Chair

Medicines Discovery Catapult

Alderley Park, with national travel

  • Location Alderley Park, with national travel
  • Sector Central Government
  • Client Medicines Discovery Catapult
  • Job Type Permanent
  • Salary/Remuneration Competitive (3-5 days a month)
  • Reference GSe119311
  • Closing Date 5pm Monday 30 March 2026

Medicines Discovery Catapult (MDC) is a national, not‑for‑profit organisation dedicated to reshaping drug discovery for patient benefit. Operating at the forefront of UK life sciences, MDC collaborates with SMEs, academics, large pharma, charities and technology innovators to accelerate the development of new medicines. Since launch, MDC has supported hundreds of organisations, unlocked significant R&D investment and built a unique position within the UK’s innovation ecosystem by validating new approaches, de‑risking discovery and driving improved productivity across the sector.

We are now seeking an exceptional Chair to lead the MDC Board. This role provides strategic leadership, ensuring high‑quality governance and supporting the Executive in delivering MDC’s mission and long‑term strategy. As Chair, you will guide the organisation’s scientific and commercial direction, steward its financial sustainability, and strengthen relationships across government, industry, academia and the wider research landscape. Acting as an ambassador for MDC, you will play a central role in shaping national programmes, influencing policy and ensuring MDC continues to enable innovators and promote UK leadership in medicines R&D.

We are looking for an influential, science‑literate leader with experience chairing boards in complex, multi‑stakeholder environments. You will bring strong policy influence, credibility across research and industry, and an ability to navigate translational science and commercial pathways with confidence. Highly skilled in governance, partnership‑building and strategic judgement, you will be collaborative, diplomatic and motivated by MDC’s national purpose. With deep networks and a track record of guiding organisations through complex decisions, you will help ensure MDC continues to deliver meaningful impact for patients, industry and the UK economy.

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