Head of IT

This is an exciting chance to be part of a mission-driven company that sits at the intersection of AI and biology. Backed by Series A funding and headquartered in Europe, this startup is pioneering the development of the first universal AI foundation model for biology. By harnessing cutting-edge machine learning, they aim to transform biological research and fuel breakthroughs that will unlock real-world impact across the biomedical ecosystem.

Now entering a critical growth phase, they are building out their IT capabilities from the ground up and are looking for a seasoned Head of IT to steer this function. It's an opportunity to shape the technology backbone of a business set to redefine what's possible in biological innovation.

Your role as Head of IT

• Define and execute the long-term IT vision and strategy to support ambitious R&D and company objectives

• Build and lead a multidisciplinary IT team covering cloud engineering, data infrastructure, security, and company-wide IT services

• Partner closely with the leadership team to identify technology priorities, optimise spend, and future-proof systems

• Design, implement, and fine-tune scalable cloud and computing solutions that power large-scale AI model training

• Establish robust frameworks for monitoring infrastructure, tuning performance, and managing costs across cloud platforms

• Develop a secure, reliable data environment to support complex AI workloads, ensuring data is efficiently stored and accessible

• Drive end-to-end IT operations, including hardware procurement, onboarding, and internal support systems to keep day-to-day operations seamless

• Build strong security practices, ensuring compliance with data privacy and industry standards such as GDPR, HIPAA, and SOC 2

• Mentor and develop the IT team, fostering a collaborative culture rooted in innovation and continuous learning

Experience and qualifications for the Head of IT role

• 10+ years of IT leadership experience, ideally scaling infrastructure in high-growth or deep tech environments

• Strong technical expertise across cloud ecosystems (AWS, GCP, Azure) and large-scale computing architectures

• Proven background in data management and storage tailored for machine learning or intensive data applications

• Deep understanding of cybersecurity, risk management, and compliance frameworks relevant to sensitive data environments

• Hands-on knowledge of IT operations, from hardware and software provisioning to employee support systems

• Excellent problem-solving skills and comfort navigating the pace and ambiguity of a startup setting

• Strong communicator and people leader, with a track record of building, mentoring, and empowering high-performing teams

• Additional strengths such as a background in AI, biology, or direct experience in a startup or deep tech company are highly valued

Perks and benefits

• A collaborative, purpose-driven work culture focused on redefining how AI advances biological science

• Competitive compensation and equity, giving you a stake in the company's long-term success

• Flexible work options, including remote arrangements, to support work-life balance

• Significant scope for professional growth, leadership development, and shaping strategic technology decisions

• The chance to be part of groundbreaking work that could transform how biology is understood and applied globally

For immediate consideration, apply today. If you're exploring similar leadership opportunities within deep tech or AI-led life sciences, please get in touch to discuss how your background could align with other roles we're supporting.