Operating Principal, Origination (Director or Senior Director level equivalent)

The Operating Principal will help launch and scale Flagship Pioneering’s NewCos, working across one or more companies to lead operations and strategy, drive corporate development, and partner closely with scientific leadership to translate breakthrough ideas into impact.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategy and operational planning in one or more NewCos.
• Drive corporate development initiatives, including partnerships, financings, and strategic alliances, as well as engagement with Board of Directors and other important stakeholders.
• Engage directly with scientists and company leaders to align technical progress with operational goals.
• Recruit, develop, and manage high-performing teams across functions.
• Partner with Flagship central teams (Finance, Talent, Legal/IP, HR) to bring best-in-class infrastructure to each company.
• Shape and execute operating and long-range plans, ensuring milestones are achieved on time and on budget.
• Build strong external relationships with investors, partners, and key opinion leaders.

Requirements

• MS or PhD in Chemistry, Biology, Physics, or related field.
• 10+ years of experience in biotech, pharma, or life sciences strategy/operations/program management.
• Prior management consulting experience a plus.
• Proven success in strategic, operational, or corporate development leadership, ideally in early-stage biotech.
• Strong scientific acumen; able to quickly grasp novel science and translate it into plans and execution.
• Track record of building and motivating high-performing teams.
• Skilled communicator, able to influence and inspire across investors, partners, and internal teams.
• Expert problem solver; can bring order to chaos and iterate quickly to find solutions.
• Entrepreneurial, resilient, and hands-on; able to adapt and execute with urgency.

About You

You are a dynamic operator and strategist who combines business leadership with scientific fluency. You thrive in fast-moving, entrepreneurial environments and are motivated by building organizations that harness novel science. You set a high bar for yourself and others, balancing precision with agility. You are curious, feedback-driven, and focused on constantly learning how to be the best version of yourself. You face challenges with grit and enthusiasm, while fostering collaboration, shared ownership, and pride in collective achievements.

Education

Advanced degree in life sciences or business preferred (PhD, MD, MBA, or equivalent experience).

Location

Cambridge, MA

Pay

The salary range for this role is $220,000 - $269,500. Compensation will depend on a candidate’s qualifications, skills, competencies, and experience.

Benefits

• Healthcare coverage
• Annual incentive program
• Retirement benefits
• Broad range of other benefits