Jens Kurth, Ph.D.
Global Biotech and Pharma Executive | Specialist in Translating Innovation to Market Success
Jens Kurth, Ph.D.
Global Biotech and Pharma Executive | Specialist in Translating Innovation to Market Success
Bridging science and business, I turn groundbreaking research into market success stories. As a biotech entrepreneur and pharma executive, I empower companies and investors to unlock the full potential of life science innovation
About
Global Biotech and Pharma Executive | Specialist in Translating Innovation to Market Success
With over 26 years of international leadership experience in the biotech and pharmaceutical industry, I specialize in bridging cutting-edge research and market-ready products.
As a co-founder, CEO, and senior executive in multiple biotech startups and major pharma organizations, I have led translational programs from early research through clinical development to market entry — with a strong focus on innovative therapies such as biologics, cell and gene therapies.
My expertise includes strategic development planning, regulatory navigation (FDA/EMA/PMDA/ others), business development, venture fundraising, and operational leadership. I have successfully built companies, secured major funding rounds (>EUR 110 million), executed licensing deals with global players, and steered international teams in dynamic and high-stake environments.
Specialized Focus - Not a Generalist
- Positioned as an expert in translating early-stage gene/cell therapy and oncology assets into IND-ready development programs
- In depth experience in regulatory planning, KOL engagement, and data package definition for first-in-human studies
Dual Experience: Startup Agility + Big Pharma Systems
- Built companies from scratch (e.g., Vivet, Cimeio, Exosla) and led global biologics programs at Novartis
- This rare combination allows for scalable solutions tailored to both early biotech and structured pharma environments
Results with Real Impact
- Negotiated and executed licensing deals worth up to USD 650M (Pfizer option deal)
- Raised over EUR100M in combined VC funding.
- IND and BLA submissions across EMA, FDA, Health Canada, and PMDA
Productized Consulting Services
- VC Readiness Package: Pitch deck + dev plan audit, investor positioning
- IND Blueprint: Preclinical & regulatory strategy, gap analysis, planning
- Interim CDO/CEO-as-a-Service: Fractional leadership for strategic inflection points
Network-Driven Execution
- Access to global KOLs, regulatory consultants, CROs, CMOs, and VC networks
- My extensive network and global connections expedites your scuccess
Sound Leadership & Trust
- Reputation for integrity, clarity, and strategic foresight with both investors and teams
- Described by peers as visionary, structured, and courageous in navigating uncertainty
How I can help
Startups & Founders
- Business & development strategy
- Fundraising preparation & investor messaging
- Indication assessments and selection
- Positioning, generating of USP
- Budgeting
- KOL and advisory board setup
- Sparring & strategic mentoring
- Pitch-deck / business plan mentoring, feedback
- Leadership alignment; scientific founders, executives and investors
VCs & Investors
- Scientific & clinical due diligence
- Technology evaluation
- Pipeline evaluation
- Pre- and clinical development strategies
- Competitive landscape
- Board or SAB representation
- Interim CEO/CDO-as-a-service: fractional leadership during early rounds
Biotech & Pharma Companies
- Translational development consulting
- Global regulatory & CMC strategy
- Clinical portfolio planning
- Project Management
- Strategic partnering & licensing support
My Approach
I combine scientific excellence, strategic business thinking, and operational pragmatism. My leadership style is defined by clear communication, structured problem-solving, and a collaborative spirit — essential traits for navigating the complex, dynamic environments of global health innovation. Trustworthy, transparent, reliable and thorough. I have in depth, hands-on global experience with over 22 years working and living abroad in multiple countries.
My Goal
Maximizing the value and market impact of breakthrough innovations in life sciences
Track Record
Selected Achievements
- Co-founder and C-level executive in multiple biotech companies (Exosla Therapeutics, Cimeio Therapeutics, Vivet Therapeutics, among others)
- Raised over EUR 110 million in venture funding
- Led licensing deals with big pharma up to USD 1.3 billion
- Designed and executed development strategies for biologics, cell, and gene therapies
- Successful regulatory interactions and submissions (INDs, scientific advice meetings with EMA/FDA/PMDA others)
Contact
Interested in collaborating or exploring how I can support your innovation journey?