Series D Disruptive Medical Device Startup

the role

Medical Director

THE CHALLENGE

No Medical Director, No Momentum: Bridging a Critical Leadership Gap in Breast Imaging Commercialization

Our client faced a major roadblock in their commercialization journey: they had no Medical Director to lead the charge. With a groundbreaking breast imaging technology ready to disrupt the market, the absence of a clinical leader was stalling progress at a pivotal moment.

They needed a strategic medical partner—someone capable of building credibility with KOLs, shaping a robust publishing strategy, and driving clinical buy-in across the industry. But this wasn’t just any hire.

The role demanded a recognized luminary in breast imaging, with both the vision to influence and the operational chops to execute. Finding someone with that rare mix of clinical stature, strategic insight, and commercial acumen made this a high-risk, high-impact search.

OUR SOLUTION

Knowing that this individual would need to travel significantly to reference sites and to the headquarters location, our team thoroughly canvassed the market for candidates located in the Eastern Time zone. Combing through research networks, current and past relevant conferences, LinkedIn and other professional networks, our team identified and headhunted 418 MDs. We targeted clinical luminaries interested in transitioning into industry to make a greater impact. After a careful multi-stage vetting process, 9 candidates were ultimately presented for Shortlist.

Our transparent search process allowed our client to see exactly who we were speaking with on any given week, opening doors to valuable networking conversations adjacent to the search. Additionally, our weekly meetings allowed our client to iterate on their original must have list as they met candidates and were advised of real-time market insights. This partnership allowed our team to quickly hone in on a bullseye candidate profile and headhunt these select few individuals, resulting in a business-changing hire.

The Result

Our client was thrilled to extend an offer to a candidate with former industry leadership experience alongside a 20+ year successful career as a breast radiologist. With advanced knowledge of next generation technology related to breast health, this hire is perfectly positioned to act as a clinical luminary, driving adoption and positive patient outcomes.

“Your team wonderfully fills a hole in the market. Fast enough to work with a startup of our size, yet all of the data, research, polish and professionalism of a high-priced international executive search firm.”

— CEO, Medtech Startup