Head of Program Lead
Paris
Portfolio – Portfolio /
Fixed-Term contract /
Hybrid
AQEMIA is a next-gen pharmatech company generating one of the world's fastest-growing drug discovery pipeline. Our mission is to design fast innovative drug candidates for dozens of critical diseases, such as immuno-oncology. Our unique approach leverages quantum-inspired physics algorithms to power generative AI in designing novel drug candidates—without relying on experimental data.
We already delivered several drug discovery successes within our internal pipeline and through collaborations with pharmaceutical companies. Our most advanced programs are currently in vivo optimization. We're in the midst of an expansion growth as we aim to double the number of programmes we work on, with the same projection for the size of all our teams.
Reporting directly to Emmanuelle Martiano, co-founder and COO at AQEMIA and part of the portfolio leadership team, the Head of Program Lead will spearhead the development, progress, and alignment of key programs across our organization. In a fast-paced, growth-driven environment, this role is critical in ensuring our programs are purpose-driven, scientifically sound, and operationally impactful. This position combines high-level program strategy, cross-functional leadership and people management.
Your Responsibilities
Challenge and drive program purpose & progress
- Ensure programs remain relevant, focused, and outcome-oriented through their lifecycle,
- Critically challenge scientific reasoning and technological applications to ensure rigor and relevance,
- Smoothen tech usage and change management
Strategic program assessment & governance
- Conduct regular 360° program assessments, incorporating KPIs, Program Leaders team and stakeholder inputs, and market insights.
- Recommend program continuation, acceleration, or discontinuation based on robust, data-driven evaluation.
- Lead resource allocation discussions, ensuring optimal deployment of talent, capital, and time.
- Provide structured progress reporting to leadership to support effective decision-making and prioritization.
Transversal program methodology
- Support the design, harmonization, and implementation of standardized methodologies for program governance, planning, and execution.
- Champion best practices and continuous improvement across all programs.
- Ensure programs comply with internal processes and external regulatory/industry requirements where applicable.
Team management
- Lead, federate, mentor and grow a high-performing team of Program Leaders.
- Define role expectations, support development plans, and foster a strong culture of accountability and collaboration.
- Drive talent acquisition to build and scale the program management team in line with organizational needs.
What We’re Looking For
- Scientific background PhD (Chemistry, Biology) preferred, MD, PharmD or Engineer
- Consulting in lifesciences (past or current experience) with a focus on asset positioning or R&D portfolio management
- Strategic thinker with strong analytical depth
- Experience in startup biotech or CRO is a plus
- Excellent leadership and people management capabilities, including experience managing, hiring and developing talent
- Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Comfortable at navigating ambiguity.
- Curious, quick learner and problem solver
Mindset & Values
Passionate about contributing to a mission-driven biotech company changing how drugs are discovered.
Motivated by solving hard problems and making strategic decisions in uncertain environments.
Eager to coach, mentor, and collaborate across disciplines.
Highly organized and adaptable in a fast-paced, evolving setting.
Our recruitment process
- First call with our co-founder and COO Emmanuelle and line manager
- Business case with Emmanuelle and team members
- Management skills assessment with Emmanuelle
- Cultural fit interview with Emmanuelle
- Final interview with our co-founder and CEO Maximilien
Why Join Us ?
At AQEMIA, we work for a mission: joining us means having your own impact on changing the way drugs are discovered, and helping to shape the direction of our fast-growing company and team.
Expanding Drug Discovery Pipeline : Focused on critical therapeutic areas like Oncology, CNS, Immuno-inflammation... with in vivo proof of concept/patent stage programs.
Collaborations with top Pharma, including a $140M Sanofi deal.
Interdisciplinary Team : brilliant talent from tech and life sciences.
DeepTech Recognition: Part of French Tech 120 and France 2030.
Prime Location : Based in central Paris and London (King's Cross) with the possibility of 2 remote days per week.
International Environment : The work language is English - relocation support and French lessons granted if needed.
Strong Financial Backing : $100M raised from leading European and International investors.
