How does RSA’s approach differ from other executive search firms?

Most firms rely heavily on broad networks and generic recruitment practices. RSA has operated exclusively within the Life Sciences sector since 1981 so our networks are unparalleled. Our consultants are industry veterans who understand the technical nuances of your pipeline, allowing them to engage candidates peer-to-peer and validate their specific life science competencies.

What exactly is the “Proof of Candidate” methodology?

It is our proprietary due diligence framework. We do not present candidates based on “gut-feel” or reputation alone. Every shortlist is a comparative, data driven dossier that checks and validates the candidates alignment, execution history, and cultural fit, ensuring your Board can make an evidence-based hiring decision.

What is a typical timeline for a C-Suite or Board-level placement?

While complex searches require rigorous vetting, our global infrastructure allows us to move with urgency. Typically, the longlisting Strategic Blueprinting phase is completed within 2 weeks, with a qualified shortlist presented within 4 to 8 weeks. Final hire decisions are generally secured within 21 days of shortlisting.

Do you handle international searches?

Yes. Roughly 1/3 of our work involves a cross border/continent move. We operate across all major global life science hubs, including London, Boston, The Bay Area, Munich, Berlin, Basel, Shanghai and Singapore. Our model combines local and market intelligence with a truly borderless talent network, enabling us to source the best global talent regardless of geography.

Do you provide support for interim or fractional leadership needs?

Absolutely. Through RSA Interims we provide agile leadership solutions for critical inflection points. Whether you need a transition CEO, a turnaround CFO, or specific leadership to bridge the gap until a permanent appointment is made, we deploy proven operators rapidly to maintain your business velocity

Interim Clinical Operations Leader - TargImmune

Case Studies

Interim / Fractional

TargImmune

Interim / Fractional

Interim Clinical Operations Leader

Placing an Interim Clinical Operations Leader to coordinate global cross-functional teams and drive early-phase clinical trials for TargImmune’s non-viral vector immuno-oncology platform.

30 Sept 2024

The Client

TargImmune is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing targeted immunotherapies for the treatment of solid tumours. The company focuses on improving the delivery of immune-modulating agents directly to the tumour microenvironment through proprietary targeting technologies. By enhancing localisation and reducing systemic exposure, TargImmune aims to increase therapeutic efficacy while minimising side effects, advancing novel immune-oncology approaches for patients with high unmet medical need. TargImmune has a unique dsRNA non-viral vector delivery platform which, by mimicking a virus, harnesses the body's powerful antiviral defences to address cancer tumours including distant metastases.

The Situation

TargImmune required an Interim Clinical Operations Leader to provide senior operational leadership across its clinical development activities. The role demanded strong experience in early-phase clinical trials, particularly Phase 1–2 studies in immune-oncology solid tumours, as well as the ability to operate hands-on within a small biotech environment. The company needed immediate support to coordinate cross-functional teams across multiple geographies, manage study start-up and execution, and ensure timelines, quality and regulatory compliance were maintained. An interim solution was selected to deliver accountability, structure and operational continuity during a critical phase of clinical execution with limited internal resources.

The Outcome

We placed an Interim Clinical Operations Leader for fourteen months who assumed full accountability for the execution of the clinical operations strategy. The interim coordinated cross-functional teams, oversaw study start-up activities, site selection and monitoring plans, and maintained close control of timelines, budgets and resourcing. They provided leadership throughout project implementation, proactively identified operational risks, and supported contingency planning to safeguard delivery.

The interim also ensured compliance with ICH-GCP and regulatory requirements, participated in audits and inspections, and contributed to process improvements within the programme. Working in a highly hands-on manner, they integrated quickly with project leadership and external partners, stabilising clinical operations and supporting successful study progression through to defined project milestones.

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