Apnimed is a well-funded, clinical-stage pharmaceutical company working to transform the treatment of sleep apnea based on a simple idea - patients with obstructive sleep apnea could benefit from treatment with a safe and effective oral medication dosed once daily at bedtime. Our lead development program targets the neurologic control of upper airway muscles to maintain an open airway during sleep. Based in Cambridge, Mass., we are developing a portfolio of novel pharmacologic therapies for sleep apnea and related disorders.
The Senior Director, Field Medical Affairs, will be responsible for building and leading the Medical Science Liaison (MSL) team and overseeing development and execution of the Medical Affairs field strategy in preparation for the launch of Apnimed's lead compound, AD109. This role will focus heavily on establishing relationships with key external stakeholders, including health care professionals (HCPs) and key opinion leaders (KOLs) while ensuring alignment with organizational objectives. The ideal candidate will be a true medical "triple threat" demonstrating high levels of scientific excellence, business acumen, and emotional intelligence.
This leader will report to the Vice President, Medical Affairs, and may be based remotely.
Key Job Duties include, but are not limited to:
Recruit, train and manage a high-performing team of U.S. MSLs, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous development
Provide leadership and support to direct reports, ensuring they have the necessary tools, guidance and training to elevate their business and scientific acumen and execute consistent, high-quality interactions with key stakeholders
Develop and implement field processes, metrics and strategic territory plans that optimize MSL activities in alignment with medical affairs objectives
Oversee appropriate scientific exchange with the external medical community, ensuring fair and balanced communication of medical and scientific information, as well as pull-through of key scientific messaging relevant to Apnimed's pipeline
Identify and cultivate strong relationships with HCPs, KOLs, digital opinion leaders (DOLs) and payers to drive scientific dialogue relevant to AD109 and raise awareness of the unmet needs in obstructive sleep apnea
Gather and communicate field insights to drive actionable recommendations to inform medical and commercial strategy.
Work in close partnership with cross-functional teams, including Medical Affairs, Market Access, Clinical Development and Sales(when they are hired) in a compliant manner to ensure strategic and tactical alignment, enhance communications between headquarters and field functions, and maximize in-field effectiveness
Build and maintain technical and clinical expertise in obstructive sleep apnea, including awareness of current treatment strategies, market issues and trends, and new therapeutic developments to inform strategy and identify opportunities for growth
Ensure Field Medical Affairs team adherence to company policies, regulatory guidelines and compliance requirements in all aspects of HCP interactions and scientific exchange.
Education:
Doctoral degree in life sciences required (MD, PharmD or PhD)
Training in pulmonary, neuroscience, sleep medicine or other chronic disease area preferred
Work-related Skills & Experience
10+ years of biopharmaceutical industry experience as a MSL required, with 5+ years of experience developing and managing a field MSL team
Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire a team, fostering a collaborative and results-driven environment
Excellent communicator with exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders
Experience with all phases of drug development, including multiple drug launches across a variety of therapeutic areas
Additional experience working in headquarter roles including Clinical Development, Medical Affairs or Market Access preferred
Proven ability and affinity to work collaboratively in a cross-functional environment
Keen ability to quickly and consistently build and maintain high levels of trust with internal and external stakeholders
Strategic mindset with the ability to analyze complex data to inform decision-making and drive operational excellence
Skilled in interpreting medical literature and translating data into a compelling scientific story
Highly resourceful, self-motivated and has the ability to thrive in an entrepreneurial environment
Unimpeached track record of the highest levels of integrity, honesty and ethics
Ability to travel up to 50%, including overnight stays as needed
What Apnimed Offers:
401(k) with company match
Generous time off for vacation
Generous healthcare benefits
Flexible working environment
Motivated and experienced team
Location and Other Information:
Apnimed is a privately held company based in Cambridge, MA; we are generally virtual and specific location within the US is flexible.
Apnimed is an EEO employer committed to an exciting, diverse, and enriching work environment.
Please visit us at www.apnimed.com to learn more about our work with Obstructive Sleep Apnea