Executive Director, Chemical Biology/Drug Design

For our client, we are seeking a Executive Director, Chemical Biology/Drug Design to join the team of a leader in the Pharmaceuticals & Biotech space. This leader is looking for a senior scientific executive to guide chemical biology strategy at the intersection of discovery chemistry, target identification, and translational research. In this role, you will shape multi-year technical direction, build high-performing teams, and partner closely with biology, platform, and portfolio leaders to advance novel therapeutic opportunities. The position requires both deep scientific rigor and the ability to influence senior stakeholders in an ambiguous, fast-moving environment. You will also help connect internal and external chemistry efforts to screening, validation, and mechanistic studies that inform go/no-go decisions. The ideal candidate will translate complex biological questions into actionable chemistry strategies while contributing to intellectual property and partnering discussions that support broader pipeline goals. Location: Remote - US based candidates only, no visa sponsorship available Compensation: $237,600 – $284,900 annually Responsibilities Set and drive chemical biology strategy aligned with the multiomics platform Build, manage, and mentor a team of multiomics chemists in a coaching-driven environment Establish and manage internal and external chemistry teams for screening and validation campaigns Collaborate with biology and target ID teams to align chemical biology strategy with platform capabilities Define program strategy and go/no-go criteria in alignment with senior leadership and portfolio priorities Represent the team in portfolio reviews and lead technical discussions with external partners Contribute to IP strategy and business development related to novel chemical matter Qualifications PhD in chemical biology, chemistry, or a related field 10+ years of industry experience Proven track record in chemical probe design, including selective inhibitors and molecular glue degraders Experience deconvoluting phenotypic hits to mechanisms via chemoproteomics or similar methods Demonstrated ability to build and scale a chemical biology function, including hiring and mentoring Experience setting multi-year technical strategies rather than executing single program plans Comfortable operating in ambiguous environments and translating biological questions into actionable chemistry strategies Strong executive-level communication skills with the ability to influence senior leaders Benefits Remote work flexibility with an option for in-office collaboration in Salt Lake City, Utah Comprehensive benefits package including annual bonus and equity compensation Opportunity to work with cutting-edge AI/ML-driven design technology Engagement in a coaching-driven environment fostering professional growth Participation in shaping the future of therapeutic modalities across diverse areas Our client is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet every qualification—your background could be exactly what this team needs.