Head of Research And Development

Aspire Pharma Ltd
Cambridge
4 days ago
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Sr. Director, Head of Scientific Affairs and R&D


Competitive Salary & Company Benefits | Petersfield/UK or EU (Hybrid)


Monday to Friday, 9.00am - 5.00pm (potential for flexibility on start/end times based on 7.5hrs/day)



Are you looking to work for a rapidly growing UK Pharmaceutical company that is passionate about improving patients’ lives across the world?


Aspire Pharma is an asset-light pharmaceutical manufacturer. It licenses and develops niche pharmaceutical products that offer innovative formulations, value for money for payors, and reliable supply arrangements in markets that are often underserved. The business has a highly diversified portfolio of more than 250 products across several categories, including branded specialty products and unbranded niche generics in therapeutic areas such as urology, ophthalmology, CNS, and dermatology.


Do you want to be part of the journey?


If so, here is your chance!




The Role


We are seeking a visionary and accomplished Sr. Director, Head of Scientific Affairs and R&D to lead Aspire Pharma’s research and development, compliance and sustainability, and scientific functions. Reporting to the Chief Medical Officer this role will focus on driving innovation, managing a diverse R&D pipeline, and ensuring compliance with global regulatory and compliance standards. The role is instrumental in advancing Aspire Pharma’s portfolio of generics, high-IP products, biosimilars, and medical devices from in-house development to market launch, and leading the scientific support to cross functional activities across the organization.



What will you be doing?



R&D Strategy Development & Execution:

- Develop and execute the company’s R&D strategy, aligning with corporate goals and strategic pillars.

- Govern the development process and oversee all stages of product development, ensuring timely market launches.




R&D Pipeline Management:

- Manage and expand the R&D pipeline, prioritizing impactful projects to ensure Aspire Pharma’s growth.

- Identify opportunities for innovation through in-house developments or strategic collaborations.


Scientific Affairs, Compliance, and Sustainability Leadership:

- Provide strategic oversight of scientific affairs, compliance, and sustainability functions.

- Ensure Aspire Pharma remains at the forefront of scientific advancements in generics, biosimilars and high IP products.


Cross-Functional Leadership:

- Collaborate with regulatory, quality, operations, business development, and commercial teams to align R&D projects with market and regulatory needs.

- Integrate sustainability into the R&D function to support broader ESG goals.


Team Leadership and Development:

- Lead, mentor, and develop high-performing R&D and Compliance & Sustainability teams.

- Promote a culture of scientific excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement.


Budget and Resource Allocation:

- Manage R&D, scientific affairs and compliance budgets effectively, optimizing resources for high-potential projects.

- Ensure efficient operations without compromising quality or innovation.



The Person


- Advanced degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, Biology, or related field (Ph.D. preferred).

- Extensive leadership experience in pharmaceutical R&D, with expertise in generics, biosimilars, and complex formulations.

- Deep knowledge of product development processes with focus on CMC, global regulatory requirements and regulations - Strong collaboration and communication skills to engage with cross-functional teams and external stakeholders.

- Proven ability to drive innovation and solve complex scientific and operational challenges.




Why join us?



As well as a fantastic, inclusive company culture where employees are truly valued and a competitive salary, we also offer an ever-improving benefits scheme to support your physical and mental well-being, including:


- Generous Pension Scheme.

- Life Assurance cover and Employee Assistance Program.

- 25 days’ holiday plus Bank Holidays.

- Learning and Development opportunities.

- Excellent opportunities for progression.

- Fantastic company events and celebrations throughout the year.


If you’re ready to lead Aspire Pharma’s scientific and R&D efforts and make a significant impact in the pharmaceutical industry, we would love to hear from you!

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