Senior Director Translational

Senior Director / Executive Director, Translational BiologyLocation: Greater Los Angeles Area (Onsite) – Relocation Assistance AvailableCompany: Confidential, venture-backed biotechnology company advancing innovative therapiesacross Rare Disease, Immunology, and NeurologyWe are partnering with a well-funded, rapidly growing biotechnology company that is developing a pipeline of novel therapeutics across rare diseases, immune-mediated disorders, and neurological conditions. As the organization expands its development portfolio, they are seeking a Senior Director / Executive Director of Translational Biology to provide strategic leadership across translational research and development activities from discovery through clinical proof-of-concept.This is a critical leadership position for an experienced drug developer who can bridge discovery science and clinical development, leveraging translational insights to accelerate programs toward meaningful patient outcomes. The successful candidate will serve as a key scientific leader, influencing portfolio strategy while helping advance multiple assets through regulatory and clinical milestones.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and lead the company's translational biology strategy across programs spanning Rare Disease, Immunology, and Neurology.Drive translational research efforts from target validation through clinical development, ensuring alignment between preclinical findings and clinical objectives.Establish and oversee biomarker strategies, including target engagement, pharmacodynamic, predictive, prognostic, and patient stratification biomarkers.Integrate preclinical, translational, and clinical datasets to guide development decisions and optimize program progression.Partner closely with Discovery, Clinical Development, Regulatory Affairs, Toxicology, DMPK, Bioinformatics, and external collaborators to advance programs efficiently.Provide scientific leadership for IND-enabling studies and regulatory submissions, including authoring and reviewing key sections of IND documentation.Support clinical-stage programs through interpretation of translational and biomarker data, helping inform trial design, dose selection, and development strategy.Contribute to NDA-enabling activities and late-stage development planning where applicable.Assess emerging technologies, competitive intelligence, and scientific advancements to strengthen portfolio strategy.Build, mentor, and lead high-performing translational biology teams while effectively managing CROs, consultants, and academic collaborators.Serve as a key scientific representative to executive leadership, Board members, investors, and external partners.QualificationsPhD in Biology, Immunology, Neuroscience, Pharmacology, Translational Medicine, or a related scientific discipline.12+ years of biotechnology and/or pharmaceutical industry experience, including significant leadership responsibilities within drug development organizations.Deep expertise in translational biology supporting therapeutic programs from discovery through clinical development.Experience within Rare Disease, Immunology, Neurology, or closely related therapeutic areas.Proven track record advancing multiple programs through IND submission and early clinical development.Direct experience supporting IND filings and regulatory interactions.Exposure to NDA submissions, registration-enabling studies, or late-stage development activities strongly preferred.Strong understanding of biomarker discovery, validation, and implementation in drug development.Demonstrated success leading cross-functional teams and influencing strategic decisions across complex development programs.Experience operating effectively within fast-paced, entrepreneurial biotechnology environments.Exceptional communication and leadership skills with the ability to engage both scientific and executive stakeholders.Why Join?Opportunity to lead translational strategy across a diverse portfolio addressing significant unmet medical needs.High-visibility leadership role with substantial influence on company and portfolio direction.Direct collaboration with executive leadership and investors.Science-driven culture focused on innovation, collaboration, and rapid decision-making.Strong financial backing and multiple near-term development milestones.Competitive compensation package including meaningful equity participation and relocation support.This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned translational leader who is passionate about advancing breakthrough therapies and shaping development strategy across Rare Disease, Immunology, and Neurology programs.