Role Overview:

As the Chief Platform Officer (CPO) at WhiteLab Genomics, you will orchestrate not only our operational excellence but also the strategic development of cutting-edge AI and computational models. Your leadership will encompass direct management of specialized teams in AI/ML and Data Engineering, Computational Biology, and Structural Biology (15+ people), along with the transversal Scientific Project Management team coordinating partners’ and clients’ projects (4 people). You will be responsible for overseeing both the platform and project budgets, ensuring that execution aligns with strategic goals, market needs and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic Planning:

   • Collaborate with your teams to identify and integrate new technological/computational solutions that ensure WhiteLab Genomics stays ahead in the competitive landscape of data-driven drug development

   • Develop a comprehensive strategic plan to harness technology efficiently and innovatively, focusing on AI and computational methods within a collaborative partnership framework.

   • Collaborate with the CEO and leadership team to develop and execute WhiteLab’s strategic plan, ensuring technical operations align consistently with business objectives

   • Change management

2. Team Leadership:

   • Set clear objectives for the AI/ML, Computational Biology, and Structural Biology teams, driving accountability and excellence.

   • Cultivate a culture of innovation, encouraging continuous learning and adaptation among team members.

3. Operational Excellence:

   • Work closely with the CEO/CFO to develop and manage operational budgets, forecasts, and financial performance metrics.

   • Manage resource allocation to maintain agility and responsiveness to technological changes and project/partner demands.

   • Introduce performance metrics for continuous monitoring and optimization of operations.

   • Implement scalable processes to ensure the robustness and reliability of our technological infrastructure, establish protocols for quality assurance, compliance and data protection.

4. Project Management:

   • Monitor project timelines and budgets, ensuring resources are allocated effectively and efficiently

   • Facilitate agile project management practices to adapt swiftly to new information and partner feedback.

   • Oversee the entire project lifecycle, from inception through to delivery, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.

5. Collaboration & Communication:

   • Support team experts in their engagement with partners, providing oversight and strategic context for technical discussions.

   • Facilitate effective communication channels that ensure clarity of objectives and transparency in project statuses.

   • Foster an environment of cross-functional collaboration, enabling seamless integration of insights and expertise across projects.

• Education:

  • MS or PhD or equivalent experience in Computational Biology or Bioinformatics, or Structural Biology/Cheminformatics and/or Computer Science applied to Biology, or related fields.

  • A deep understanding of computational biology, AI/ML, and cheminformatics with the capability to steer high-impact projects

• Professional Experience:

  • Proven track record of success in a senior leadership role, preferably as CTO / COO / VP or similar position within an AI/data-driven drug discovery environment (techbio, biotech, pharma, CRO, life sciences software).

  • Strong strategic planning and business acumen, with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans.

  • Excellent leadership and management skills, with a track record of building and developing high-performing teams.

  • Demonstrated experience in operational excellence, process improvement, and change management.

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make data-driven decisions.

• Communication Skills:

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.

  • Experience in effectively communicating the strategic vision and technological roadmaps to internal teams, external stakeholders, and potential investors.

• Collaboration and Team Building:

  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including researchers, data scientists, business development professionals, and regulatory experts.

  • Experience in recruiting, mentoring, and leading high-performing technology teams

• Adaptability and Learning Agility:

  • Demonstrated ability to adapt to a dynamic and rapidly evolving industry, staying abreast of the latest advancements in AI, genomics, and pre-clinical development.

  • A commitment to continuous learning and a proactive approach to acquiring new skills and knowledge.

Interview Process Schedule:

1. Initial Video Call with Recruitment Partner:
   The first step will be a video call with our partner head hunter. This conversation will help us get to know your background and discuss the role.

2. Second Video Call with Chief of Staff & Head of People and Culture:
   A 60-minute video interview with our Chief of Staff and Head of People and Culture. During this call, you’ll dive deeper into your experience, your fit for the role, and your alignment with our company values.

3. On-Site Visit with Team Lead and Leadership:
   You’ll be invited to visit our office, where you’ll meet with the Team Lead and relevant department heads and our CEO and CSO. This is a great opportunity to see the workspace and engage directly with the team.

4. PI Test Discussion with Head of People and Culture:
   In this phase, you’ll have a follow-up discussion with our Head of People and Culture to review and interpret your Predictive Index (PI) test results, focusing on how they align with the role.

5. Final Step – 30-60-90 Day Case Study Presentation:
   As the last step, you will be asked to present a 30-60-90 day plan outlining your goals and strategy for the first three months in the CPO role. The plan should include:

   • First 30 days: Focus on onboarding, understanding company culture, learning your role, and meeting key stakeholders.

   • Next 60 days: Begin to contribute meaningfully, identify quick wins, and start implementing initial strategies.

   • Final 90 days: Solidify your impact, scale your initiatives, and set a foundation for long-term success.

   Deliverable:

   • Please prepare a presentation deck (5 slides max) outlining your 30-60-90 day plan.

   • You will have 45 minutes to present your plan to our co-founders: David, Lucia, and Julien.

This final presentation will give us insight into your approach to leadership and how you intend to contribute to WhiteLab Genomics.