Upkara has developed a novel biopreservation technology (known as Capillary Mediated Vitrification) which has the potential to eliminate cold storage requirements for biological reagents and pharmaceuticals and will enable global deployment of new, life changing science and health care products. By enabling long-term storage of proteins, nucleic acid, and complex biological materials, we can accelerate product development, improve sustainability, and eliminate and improve health equity. In addition to having numerous applications in the biological reagents and biobanking spaces, Upkara’s technology will enable delivery of life-saving medicines to regions lacking cold-chain infrastructure. At Upkara, we’re painting a bold vision of a future where science and medicine break free from the limitations of cold storage and biological instability.
We are seeking an experienced, sales and marketing focused customer driven leader who can build a fully integrated product design and sales organization that will transform the world's biotechnology and healthcare markets through a novel approach to biomolecule stabilization. The CEO will report to the board and maintain an executive team, currently composed of 5 direct reports. Upkara, backed by a seasoned board with decades of expertise in scaling and exiting biotech firms, seeks a CEO to guide its strategic direction. With robust core IP for its groundbreaking biologic stabilization process, the CEO will be instrumental in determining a license vs product development strategy as the company seeks to move from pre-revenue into an accelerated phase of optimized revenue growth. The ideal candidate will work closely with the executive team to advance Upkara's mission, while focusing on go to market strategy and broader commercial development and fundraising where appropriate.
Responsibilities:
- Development and scaling of the go to market and sales functions
- Deal Structuring Leadership: Take charge of the entire deal structuring process, from financial analysis and negotiations to strategic alignment, ensuring compliance with legal standards and achieving corporate objectives
- Proactively and creatively engage with clients to integrate Upkara's proprietary biologic stabilization technology into their business models and workflows, ensuring maximum value extraction and seamless adoption.
- In close collaboration with the executive team and board, decide on the optimal direction for the company's unique biologic stabilization process, evaluating the potential for licensing versus in-house product development.
- Oversee the organization's fiscal functions, placing emphasis on strategic financial planning, robust returns, and long-term financial health including fundraising where appropriate.
- Foster a collaborative executive environment, promoting unity, excellence, and individual growth. Leverage the strengths of the executive team for comprehensive organizational success.
- Build and fortify relationships with the experienced board, stakeholders, partners, and the larger biotech ecosystem, ensuring alignment of expectations and deliverables.
- Feedback Loop: Liaise with internal R&D and product teams, offering insights from the field to influence product enhancements and new product development.
- Cultural Development: Spearhead the development and nurturing of an inclusive company culture that reflects the organization's values, promotes diversity, and enhances employee engagement and retention.
- Team Motivation: Drive team success by setting clear goals, providing motivation and support, and fostering an environment of excellence where continuous improvement is the standard and achievements are recognized.
