Director, Strategic Initiatives

The Role We are looking for someone who can step in as a direct extension of the CEO — independently owning and executing the external strategic work that keeps Orum visible, connected, and positioned for its next phase of growth. This is not a support role. This is a build role. Key Responsibilities Partner with the CEO to define, scope, and execute high-priority strategic initiatives then run them independently Translate strategic direction into actionable plans with clear milestones, owners, and measurable outcomes Build new organizational capabilities where no existing function currently owns them Serve as the day-to-day owner so the CEO is informed Develop and manage strategic relationships across Korean and global biotech — government, industry associations, KOLs, early stage VCs, and pharma partners Represent Orum at industry/investor conferences, Korea biotech forums, and global partnering meetings Strengthen Orum's visibility and positioning within the Korean and global biotech community Leverage your existing network to open doors and create opportunities Orum doesn't yet have access to Establish a sustainable Korea market intelligence process covering scientific, clinical, commercial, and market dynamics to support opportunistic new strategic initiatives Deliver concise, executive-level market intelligence outputs that feed directly into strategic planning positioning Build repeatable tools and processes so the capability outlasts the build phase Required Qualifications PhD or equivalent in life sciences; hands-on drug development experience (IND, clinical, or preclinical) strongly preferred Demonstrated track record of building ecosystems, partnerships, or capabilities from scratch — not just maintaining existing operations Deep network in Korean biotech, academia, and/or global VC/pharma BD circles Comfortable operating as an individual contributor in an ambiguous, resource-constrained environment — no team, no institutional brand behind you Proven ability to translate scientific and strategic concepts for diverse stakeholders: investors, pharma partners, government, academia Strong project management discipline — can own complex initiatives end-to-end without close supervision Bilingual Korean/English required; China connectivity a plus Seoul or Daejeon-based; hybrid model; business travel as needed — no restrictions for genuine business needs What We're Looking For A builder — energized by creating something from zero; loses interest when things are on autopilot, and that's exactly what this role needs Strategic — connects external signals to internal priorities; sees around corners and brings the CEO the right information at the right time Networked — has existing relationships across K-biotech, global pharma, and VC that can be activated on day one Independent — takes ownership of initiatives and drives them to completion without close supervision; comfortable with ambiguity and a flat structure A communicator — bilingual, cross-cultural, and able to represent Orum credibly to investors, government, academia, and industry partners alike Unable to work with third-party candidates or agencies. Candidates must be able to pass a background investigation. Orum Therapeutics is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).