Program Director

Title: Program Director – Scientific Program HubThe following information aims to provide potential candidates with a better understanding of the requirements for this role.Start2 Group is seeking a dynamic and organized Program Director to lead the execution of a large life sciences prize challenge program. This role is ideal for someone who combines program management expertise with a strong scientific understanding of drug discovery and early development, and a passion for entrepreneurship and biotech innovation. The ideal candidate is an outgoing relationship builder who excels at coordinating diverse stakeholders including startups, investors, scientists, and industry partners, while ensuring smooth, on-time, and on-budget program delivery. The Program Director will oversee all aspects of the program, working closely with internal teams, a large external partner, and development-stage biotechs led by entrepreneurs and/or academic founders.Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts (office-based; open to other locations)Job Function: Full-timeStart: ImmediatelyCompensation: $150,000Key ResponsibilitiesProgram Support & Execution:Lead the planning, execution, and overall management of the prize challenge program, serving as the main point of contact to coordinate all program activities.Attend development meetings to help ensure biotech/therapeutic projects remain on track.Grow and manage a global mentor pool of biotech experts, particularly in the antivirals space.Lead global sourcing efforts to publicize the program and attract high-quality applicants.Drive teaming efforts to connect innovators and startups, fostering collaborations to de-risk antiviral (or related) development.Mentorship & Advisory Support:Oversee the applicant evaluation process, including assessment, selection, and recommendations for funding awards.Provide direct mentorship to participating startups and guide them toward program success.Connect startups with mentors, advisors, and service providers with relevant development expertise.Community Engagement & Relationship Management:Represent Start2 Group within the global biotech and early-stage therapeutic startup ecosystem, cultivating relationships with startups, innovators, academics, investors, mentors, corporate partners, and accelerators.Attend and participate in conferences, networking events, and roundtables to strengthen ties between international researchers, startups, and the Boston-area ecosystem.Program Monitoring & Reporting:Lead program reporting and communications with the client and key stakeholders, ensuring timely, accurate updates on performance metrics and progress.Collaborate with the Chief Business Officer (CBO) and internal teams to continuously improve program offerings and enhance participant outcomes.What You’ll Bring to the RoleStartup Program Management:Demonstrated ability to lead end-to-end program execution within life sciences, biotechnology, or drug development environments.Proven success managing multi-stakeholder initiatives that combine scientific, operational, and business components. Experience supporting early-stage therapeutic or biotech ventures, such as accelerators, incubators, or venture-backed startups.Strong understanding of the drug discovery process and early development process, particularly in small molecule, biologics, or antiviral research.Skilled in evaluating early-stage biotech projects, conducting due diligence, and assessing the potential of startups.Prior experience coordinating with CROs, industry partners, or government funders preferred. Stakeholder Management & Networking:Proven experience building ecosystems across startups, academia, national labs, investors, mentors, and corporate partners.Ability to create visibility and excitement around programs, including experience organizing startup-related events and building one-on-one relationships in biotech.Operational & Financial Skills:Strong project management capabilities: milestone tracking, risk mitigation, reporting and budget oversight.Excellent communication, relationship-building, and negotiation skills.Proficient in using project management systems and methodologies to plan, track, and deliver complex initiatives.The Ideal Candidate7+ years of experience in program management within life sciences, biotechnology, or drug development.Strong understanding of drug discovery and early-stage therapeutic development.A natural connector and ecosystem builder who thrives on engaging founders, investors, and industry experts in biotech/therapeutics with strong connections in the antiviral space or related therapeutic areas.Demonstrated ability to manage complex programs, balance competing priorities, and deliver results in fast-paced environments. Experience managing large clients or stakeholders and collaborating across internal and external teams.Background working with or leading entrepreneurial projects or startups.Passion for working with startups and helping de-risk assets and platforms.Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as needed.Professional working proficiency in English.What We OfferAn exciting international work environment with many opportunities to learn and grow.An open-minded and motivated team that excels at completing tasks together, relying on excellent performance, teamwork, and humor.Opportunity to work independently with plenty of creative freedom, openness, and space for new ideas, impulses, and methods.A small team where everyone has the opportunity to lead projects and a voice to bring new ideas to the table.A role that creates real impact within the global startup and innovation community.Competitive benefits, including 100% employer-paid healthcare and 401k options.How to ApplyPlease submit your application via email to Katrina Marsters at the address below by November 30, 2025. Along with your resume, please include a one-page cover letter that tells us about yourself, explains why you want to work at Start2 Group, and highlights why you are a good fit for this position.ContactKatrina MarstersOperations Manager, Start2 Group, Inc. As part of the application process, candidates will be required to complete a Predictive Index behavioral assessment to assess cultural fit and personality traits. This assessment takes approximately 6 minutes to complete and will help us understand how well your skills and personality align with the requirements of the role and our company culture. The link to the assessment is provided below: Start2 GroupStart2 Group is a global powerhouse taking your startup journey to the next level.As a premier international innovation platform, we serve as the ultimate destination for growth-oriented startups, corporations, and governments to shape and scale purpose-driven ventures.Founded in 2008, Start2 Group has consistently played a pivotal role in the success stories of 6,000 startups, guiding them seamlessly from initial fundraising to global expansion. Our influence spans key markets across Europe, the America, Asia, and the Middle East, shaping the future of innovation on a global scale.Join us in fostering purpose-driven innovation across borders.Equal Employment Opportunity PolicyStart2 Group provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. xhmxlyz This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.