Clinical-stage biotechnology companies often face the dual challenges of advancing their research within the constraints of limited funding and navigating the complex landscape of regulatory compliance. Compass recently partnered with a trailblazer in developing cellular therapies that was no exception. Despite the company’s innovative approach and potential to revolutionize treatments, budgetary constraints significantly hampered their ability to expand their team with the full-time, specialized talent required to overcome these hurdles. That’s where Compass comes in.
With their expertise in the life sciences industry, Compass was fully equipped to address the unique challenges faced by clinical-stage biotech companies like this one. Compass made strategic placements across key roles, helping the company navigate their immediate staffing needs and prepare for long-term success. Read on to learn how Compass’s tailored approach transformed the company’s trajectory.
Compass’s Tailored Hiring Strategies
Placement #1: Clinical Pharmacovigilance (Consultant/Contract)
The Clinical Pharmacovigilance Consultant role was critical for the company to meet FDA Form 1571 regulatory requirements and manage the outcomes of Severe Adverse Events (SAE), essential for patient safety and compliance.
Within two business days of receiving the role specifications, Compass identified four candidates who not only fit the technical and experiential requirements of the job but also were willing to work within the specified part-time, temporary framework.
Compass facilitated a series of interviews with various team members across the United States, ensuring a thorough vetting process. Their efficient coordination and understanding of the company’s needs led to a successful placement within a two-week timeframe. This rapid response allowed the company to meet critical regulatory requirements and ensure the safety and efficacy of their therapies.
Placement #2: Controller (Consultant/Contract)
The placement of a Controller Consultant with biopharma experience presented a different set of challenges. This individual would be responsible for filing 10-K and 10-Q forms, crucial for the company’s financial reporting and compliance.
Compass leveraged its extensive network within the biopharma sector, providing eight qualified candidates over a seven-day period. By coordinating interviews with the company’s C-Suite, Compass ensured the candidates not only had the necessary technical expertise but also fit the company’s culture and vision. The placement was completed in just one and a half weeks, helping the company keep their financial reporting timely and compliant.
Placement #3: Vice President of Research & Development (Full-Time)
The Vice President of Research & Development (VP of R&D) required a leader with significant achievements in cell therapy, capable of guiding the company’s R&D efforts to new heights.
Initially considered as a consulting position, Compass recognized the strategic importance of this role and advised a full-time hire would be more beneficial in the long run. This decision required a more extensive search and vetting process, including multiple rounds of interviews and onsite meetings.
Compass’s proactive engagement with both the candidate and the company ensured the interests of both parties were considered. A candidate was placed who both met the technical and leadership requirements of the role while expanding the role’s scope to provide visionary direction to the department.
Placement #4: VP of Manufacturing (Consultant/Contract)
The search for a Manufacturing Consultant required a candidate with a forward-thinking approach to new manufacturing technologies, crucial for maintaining the company’s competitive edge.
Compass quickly identified a candidate with the unique and highly specialized skill set needed for this role. However, during the interview process, it became evident that transitioning the position from a consulting role to a full-time hire would better serve the company’s long-term interests.
Similarly to the VP of R&D placement, Compass facilitated this shift in scope, underscoring the benefits of a full-time position to the candidate. Although the offer was eventually declined by the candidate, the company praised the quality of the candidate and invited Compass to continue the search.
Overall Partnership Outcome
This partnership is a testament to the power of strategic staffing solutions in the biotechnology sector. By providing a flexible and responsive approach to talent acquisition, Compass helped the company navigate budget constraints, meet critical regulatory requirements, and position themselves for future success. The company gained valuable talent and reinforced its commitment to developing life-saving cellular therapies.