Programme Manager

Programme ManagerLocation: Remote (UK) – occasional face-to-face meetings Start: ASAP Reports to: CEO Status: Full-timeAbout the RoleWe are seeking an experienced Programme Manager to lead and coordinate an accelerated development programme through CMC, preclinical, and IND-enabling phases. This is a unique opportunity to join a fast-moving biotech start-up in its build phase, driving execution across multiple CROs and workstreams.The role is remote, requiring a highly flexible, hands-on approach and the ability to operate beyond rigid functional boundaries.Key Responsibilities:Programme Leadership:Maintain and drive the integrated development plan (CMC → PK → tox → IND).Own critical path, dependencies, risks, and mitigation strategies.Lead weekly operational cadence across internal teams and CROs.Adapt execution structure as the programme scales.Vendor & CRO Management:Manage interactions with CROs across CMC, enzyme engineering, PK/PD, and in-vivo studies.Oversee SOWs, change orders, deliverables, budgets, and issue escalation.Ensure structured communication and alignment across all vendors.CMC & Preclinical Coordination:Coordinate execution across analytics, linker/payload activities, formulation strategy, biodistribution, PK studies, and GLP tox planning.Timeline, Budget & Documentation:Own Gantt charts, budget tracking, and deliverable logs.Ensure complete documentation and data-room organisation.Prepare operational materials for investors, advisors, and Board.Regulatory Readiness:Coordinate packages and timelines supporting IND-enabling activities.Liaise with regulatory consultants to ensure programme alignment.Build-Phase Flexibility:Operate effectively in a lean, high-intensity start-up environment.Contribute to establishing processes, templates, and operational cadence.Comfortable working outside narrow functional boundaries when needed.Candidate Profile:Essential Experience:5+ years as a Programme/ Project Manager in biotech or CRO environments.Proven experience coordinating CMC and/or preclinical development programmes.Strong CRO/vendor management across multiple concurrent workstreams.Experience managing complex development timelines and budgets.Familiarity with biologics/ADC/large molecule workflows.Desirable Experience:Exposure to ADCs or antibody-based therapeutics.Experience in early-stage or lean biotech settings.Contribution to IND-enabling packages.Personal Attributes:Highly structured, delivery-focused, and operationally rigorous.Independent, proactive, and comfortable with ambiguity.Strong communicator with excellent organisational discipline.Thrives in a remote-first, high-accountability environment.Ready to take ownership of a high-impact development programme and help bring first-in-class therapeutics to patients? Apply now by sending your CV today!