Senior Director, Genetic Therapy Programs

The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is a leading healthcare nonprofit organization like no other. For decades, we have been taking major steps and pioneering new ways to find a cure for cystic fibrosis.We are the global leader in the search for a cure for cystic fibrosis and nearly every CF drug and therapy available today was made possible because of CF Foundation support. We did this not only for the more than 30,000 people living in the U.S. with CF - and the estimated 70,000 people worldwide - but for the families who have worked tirelessly to find a cure for their loved ones living with CF.These achievements have required dedication and unwavering commitment from a talented team of CF Foundation employees. We have created an environment that attracts -- and retains -- a diverse group of talented people who are passionate about changing the face of this disease. Join us and you will partner with colleagues of varying backgrounds and expertise, all united in our mission.Job DescriptionThe Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CF Foundation) and its employees embrace their commitment to its core values. These core values are the pillars on which the CF Foundation stand and will continue to sustain us as we move forward.* Keep sight of what really matters: Our decisions are based on what is best for people with cystic fibrosis and their families.* Aspire for excellence in all we do: We take pride in our work. We are committed to continuous learning and improvement.* Stronger together: We collaborate and work together so that we can learn more and achieve more.* Innovate with courage: We embrace challenges. We reach beyond boundaries in pursuit of our vision.* Care about our people: We deeply care about each other and all who support our shared mission. We listen with respect. We support one another.We are a nonprofit, donor-supported organization that has raised and invested billions of dollars to help develop cystic fibrosis therapies that have changed the lives of people with this disease. Nearly every CF medicine available today was made possible because of Foundation support.POSITION SUMMARY:The Senior Director, Genetic Therapy Programs is a critical role focused on carrying out the mission of the Foundation to facilitate discovery and development of new genetic-based therapies that will benefit all people with CF, irrespective of their causative CFTR mutation. This individual will work as part of an integrated team of scientists, business development directors, and project management staff to identify, evaluate, and develop promising new programs and guide established relationships with pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies focused on genetic technologies. This position will also assist companies in their interface with genetic technology academic partners. The overall goal of the position is helping the Foundation utilize its considerable financial and institutional resources to advance genetic therapies in CF and ultimately cure CF. The role will include seeking out and evaluating new opportunities, leading exploratory discussions, evaluating scientific merit, helping guide the development and conduct of therapeutic programs, and participating in contract negotiations to secure mutually beneficial agreements that deliver opportunities for CF-relevant programs related to genetic therapies. The successful candidate will have strong scientific knowledge and a track record in drug development in areas related to nucleic acid delivery, gene editing technologies, and/or stem cell therapies with a particular desire for gene editing expertise. Knowledge of CF pathophysiology is a plus but not required. This individual is expected to contribute in-depth knowledge in the field of genetic therapy development and exhibit superior analytical, strategic and communication skills. Well organized, detail oriented, with a sense of urgency, this individual will be a team player who is comfortable exerting leadership through consensus building and identification of innovative solutions.ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:* Work with scientific, medical, and business development/investment teams to seek out, identify, critically evaluate, provide guidance, and cultivate partnerships with for-profit and academic entities, with the goal of developing improved genetic-based therapies for CF.* Assess and prioritize Program opportunities including risk/benefit for CF population, technology potential, financial resources, scientific merit, and management structure.* Coordinate review for therapeutic development opportunities.* Survey advancements in basic/clinical research, understand their applicability to cystic fibrosis and identify and shepherd opportunities for assisting CF research and therapeutic development.* Monitor and facilitate the advancement of currently funded CF programs.* Provide regular assessments and recommendations to senior management and Board members regarding potential partnership opportunities.* With input from the scientific, investment, and legal teams, participate in the end-to-end process of partnership development by aligning needs, coordinating requirements, building internal consensus, structuring, and negotiating contracts, and leading advisory teams.* Together with Grants and Contracts team, ensure payment terms are met, monitor predicted and actual expenses, and assist in budget projections.* Engage as needed with the Medical Group Compliance officer to ensure that contract terms meet internal and external compliance standards.* With Project Management staff, track project status, archive and summarize correspondence, and monitor and update progress.* Assist in preparing annual reports, progress reports, and budget projections, as needed.* As a scientific leader at the Foundation, participate in scientific workshops, Town Halls, and other scientific and community outreach activities.KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:* Advanced degree (M.D., Ph.D.) with training in molecular genetics, cell biology, or other chemistry or life sciences discipline and a minimum of 10 years'' experienced required.* Strong knowledge with experience in preclinical/clinical drug discovery and development, particularly in areas related to genetic-based therapies.* Strong aptitude for investigating and identifying new scientific approaches and emerging technologies relevant to therapeutic development.* Demonstrated experience in partnership building and business development.* Strong problem-solving, strategic, and analytical skills.* Ability to manage multiple projects and tasks and meet stated deadlines.* Creative thinker, resourceful, team player, self-starter.* Excellent networking and interpersonal skills.* Highest degree of integrity and honesty.* Excellent written and verbal communication skills.* Demonstrated high competency for organizational skills and attention to detail.* Ability to collaborate and be creative with a professional and positive approach.REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS:* Reports to the Executive Vice President, Chief Scientific Officer. No direct reports.The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of essential functions, responsibilities or requirements.Total Rewards: The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is committed to offering competitive compensation (base pay and incentive), benefits, and professional development opportunities that maximize our ability to recruit, retain, reward, and motivate a highly-qualified and diverse workforce. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision coverage; generous time-off and leave policies; a holistic well-being program; health savings and flexible spending accounts; employer-provided life and disability insurance; retirement savings benefits; and a variety of work-life benefits to support employees and their family members.The CF Foundation is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to being an employer of choice, not just a good place to work, but a great and inclusive place to work. We strive to recruit and maintain a diverse workforce. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, physical or mental disability, color, religious creed, ancestry, national origin, religion, age, sex, marital status, genetic information or testing, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation or status as a Vietnam-era or special disabled veteran or any characteristic protected by law.Reasonable Accommodation: The CF Foundation is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or would like to request an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at [Click Here to Email Your Resumé].

Created: 2026-04-04