Head of Innovative Development & Chief Medical Officer

We’re looking for a visionary leader to lead exciting innovative drug development in rare diseases.

A unique opportunity to join a global organization, lead strategic programs, and drive meaningful impact on patients’ lives worldwide.

Akiva

We are seeking an exceptional clinical development leader to spearhead our innovative drug development programs in rare diseases.

This is a strategic and high-impact leadership role at the forefront of medical innovation — combining scientific excellence, operational leadership, and cross-functional collaboration at a global scale.

In this dual position, you will serve as:

• Head of Innovative Development — shaping and overseeing two innovative programs, integrating preclinical, clinical, CMC, and regulatory functions.
• Chief Medical Officer — leading clinical strategy, protocol design, endpoint definition, investigator engagement, and interactions with leading regulatory authorities (FDA and EMA).

You will play a central role in building and defining the company’s innovative development unit, collaborating closely with the generic development organization and external partners worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

Define and lead the scientific and clinical strategy for innovative drug programs in rare diseases.

Design and guide clinical development plans from early-stage through Phase 2 and beyond.

Lead strategic interactions with global regulatory agencies (FDA, EMA).

Partner closely with the different teams to ensure alignment and excellence in execution.

Engage with external experts, KOLs, CROs, and investigators across global networks.

Provide high-level medical leadership and oversight of clinical trials, including safety monitoring and data interpretation.

Advance the programs successfully toward the finish line.

Qualifications

MD or MD/PhD (preferably Neurology, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, or Metabolic Disorders).

Extensive experience in innovative drug development, with demonstrated impact in rare diseases.

Proven leadership in protocol design, regulatory strategy, and cross-functional team management.

Deep understanding of CMC interfaces and clinical development requirements.

Hands-on leadership style, combining strategic vision with operational execution.

Excellent English communication skills, both written and spoken.

Experience in matrix organizations and global development environments.

Preferred Experience

Neurological or metabolic rare diseases.

Familiarity with biomarkers, endpoints, and pediatric clinical trial challenges.

Strong track record of collaborations with both academic and industry partners.

✨ This is an outstanding opportunity to join a leading global company and play a defining role in shaping its innovative development strategy.

You’ll work alongside world-class teams, lead strategic programs, and help bring life-changing therapies to patients with unmet medical needs.

Interested candidates are invited to submit their CV or connect directly for a confidential discussion: [email protected]