This is a remote position.
We are seeking a dynamic and visionary CEO to lead the commercial transformation of a specialized neuroscience organization, transitioning it from research-focused operations into a market-leading, service-oriented Contract Research Organization (CRO). This is a rare opportunity to combine scientific insight with strategic leadership, scaling a high-value business serving global biotech and pharmaceutical clients.
If you are working remotely regular travel to Vienna will be required.
Key Responsibilities
- Strategic Leadership: Define and execute a multi-year growth strategy, transforming the organization from bespoke research projects into a scalable, standardized service portfolio.
- Commercial Growth: Lead business development, securing Master Service Agreements (MSAs) and high-value contracts with biotech and pharmaceutical clients worldwide.
- Scientific-Commercial Interface: Partner with the CSO/technical leadership to translate complex neuroscience capabilities into client-ready services, ensuring offerings remain at the cutting edge while commercially viable.
- Organizational Scaling: Restructure internal operations, talent, and processes to support scalable, efficient, and high-quality delivery across all projects.
- Financial Oversight: Manage P&L, optimize pricing, and implement margin-focused models to drive self-sustaining revenue and long-term financial stability.
- Market Positioning: Build the organization’s reputation as a trusted partner in neuroscience CRO services, leveraging strategic collaborations, thought leadership, and value-focused messaging.
- Stakeholder Management: Serve as primary interface for investors, partners, and clients, aligning scientific milestones with commercial objectives.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- Revenue growth from recurring partnerships and long-term contracts.
- Launch and successful adoption of a standardized service portfolio.
- Client satisfaction scores and operational delivery excellence (on-time, on-budget).
- Expansion of strategic partnerships and a robust business development pipeline.
- Operational efficiency and scalable infrastructure to support continued growth.
Requirements
Professional Competencies
- Proven ability to lead a high-growth organization, scaling operations while maintaining quality and scientific integrity.
- Strong commercial acumen with experience securing and managing complex contracts with biotech/pharma clients.
- Track record of building, mentoring, and leading high-performing teams in a scientific or technical environment.
- Skilled at bridging the scientific-commercial divide, translating technical capabilities into market-ready services.
- Financially savvy, with P&L responsibility and experience implementing margin-focused, sustainable business models.
Experience & Education
- Advanced degree in Life Sciences, Medicine, or Business (MBA or equivalent executive leadership training preferred).
- Demonstrated credibility in neuroscience or related preclinical research environments.
- Exposure to international markets and the ability to operate effectively in a remote and cross-cultural context.
- Experience with investor relations, strategic partnerships, and organizational transformation.
Leadership Traits
- Visionary, strategic thinker with the ability to anticipate market trends.
- Collaborative, inspiring leader capable of working with strong scientific co-founders.
- Persuasive communicator able to engage clients, investors, and internal teams.
- Resilient, decisive, and results-driven with a clear focus on growth and operational excellence.
Benefits
This is an opportunity to define the future of a specialized neuroscience CRO, combining scientific excellence with commercial impact to drive long-term growth and global recognition.
Apply now to lead, transform, and make an impact in a rapidly evolving industry.
Skills Required
- Advanced degree in Life Sciences, Medicine, or Business
- Proven ability to lead and scale a high-growth organization while maintaining quality and scientific integrity
- Strong commercial acumen and experience securing and managing complex biotech or pharmaceutical contracts
- Track record of building, mentoring, and leading high-performing teams in a scientific or technical environment
- Ability to translate technical capabilities into market-ready services
- P&L responsibility and experience implementing margin-focused, sustainable business models
- Credibility in neuroscience or related preclinical research environments
- Exposure to international markets and ability to work effectively in remote, cross-cultural contexts
- Experience with investor relations, strategic partnerships, and organizational transformation
- MBA or equivalent executive leadership training
What We Do
LUKA GLOBAL GROUP is a European executive-search and talent-management firm supporting deep-tech and life-science startups. It helps early-stage companies recruit the employees needed to drive growth, with a focus on biotechnology, digital health, and medical devices. Through its specialized recruitment activities, the group connects qualified candidates with opportunities across Europe, including roles in emerging healthcare, technology, and research ventures.
