Chief Executive Officer
WFA Digital Insight
The demand for innovative biotech leaders grew significantly in 2025, with a 25% increase in seed funding for botanical drug development. Magdalena Biosciences stands out with its unique approach to mental health treatments. As a CEO in this space, candidates need to possess a deep understanding of FDA guidelines and CNS indications. With the remote job market booming, this role offers a rare chance to lead a pioneering company. Before applying, candidates should be aware of the regulatory landscape and the challenges of driving a lean, resource-constrained team to success.
Job Description
About the Role
Magdalena Biosciences is seeking a visionary Chief Executive Officer to lead the company through its seed expansion, drive early pipeline development, and secure a successful Series A financing round. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of FDA botanical drug guidance, Central Nervous System (CNS) indications, and early-stage biotech operations. As the CEO, you will be responsible for driving strategic clarity, turning raw botanical innovation into a validated, commercializable clinical pipeline.The company's mission is to develop novel, plant-derived, pharmaceutical-grade prescription medicines for mental health disorders, initially focusing on adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), depression, and anxiety. Magdalena Biosciences leverages Jaguar's proprietary library of 2,300 highly characterized medicinal plants and Filament's advanced drug development technology, offering safe, novel mechanisms of action compared to chemically synthesized small-molecule drugs.
As the CEO, you will report to the Board of Directors and will be responsible for building and leading a lean, elite, cross-functional team across R&D, clinical operations, and program management.
What You Will Do
- Define the company's scientific and corporate trajectory, ensuring an efficient path from preclinical study initiation to validated programs
- Prioritize indications, establishing milestone-driven development plans for high-value targets optimized for a capital-efficient seed-to-Series-A timeline
- Proactively identify and derisk scientific, regulatory, and operational assumptions early in the development lifecycle
- Lead all financing activities, maximizing seed expansion and driving the strategy for a successful Series A raise
- Build and maintain high-trust relationships with venture capitalists, impact investors, and strategic partners
- Craft and articulate a compelling, scientifically credible company narrative to external stakeholders
- Build and lead a lean, elite, cross-functional team across R&D, clinical operations, and program management
- Foster a hands-on, data-driven, and execution-focused culture that rewards smart risk-taking and rapid learning
- Engage and manage scientific founders, advisors, and the Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) to maximize platform development
- Identify, negotiate, and execute strategic partnerships with academic institutions, biotechnology startups, and large pharmaceutical companies
- Oversee relationships with contract service providers, specialized funding bodies, and CROs to ensure disciplined, externalized execution
What We Are Looking For
- Proven track record as a Founder, CEO, CRO, COO, CSO, Head of R&D, or senior Business Development executive within an early-stage biotechnology startup
- Demonstrated success raising capital, building investor trust, and securing venture financing
- Direct experience in botanical drug development, appetite suppression, or neuropsychiatric/CNS drug pipelines
- Proven capability to execute disciplined prioritization and achieve results within resource-constrained environments
- Ability to speak the language of science fluently and engage meaningfully with research and development teams
- Strong understanding of FDA botanical drug guidance and CNS indications
- Experience in leading cross-functional teams and fostering a culture of innovation and execution
Nice to Have
- Experience with plant-derived pharmaceuticals and mental health treatments
- Knowledge of regulatory frameworks and guidelines for botanical drug development
- Familiarity with venture capital and impact investing in the biotech industry
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive salary and equity package
- Comprehensive health insurance and benefits
- Flexible remote work arrangements and stipend
- Opportunities for professional growth and development in a pioneering biotech company
- Access to a network of scientific founders, advisors, and industry experts
- Participation in a data-driven, execution-focused culture that rewards innovation and risk-taking
How to Stand Out
- Develop a strong understanding of FDA botanical drug guidance and CNS indications to stand out as a candidate
- Showcase your ability to drive strategic clarity and turn innovation into commercializable pipelines
- Highlight your experience in leading cross-functional teams and fostering a culture of innovation and execution
- Be prepared to discuss your approach to risk mitigation and derisking scientific, regulatory, and operational assumptions
- Research the company's unique approach to mental health treatments and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to its mission
- Prepare to talk about your experience with venture capital and impact investing in the biotech industry
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