VP, Head of Operations

Location: South San Francisco
Posted on: June 23, 2025

Job Description:

About SonoThera: SonoThera is a venture capital-backed early-stage biopharmaceutical company developing ultra-sound-guided non-viral targeted gene therapies to treat multiple diseases of high unmet need. SonoThera uses a collaborative, interdisciplinary, and forward-thinking approach to solving many of the current challenges facing genetic medicine discovery and drug development. SonoThera is headquartered in South San Francisco, CA. Job Summary: Reporting to the CEO, the VP, Head of Operations provides strategic and operational leadership to achieve the company's overall business objectives, including capacity planning, resource allocation, and process optimization. Areas of responsibility include Facilities, IT, Lab Operations, and Procurement. The successful candidate will be a self-motivated, hands-on individual who can partner effectively with high-caliber teams on the day-to-day responsibilities utilizing strong communication, collaboration, technical expertise, attention to detail, and play a pivotal role in ensuring regulatory compliance, risk management, and business continuity. This is an on-site position. We’re looking for someone based in the San Francisco Bay Area who is able to work in person at our office in South San Francisco at least 4 days per week. What you will accomplish: Head up the day-to-day operation of SonoThera‘s service operations. Oversee lab operations to ensure optimal functionality, regulatory compliance, and alignment with R&D and manufacturing needs. Serves as site leader for laboratory Direct the organization and maintenance of laboratory infrastructure, equipment, and inventory to support scientific research and product development. Forecast and develop strategic plans for capacity planning Defines and controls budget and spending for services and products, ensuring fiscal responsibility and alignment with strategic financial goals. Responsible for facilities management, including lease negotiations, property management, space optimization, and operational readiness for compliance with industry standards (e.g., GMP, FDA, EMA). Lead IT infrastructure planning and implementation, ensuring cybersecurity, technological innovation, and system reliability to support business operations. Oversee IT systems for lab operations, data management, and collaboration tools to enhance efficiency. Qualifications BS Degree, preferably in an engineering discipline. MS or MBA desirable 15 years of operations experience in the life sciences industry with a minimum of 7 years leadership experience Experience working at fast-paced early-stage start-up organization preferred Technical Requirements and Skills: Proficient knowledge and experience in the following: Demonstrated startup experience or leading organizations through growth and organizational change Experience building and developing high performing teams and ability to create strong partnerships, internally and externally Experience as a change agent in scaling a business Benefits We offer our employees a comprehensive benefits package. At SonoThera, we'll give you the tools to feel healthy, happy and secure. Access to a 24-hour onsite gym Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision Equity and ownership in a fast-growing company Commuting stipend based on your geographical location 401(k) Match: SonoThera offers a company match All full-time employees are eligible for our flexible time off policy Equal Opportunity for Diversity & Inclusion SonoThera provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Compensation: The salary range for this position is $260,000 to $325,000 USD annually. This salary range is an estimate, and the actual salary may vary based on various factors, including, without limitation, individual education, experience, tenure, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data, including potential adjustments for geographic location.

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