Senior Director/ VP Operations

Job Description

Xaira Therapeutics, an innovative biotech startup focused on leveraging AI to transform drug discovery and development, is seeking a Senior Director/VP of Operations. This role reports to the COO and involves strategic and operational leadership, driving efficiency, performance measurement, and scalable growth.

The Senior Director/VP of Operations will lead the Business Operations team, collaborating with leadership to implement robust processes and systems for data-driven decision-making and sustainable growth. This person will balance high-level strategy with hands-on execution and apply a structured approach to solving complex operational challenges.

Responsibilities include:

• Fostering, mentoring, developing, and empowering a high-performing Business Operations and Lab team.
• Driving key governance processes, including Annual Operating Plan development, Quarterly Business Reviews, and Project Review and Prioritization.
• Driving strategic portfolio management by assessing, prioritizing, and optimizing projects.
• Establishing and maintaining an operating cadence to facilitate planning, execution, and monitoring of outcomes.
• Leading scalability and efficiency initiatives across operations.
• Defining and tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor company-wide performance across cost efficiency.
• Leading the implementation and optimization of enterprise business systems.
• Collaborating with business partners including Finance, HR, and IT.
• Managing Lab Operations across Bay Area and Seattle sites.
• Building and maintaining relationships with strategic partners and vendors.

Requirements include:

• 10+ years of experience in business operations and lab management, including scaling operations in high-growth environments.
• Bachelor’s degree required; MBA or advanced degree preferred.
• Expertise in process optimization, cost management, and operational efficiency.
• Experience defining and tracking KPIs to drive performance improvement.
• Exceptional analytical skills with the ability to transform complex data into actionable insights.
• Exceptional leadership skills with experience building and mentoring high-performing teams.
• Proven ability to foster cross-functional collaboration and alignment across departments.

Xaira Therapeutics offers:

• A competitive compensation and benefits package including base salary, bonus, and equity.
• An open, flexible, and friendly work environment.
• A platform to develop their long-term careers.