flexible)
- ABPI Final Signatory certification (essential)
- Strong Medical Affairs leadership experience
- Rare disease or orphan drug exposure is a plus
- Compassionate Use or Named Patient Programme experience (nice to have)
- Ophthalmology background (nice to have)
- Fully remote with occasional travel
This is a start-up situation, so you will be shaping the medical governance framework, driving scientific strategy, and partnering cross-functionally to ensure a successful pre-launch phase within a lean, agile setup.
Contract: Approximately 6–9 months, through to post-launch readiness.
If you are interested, please get in touch to arrange a confidential discussion.
Interim Medical Lead - Rare disease startup employer: wax.
Contact Detail:
wax. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Medical Lead - Rare disease startup
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the rare disease and ophthalmology sectors. Attend relevant conferences or webinars to connect with key players in the industry, as personal recommendations can significantly boost your chances of landing this role.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest developments in orphan drugs and compassionate use programmes. Being well-versed in current trends and regulations will demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field during discussions.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership experience in Medical Affairs, particularly in a startup environment. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully shaped governance frameworks or driven scientific strategies to showcase your fit for this interim role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research StudySmarter thoroughly and understand our mission and values. Tailoring your conversations to align with our goals will help you stand out as a candidate who is not only qualified but also genuinely interested in contributing to our success.
We think you need these skills to ace Interim Medical Lead - Rare disease startup
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience as an ABPI Final Signatory and any relevant leadership roles in Medical Affairs. Emphasise your exposure to rare diseases and orphan drugs, as well as any specific achievements in ophthalmology.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the opportunity to shape the medical governance framework. Mention your strategic approach to scientific engagement and how your background aligns with the company's mission.
Highlight Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on your experience with Compassionate Use or Named Patient Programmes. Provide examples of how you've successfully navigated similar challenges in a startup environment.
Showcase Leadership Skills: Demonstrate your leadership capabilities by providing specific examples of how you've led teams or projects in the past. Highlight your ability to partner cross-functionally and drive scientific strategy in a lean setup.
How to prepare for a job interview at wax.
✨Showcase Your ABPI Final Signatory Experience
Make sure to highlight your experience as an ABPI Final Signatory during the interview. Discuss specific instances where you ensured compliance and governance in medical affairs, as this is essential for the role.
✨Demonstrate Leadership in Medical Affairs
Prepare examples that showcase your leadership skills in medical affairs. Talk about how you've successfully led teams or projects, particularly in a startup environment, to illustrate your ability to shape strategies and frameworks.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Rare Diseases and Ophthalmology
Even if your background isn't specifically in rare diseases or ophthalmology, do some research on these areas. Being able to discuss current trends, challenges, and innovations will show your genuine interest and readiness for the role.
✨Prepare for Questions on Compassionate Use Programs
Since experience with Compassionate Use or Named Patient Programmes is a nice-to-have, be ready to discuss any relevant experiences or knowledge you have in this area. This could set you apart from other candidates.
