Fractional CSO/CMO

Compass Consulting

  • Simi Valley, CA
  • Permanent
  • Part-time
  • 2 months ago
Our client is a stealth startup committed to bringing the next generation of pharmaceutical treatments to combat cancer.Job Title: Fractional Chief Scientific Officer / Chief Medical Officer (Hybrid Role)Location: Remote / HybridTime Commitment: Part-time / FractionalAbout the Opportunity:
  • We are partnering with a stealth-mode, preclinical-stage biotechnology company advancing a first-in-class, small-molecule oncology therapeutic platform derived from a proprietary natural-compound chemical library.
  • With compelling in-vivo tumor eradication data and broad anti-tumor activity across multiple cancer models, the company is poised to move its lead candidate toward IND and first-in-human (FIH) studies.
  • They are seeking a fractional CSO/CMO hybrid who can provide strategic and hands-on leadership across preclinical development, translational planning, IND readiness, and early clinical design.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead the scientific and medical strategy from late-stage preclinical through IND-enabling studies and into FIH trial planning.
  • Guide mechanism-of-action studies, pharmacology, toxicology, and dose rationale in collaboration with discovery and translational teams.
  • Oversee CROs responsible for IND-enabling studies and ensure alignment with regulatory and clinical objectives.
  • Contribute to target product profile, clinical development plan, and biomarker strategy.
  • Work closely with company leadership on pipeline prioritization, scientific positioning, and external communications (including investors and potential partners).
  • Support preparation of regulatory documents and attend meetings with external stakeholders, as needed.?
Qualifications:
  • MD required; oncology or related translational science background preferred.
  • 15+ years of experience in biotech/pharma, including roles with CSO, CMO, or VP-level responsibility.
  • Recent experience in small company (under 10).
  • Strong track record leading oncology programs from preclinical through IND and FIH studies.
  • Deep understanding of tumor biology, solid and hematologic malignancies, and translational strategy.
  • Demonstrated experience managing CROs and external scientific vendors in a resource-constrained, fast-paced environment.
  • Prior experience in early-stage biotech; comfortable operating in a lean, hands-on leadership role.
Why This Role?
  • Opportunity to drive a highly differentiated oncology therapeutic forward from discovery to clinic.
  • Strategic leadership role in a mission-driven, agile organization.
  • Flexible, fractional engagement designed for high-impact contributors.

Compass Consulting