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Executive Director Biotech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

A leading biotech firm is seeking an Executive Director for QA Microbiology. This role requires the implementation of a robust microbiology program and strong oversight of compliance with global ...

As Executive Director of Discovery you will bring your track record as an innovative scientific ... biotechnology, diagnostics, or academic cancer research with increasing scientific leadership ...

The Alliance Management Executive Director will lead the Alliance Management team in supporting the ... biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation. Vertex is committed to equal ...

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Executive Director Biotech information

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$11K

$63.2K

$155K

How much do executive director biotech jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive director biotech in the United States is $63,209.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $84,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Executive Director in biotech?

An Executive Director in biotech is a senior leadership position responsible for overseeing the strategic direction, operations, and growth of a biotechnology company or specific department. They play a critical role in managing teams, developing business strategies, ensuring regulatory compliance, and driving research and development initiatives. Executive Directors often act as the main point of contact for investors, partners, and regulatory agencies, and are instrumental in shaping the company’s long-term vision and success. Their responsibilities may also include fundraising, budgeting, and representing the company at industry events.

What are some key challenges faced by an Executive Director in the biotech industry, and how can I prepare for them?

As an Executive Director in biotech, you will often navigate complex regulatory requirements, manage multidisciplinary teams, and balance scientific innovation with business objectives. One common challenge is ensuring projects meet both scientific rigor and commercial viability within tight timelines and budgets. To prepare, it's helpful to develop strong leadership skills, stay current on industry trends and regulatory changes, and foster open communication across research, clinical, and commercial departments. Building a network of experienced advisors and continuously enhancing your strategic planning abilities can also help you effectively address these challenges.

What is the difference between Executive Director Biotech vs Research Scientist Biotech?

AspectExecutive Director BiotechResearch Scientist Biotech
CredentialsAdvanced degrees (PhD, MD), extensive experienceTypically PhD or Master's in relevant field
Work EnvironmentLeadership, strategic planning, managementLaboratory research, experimental work
Employer & Industry UsageBiotech companies, pharma firms, biotech divisionsResearch institutions, biotech R&D departments
Search & Comparison IntentHigh-level management, strategic rolesResearch, scientific development

The main difference between an Executive Director Biotech and a Research Scientist Biotech lies in their roles and responsibilities. The Executive Director focuses on leadership, strategic planning, and managing teams, often requiring extensive experience and advanced degrees. In contrast, the Research Scientist is primarily involved in laboratory research and scientific experimentation. Both roles are vital in the biotech industry but serve different functions within organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Executive Director in Biotech, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Executive Director in Biotech, you need extensive experience in life sciences, advanced degrees (often a PhD or MBA), and a proven track record in strategic leadership and business development. Familiarity with drug development pipelines, regulatory compliance (such as FDA or EMA guidelines), and financial management systems is crucial. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and team leadership skills set successful candidates apart. These skills ensure effective organizational direction, successful product development, and sustained growth in a highly regulated and competitive industry.
More about Executive Director Biotech jobs
What cities are hiring for Executive Director Biotech jobs? Cities with the most Executive Director Biotech job openings:
What states have the most Executive Director Biotech jobs? States with the most job openings for Executive Director Biotech jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Executive Director Biotech jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Executive Director Biotech jobs are:
Infographic showing various Executive Director Biotech job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,209 per year, or $30.4 per hour.
Director/Executive Director - gRED Center

Director/Executive Director - gRED Center

Genentech

South San Francisco, CA

$201K - $442K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Genentech rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 71 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Genentech is seeking an exceptional Project Director/Executive Director to lead one of our most transformative capital initiatives: the conception and delivery of a groundbreaking 1.25M square foot research campus comprising seven state-of-the-art buildings at our South San Francisco headquarters. This is a rare opportunity to direct a monumental, complex project from inception through completion-one that will shape the future of biotech innovation and require visionary leadership, deep technical expertise, and the ability to orchestrate a dynamic ecosystem of internal teams, executive stakeholders, architects, engineers, and specialized consultants. As the head of this strategic capital program, you'll be accountable for seamless execution across all project phases while ensuring alignment with Roche's functional, strategic, and financial objectives. If you're a seasoned construction leader with 15+ years managing large-scale, complex projects in California, possess exceptional executive presence, and thrive on building high-performing teams in ambiguous, high-stakes environments, this role offers the chance to leave a lasting legacy at one of the world's leading life sciences organizations.

The Opportunity

The Campus Development organization is responsible for delivering the Genentech South San Francisco Campus of the future. Within Campus Development, the Project Director/Executive Director has responsibility for delivering a monumental and complex project program, to successful completion. This Project Director/Executive Director role is responsible for effective project execution of all phases including planning, design, construction and closeout, assuring that the project achieves functional, strategic, and financial goals. The Project Director/Executive Director reports to the Executive Director of Campus Development and is the head of the capital project.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead the successful implementation of a monumental capital project-a new 1.25M Gross Square Feet research facility across seven buildings at the South San Francisco Campus-with overall accountability for all project phases from planning through closeout.

  • Oversee a large team of direct reports, contractors, architects, engineers, and consultants while ensuring seamless collaboration with user teams and executive leadership (including Vice Presidents and senior company leadership).

  • Ensure timely, cost-effective, and quality delivery of the project while meeting financial targets and strategic objectives, maintaining strict compliance with Roche directives, local building codes, fire protection regulations, and all applicable Technical Standards.

  • Develop, manage, and strategically allocate financial resources through rigorous budgeting, forecasting, and cost control to optimize project financial performance.

  • Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate project risks, employing strategic risk management and insurance minimization approaches to safeguard project success.

  • Cultivate a collaborative and high-performance team environment that leverages internal and external resources effectively, inspiring teams to deliver excellence.

  • Champion industry best practices and emerging technologies to drive innovation in capital project delivery while maintaining alignment with strategic goals throughout the project lifecycle.

Who you are

  • Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering (Civil, Structural, Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical), Quality Surveying or Construction Management.

  • 15+ years of extensive experience in managing large-scale construction projects, with profound expertise in Project Management in California.

  • Proven track record in delivering monumental, complex projects within large existing campus environments.

Skills and Competencies:

  • Exceptional leadership, executive presence, and interpersonal communication skills (written and verbal) with demonstrated ability to guide and mentor large, interdisciplinary project teams.

  • Strong business and technical acumen with advanced expertise in project management tools, methodologies, and construction delivery in complex, large-scale environments.

  • Highly dependable, detail-oriented, self-starter with the ability to work independently while establishing and maintaining robust communication channels with all stakeholders to keep teams aligned and informed.

Relocation benefits are not available for this posting.

The expected salary range for this position based on the primary location of California is $201,500 - $442,100. Actual pay will be determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other job-related factors permitted by law. A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and Company performance. This position also qualifies for the benefits detailed at the link provided below.

Benefits

Genentech is an equal opportunity employer. It is our policy and practice to employ, promote, and otherwise treat any and all employees and applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. The company's policy prohibits unlawful discrimination, including but not limited to, discrimination on the basis of Protected Veteran status, individuals with disabilities status, and consistent with all federal, state, or local laws.

If you have a disability and need an accommodation in relation to the online application process, please contact us by completing this form Accommodations for Applicants.


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About Genentech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

A member of the Roche Group, Genentech has been at the forefront of the biotechnology industry for more than 40 years, using human genetic information to develop novel medicines for serious and life-threatening diseases. Genentech has multiple therapies on the market for cancer & other serious illnesses. Please take this opportunity to learn about Genentech where we believe that our employees are our most important asset & are dedicated to remaining a great place to work.

Industry

Scientific research and development services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

South San Francisco, CA, US

Year founded

1976

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