Chief Medical Officer (CMO) - Oncology Biotech
Location: New York, NY (Hybrid flexibility)
Overview
On behalf of our client, a high-growth, oncology biotechnology company based in New York, we are seeking a Chief Medical Officer (CMO) to join their executive leadership team. This role presents a rare opportunity to be at the forefront of first-in-class and best-in-class cancer therapeutics, with a focus on early-phase clinical development. The company is leveraging novel platforms and cutting-edge science to transform the treatment landscape in oncology.
As CMO, you will be responsible for leading the company's clinical vision and strategy, with direct oversight of Phase I and II trials, clinical operations, medical affairs, and regulatory interactions. You will serve as a critical member of the executive team, helping to shape corporate direction and drive long-term value creation.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and execute the clinical development strategy, with a focus on early-stage oncology assets (primarily Phases I-II).
- Oversee clinical protocol design, study execution, data analysis, and interpretation to ensure scientific integrity and regulatory readiness.
- Serve as the company's lead medical representative in interactions with regulatory agencies, investigators, partners, and investors.
- Collaborate closely with preclinical, translational, and regulatory teams to ensure seamless integration from bench to bedside.
- Recruit, mentor, and manage a lean, high-performing clinical development team, scaling as needed.
- Contribute to investor presentations, due diligence activities, and partnership discussions with a clear, credible clinical perspective.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with academic collaborators, principal investigators, and key opinion leaders (KOLs) in the oncology space.
Candidate Profile
- Medical Degree (M.D.) required; board certification in oncology, hematology-oncology, or related field strongly preferred.
- Minimum 12-15 years of experience in oncology drug development, including substantial leadership in early clinical trials (Phase I/II).
- Demonstrated track record of successful INDs, trial initiations, and regulatory engagement (FDA/EMA).
- Strategic thinker with a hands-on approach and a passion for translational science and patient impact.
- Excellent communicator with a collaborative leadership style and strong executive presence.
Opportunity Highlights
- Influence the direction of a first-mover biotech company at a critical inflection point
- Drive development of high-potential assets with a robust scientific foundation
- Work alongside a highly experienced executive team and scientific advisory board
- Attractive compensation package, including equity participation