Case study

SVP Clinical Development

Europe, Americas
A scientist in a lab coat and gloves works with test tubes. A glowing digital brain illustration overlaps, symbolizing neuroscience research.

THE CHALLENGE

A Boston-based biotech developing therapies for rare neurological diseases needed an SVP of Clinical Development to lead its programs from pre-IND through approval. The role required a senior M.D. with hands-on leadership, emotional intelligence, and the ability to manage cross-functional teams, while overseeing regulatory submissions and shaping clinical strategy.  

The ideal candidate also needed rare late-stage neurology experience and strong academic credentials. Timing was critical: previous searches with other firms had been ongoing for several months without success, making it essential to find the right leader quickly to maintain momentum in the company’s clinical programs. 

THE SOLUTION

Miramar conducted a comprehensive market mapping of the competitive landscape in neurology, expanding into adjacent therapeutic areas to widen the candidate pool. We leveraged deep referral networks, including CMOs, R&D heads, CEOs, and board members, to provide early advocacy and market insights.  

The search extended across the U.S. and globally, while maintaining a Boston anchor to align with the client’s geographic priorities. A tailored assessment process was designed to evaluate candidates’ clinical experience, leadership style, emotional intelligence, and cultural fit, ensuring alignment with both the role and the organization’s values. 

THE RESULT

Over the course of the search:  

  • 100+ candidates were identified, along with key insights on evolving trial dynamics in neurology therapeutics.  
  • A highly qualified shortlist was delivered within three weeks, with weekly updates maintaining momentum.  
  • Within four weeks, the client met six strong candidates with end-to-end clinical development experience and top-tier references.  
  • The position was successfully filled by an M.D./Ph.D. with 10 years of clinical care and nearly 20 years in industry experience, spanning pre-IND to approval across multiple programs in the target disease area and modality. 

The impact

The appointment provided the biotech with critical clinical leadership at a pivotal stage of its development pipeline. The new SVP has enabled the company to accelerate clinical programs, navigate regulatory processes effectively, and inspire high-performing teams.  

The client praised the search for its speed, tailored approach, and depth of network, highlighting that the position was filled in approximately a month after being vacant for over a year. This hire has strengthened the organization’s ability to execute complex clinical strategies and advance therapies for rare neurological diseases.