About the job Chief Medical Officer - Immunology and Inflammation
Chief Medical Officer Immunology and Inflammation
Location: San Francisco Bay Area (relocation available)
Company: Stealth, venture-backed biotech advancing next-generation biologics for autoimmune & inflammatory diseases
About the Company
We are an early-stage, VC-backed biotechnology company developing a novel pipeline of engineered biologics aimed at treating complex autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. Our approach integrates advanced protein engineering with translational immunology to bring highly differentiated therapies into first-in-human studies and early proof-of-concept clinical trials.
As we prepare to enter the clinic, we are seeking a seasoned Chief Medical Officer to lead our overall clinical and translational strategy.
Role Overview
The CMO will serve as the senior-most medical leader, responsible for shaping and executing early clinical development strategyfrom IND/CTA-enabling plans through first-in-human and proof-of-concept studies in I&I. This role is ideal for a clinical development leader who has successfully served as CMO in a lean biotech environment and thrives in highly cross-functional, collaborative, science-driven settings.
Key Responsibilities
Clinical Strategy & Execution
- Lead the design and execution of early-phase clinical trials, with emphasis on proof-of-concept studies in autoimmune & inflammatory indications.
- Oversee clinical development plans, protocol design, KOL engagement, study governance, safety oversight, and data interpretation.
- Ensure clinical programs are efficient, cost-effective, and aligned with biotech-style decision making.
Cross-Functional Leadership
- Partner closely with Translational, Research, CMC, Regulatory, and Program Management teams to drive IND-ready assets forward.
- Build and oversee clinical operations, medical monitoring, safety/pharmacovigilance, and biomarker strategy (in partnership with internal teams and external CROs).
- Represent the company to investors, regulatory authorities, external collaborators, and scientific advisors.
External Engagement
- Leverage an established network of key opinion leaders (KOLs) in I&I to support indication selection, study design, and trial enrollment.
- Build strong relationships with investigators, academic centers, consortia, and industry partners.
Required Qualifications
- MD required (US-educated MD strongly preferred) with specialization in Immunology, Rheumatology, Dermatology, IBD, SLE. In addition, familiarity with Osteoporosis and Obesity will be preferred
- Significant experience in clinical development for Immunology & Inflammation, including early-phase studies and proof-of-concept trial execution. Phase II experience strongly preferred.
- Prior success as a CMO or senior clinical development executive within a biotech company.
- Deep understanding of lean, efficient biotech clinical strategybalancing scientific rigor with operational pragmatism.
- Demonstrated leadership in cross-functional environments with ability to communicate clearly and collaborate across scientific and business teams.
- Strong KOL relationships across autoimmune and inflammatory diseases.
Preferred Experience
- Track record of leading IND/CTA submissions and early human studies.
- Experience advancing biologics, engineered proteins, or immune-modulating therapeutics.
- Time spent in clinical practice is a plus, but industry biotech experience is more critical.
Compensation & Relocation
- Competitive executive-level compensation package, including equity.
- Relocation support available for candidates outside the Bay Area.