Head of R&D
Our client is a globally established science‑driven organization supporting advanced research, development, and manufacturing for partners across the healthcare and technology sectors. As part of their continued investment into innovation within China, they are appointing a senior R&D leader to accelerate the expansion of new technologies, digital capabilities, and next‑generation scientific platforms.
Responsibilities
- Lead China‑based R&D activities, including the establishment and management of a new innovation laboratory and its core scientific team.
- Drive the regional innovation roadmap, focusing on advanced chemistry, automation, digital innovation, and next‑generation technology adoption.
- Identify, evaluate, and secure new technologies from local academic, industrial, and commercial ecosystems; build partnerships that support future R&D capability expansion.
- Oversee the delivery of research programs from early concept through execution, ensuring strong alignment with global scientific and strategic priorities.
- Build and maintain high‑value relationships with external scientists, technology partners, universities, and institutes.
- Guide team development, capability building, and talent growth within the R&D organization.
- Champion a culture of innovation, data‑driven decision‑making, and cross‑functional collaboration.
- Represent China R&D in internal scientific forums and global leadership discussions.
Requirements
- PhD in Chemistry, Biology, Biochemistry, Biochemical Engineering, or a related scientific discipline.
- 10+ years of experience in pharmaceutical, biotech, or CDMO‑related R&D environments; experience leading scientific teams or R&D organizations is essential.
- Strong scientific grounding in synthetic chemistry; exposure to bioconjugation or related modalities is advantageous.
- Familiarity with automation technologies, digital R&D tools, data science applications, or modelling is highly desirable.
- Proven ability to build external partnerships and maintain strong networks within scientific and technology ecosystems.
- Excellent leadership capabilities, with experience driving organizational change and capability expansion.
- Fluent English; ability to operate effectively in global‑matrix environments.
If you are interested, please apply with your CV attached.
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your resume and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organizations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.
That's why we recommend registering your resume so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.
Yes, we help with CV and interview preparation. From customized support on how to optimize your CV to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.