Chief Strategy and Business Officer, Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology
About the position The Paul and Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology (MIoB) at the University of Virginia seeks a visionary Chief Strategy/Business Officer to drive strategic planning, innovation, and translational impact across the Institute. The CSO/CBO will work closely with the Head of the Institute and the extended leadership team to define and execute MIoB's strategic priorities, support translational research programs, and advance the Institute's mission to accelerate the discovery and development of transformative medicines. This senior leadership role requires a deep understanding of biotechnology, drug discovery and development, academic-industry partnerships, and philanthropic and venture funding. The CSO/CBO will play a pivotal role in guiding scientific teams through the innovation pipeline, securing resources, and shaping MIoB's long-term trajectory as a national leader in biotechnology. Responsibilities • Lead the development, implementation, and annual update of the Institute's strategic plan. • Provide foresight on emerging scientific, clinical, and industry trends to guide strategic priorities. • Partner with Institute leadership to align programs, faculty recruitment, and infrastructure with long-term goals. • Direct the SPARK program for early-stage drug discovery, including portfolio and project management. • Evaluate, prioritize, and support high-potential translational research projects. • Establish metrics for success and oversee progress of the innovation pipeline. • Collaborate with University leadership to raise, allocate, and steward the Manning Innovation Funds. • Cultivate partnerships with philanthropists, venture funds, biotech/pharma companies, and federal agencies. • Identify and pursue new funding opportunities to sustain and grow the Institute's innovation ecosystem. • Advise faculty, trainees, and entrepreneurial teams in advancing projects through preclinical and clinical development. • Guide researchers through regulatory milestones, including IND-enabling studies and FDA submissions. • Support company formation, intellectual property strategy, and partnerships to translate discoveries into commercial opportunities. • Represent the Institute at national and international forums on biotechnology innovation. • Foster cross-disciplinary collaboration within UVA and with external stakeholders. • Build and strengthen strategic alliances with industry, foundations, and government partners. Requirements • Advanced degree (PhD, MD, PharmD or equivalent) in life sciences, biotechnology, or related field. • Minimum of 10+ years of leadership experience in biotechnology, pharmaceutical R&D, academic research administration, or related innovation ecosystems. • Demonstrated track record in strategic planning, fundraising, and innovation management. • Experience mentoring teams through drug development milestones, including IND submission and/or startup formation. Nice-to-haves • Strategic thinker with ability to translate vision into action. • Strong understanding of drug discovery, preclinical development, and commercialization pathways. • Proven ability to build partnerships across academia, industry, philanthropy and government. • Exceptional communication, leadership, and relationship-building skills. • Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for advancing new therapies to patients. Apply tot his job