CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER (CMO)

Bio Usawa seeks an accomplished and visionary Chief Medical Officer (CMO) to lead our Clinical Development and Medical Affairs strategies while driving excellence across our Pan-African operations. As a key member of the executive team, the CMO will provide strategic oversight of Clinical Development, Clinical Operations, Medical Affairs, Biometrics, Drug Safety & Risk Management and Pharmacovigilance. This role demands a collaborative leader capable of fostering cross-functional alignment with R&D, Manufacturing/CMC, Regulatory, Business Development (BD), and Corporate Development teams to advance our pipeline and corporate objectives.

Preferred Location:

• Based in or willing to relocate to East Africa (preferably Rwanda). Hybrid work arrangements may be considered for exceptional candidates.

• Strategic Leadership: Spearhead the development and execution of global clinical and medical strategies, ensuring alignment with corporate goals and regulatory standards.
• Clinical Development & Operations: Oversee the design, implementation, and management of clinical trials, including protocol development, data analysis, and trial execution.
• Medical Affairs: Direct medical communications, stakeholder engagement, and scientific advocacy to enhance Bio Usawa’s reputation as a leader in oncology and ophthalmology.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with R&D, Manufacturing/CMC, Regulatory, BD, and Corporate Development to identify and prioritize pipeline opportunities, supporting due diligence and partnership initiatives.
• Regulatory Excellence: Drive submissions (e.g., BLAs, NDAs) and ensure compliance with global regulatory requirements.
• Team Leadership: Mentor and lead Regional Medical Directors and multidisciplinary teams, fostering a culture of innovation, accountability, and professional growth.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

• M.D. with board certification or specialized training in Oncology or Ophthalmology.
• Minimum 10 years in clinical practice, translational medicine, or pharmaceutical/biotech sectors, with a focus on oncology or ophthalmology.
• Proven track record in clinical trial strategy, operations, and global regulatory submissions (BLA/NDA experience preferred).
• Prior experience with Post Marketing Surveillance
• Prior leadership experience in a biotech startup or growth-stage company is highly desirable.
• Prior experience in large molecule (i.e., recombinant protein) development and/or commercialization is also highly desirable.
• Strategic thinker with exceptional decision-making and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Deep understanding of Pan-African healthcare landscapes and regulatory environments.