Director, Accelerator

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is the largest nonprofit dedicated to combating poverty, disease, and inequity globally. Founded on the principle that everyone, regardless of their identity or circumstances, deserves the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives, the foundation emphasizes the importance of diversity among its employees to reflect the global populations it serves. The foundation offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage without premiums, generous paid time off, paid family leave, retirement contributions, regional holidays, and opportunities for employees to engage in various community initiatives. The organization is committed to fostering an environment that promotes both personal and professional growth for its employees.

Job Overview:
The Global Health division of the foundation leverages advancements in science and technology to save lives in low- and middle-income countries, focusing on diseases that are often overlooked or underfunded, such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis, and neglected tropical diseases. The Accelerator's mission is to innovate and prepare the ecosystem for groundbreaking platform technologies that can significantly impact global health. The Director of the Accelerator will lead a team that evaluates and invests in early-stage concepts, ensuring that the foundation's strategic bets are well-informed and aligned with its mission. This role requires a deep understanding of the scientific landscape and the ability to make high-stakes decisions regarding funding and resource allocation for innovative health solutions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director will be responsible for setting strategic priorities for the Accelerator, surveying the landscape of scientific and technological innovations to identify promising platforms for investment. This includes conceptualizing the Accelerator's strategy, overseeing portfolio-level decisions, and actively pursuing synergies across various foundation programs and external partnerships. The Director will lead the Activator unit, managing the sourcing, funding, and support of early-stage concepts, applying hands-on judgment to assess scientific and technical risks. Additionally, the Director will build and lead a high-performing team, fostering a culture of inclusion and collaboration while ensuring accountability for the team's progress towards the foundation's diversity, equity, and inclusion goals. The role also involves cultivating relationships with external stakeholders in the biotech and venture capital sectors to facilitate the transition of technologies from proof-of-concept to market-ready products.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an M.D., Ph.D., or equivalent experience in a relevant life sciences or biomedical field. A proven track record as a serial entrepreneur or venture builder is essential, with experience founding or leading multiple biotech or health-technology companies. Candidates should have direct experience in evaluating early-stage science and technology, demonstrating comfort in making high-stakes decisions under uncertainty. Technical fluency in breakthrough platform areas relevant to global health is required, along with experience in building and leading multidisciplinary teams. Strong judgment and communication skills are necessary to advocate for bold initiatives to senior audiences.

Educational Background:
The ideal candidate will have an advanced degree, such as an M.D. or Ph.D., in a relevant life sciences or biomedical discipline. This educational background should be complemented by substantial practical experience in the field, particularly in roles that involve innovation and technology development.

Experience:
Candidates should have extensive experience in the biotech or health-technology sectors, particularly in roles that involve founding, co-founding, or leading organizations through the early stages of development. Experience in evaluating scientific and technological innovations as an investor or technical diligence lead is crucial, as is the ability to build and lead high-performing teams in a multidisciplinary environment.

Languages:
While specific language requirements are not mentioned, proficiency in English is mandatory given the global nature of the role and the need for effective communication with diverse stakeholders. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Seattle, Washington, and offers a competitive salary range of $423,200 to $677,000 USD, with higher ranges for specific locations such as Seattle and Washington D.C. The foundation emphasizes a balance between competitive pay and its mission-driven focus. New hires typically start within the range minimum to midpoint, depending on their skills and experience. The hiring process includes a background check, and the organization is committed to providing accommodations for candidates with disabilities. The foundation values diversity, equity, and inclusion in its hiring practices and strives to create a workplace that reflects these principles.