Vice President of Preclinical Drug Development

Overview Workplace: Onsite in San Diego, CA Position Title: Vice President, Preclinical and Clinical Development Salary range: 300,000-320,000/year We are seeking a Vice President of Preclinical & Clinical Development to drive strategy and execution across the full continuum of preclinical drug development for a leading non-profit translational research institute in San Diego. This senior on-site leadership role provides scientific and operational leadership for in vivo pharmacology, efficacy, toxicology, and ADME/PK, taking candidates from discovery through IND filing and into early clinical trials. This role leads cross-functional teams in both small molecule and biologics programs, guiding foundational research, IND-enabling packages, and drug development strategy for a dynamic, high-impact portfolio. Responsibilities Lead scientific and strategic direction for all preclinical pharmacology, efficacy, toxicology, and ADME/PK activities. Oversee the integration of preclinical data to drive lead optimization, candidate selection, dose determination, and seamless clinical translation. Collaborate with chemistry, biology, DMPK, CMC, regulatory, and clinical teams to advance programs. Ensure compliance with GLP standards and regulatory guidelines. Prepare and present IND filings, manage regulatory interactions, and contribute to development strategy. Manage and optimize relationships with CROs, ensuring scientific excellence and operational efficiency across outsourced programs. Build, mentor, and inspire high-performing teams, fostering scientific rigor, collaboration, and accountability. Communicate program strategies, results, and recommendations to stakeholders, leadership, and external review boards. Provide input to portfolio strategy, program reviews, and key organizational decisions. Qualifications PhD in Pharmacology, Toxicology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Cell Biology, or related discipline. 10+ years of pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry experience. Proven success advancing both small molecules and biologics through preclinical development, IND-enabling studies, and early clinical trials. Hands-on and leadership experience with in vivo pharmacology, efficacy models, toxicology, and ADME/PK. Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and managing complex portfolios in a fast-paced R&D setting. Strong knowledge of GLP/GMP regulations and regulatory expectations for IND submissions. Extensive experience with CRO management and outsourced research. Exceptional scientific judgment, communication, and cross-functional influence. Senior leadership or executive experience preferred. Full-time, on-site presence required. Ability to lead large organizations while maintaining hands-on scientific engagement. Benefits Competitive compensation with eligibility for short-term and long-term incentive bonus programs. Employer-contributed retirement plans with optional 403(b). Comprehensive health and welfare benefits (medical, dental, vision, life, disability, EAP). Flexible spending accounts (medical/dependent care). Generous vacation and sick leave policies. Complimentary on-site parking. #J-18808-Ljbffr Kelly Services