Filling critical VP roles for a US-based gene therapy biotech ahead of a global study launch.

Problems identified

AskBio struggled to attract qualified candidates for two VP of Clinical Development positions. The first role required specific experience in rare disease therapy and movement disorders, including previous physician experience and a history of submitting New Drug Applications (NDA).

The second role, while still requiring rare disease expertise, had a broader therapeutic requirement but also necessitated physician experience and NDA submission knowledge. Both positions had been open for a month with minimal suitable applicants, and the existing candidates AskBio had in process did not meet all role requirements.

The unique reporting structure, where the VPs would report to a senior VP that had progressed through academia rather than through directly obtaining a medical doctorate, required candidates to be open to a different professional dynamic than they might be accustomed to.

What was at stake

The successful hiring for these roles was crucial for the launch of a Global Phase II study, which was set to begin in Q3. Failure to fill these positions within three months would impact the trial's initiation and potentially delay important research milestones.

Results

Our strategic approach led to the successful placement of both VP roles within the required timeframe. For the VP of Clinical Development, Movement Disorders, we closed the search on June 6th, a turnaround time of 10 weeks. For the VP of Clinical Development, Neurogenetic Diseases, the role was filled by June 5th, within 8 weeks.

Impact

The timely placements will enable AskBio to proceed with their Phase II trial on schedule later this year, supporting their broader goal of advancing genetic medicine and AAV gene therapy. This success reinforced our partnership with AskBio, demonstrating our ability to deliver under tight deadlines and complex requirements.