Development Project Manager, Oncology (Senior Manager/Associate Director)

 

COMPANY

Volastra Therapeutics, Inc. is a clinical-stage oncology biotech company based in New York City, pioneering novel approaches to treating cancer by targeting chromosomal instability (CIN), a unique vulnerability in cancer. Since its founding in 2019, Volastra has grown to support ongoing discovery efforts and a growing clinical organization.

Our lead pipeline programs focus on two distinct inhibitors of KIF18A, a novel therapeutic target. VLS-1488, internally discovered, entered clinical trials in Q4 2023 for the treatment of advanced cancers. Sovilnesib, in-licensed from Amgen in 2023, re-entered the clinic in Q2 2024. Both assets have been granted Fast-Track Designation by the FDA.

Volastra is backed by top US and European venture firms such as Arch, Polaris, Vida, Droia, Catalio, and B Capital, alongside strategic investment from Eli Lilly. In addition to venture funding, Volastra has established partnerships with oncology leaders. Our senior leadership team is highly experienced, supported by a world-class advisory board.

We are headquartered in West Harlem, New York City, within easy reach of Columbia, Cornell, Memorial Sloan Kettering, and surrounding areas. Please visit www.volastratx.com for more information.

 

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Development Project Manager, Oncology (Senior Manager/Associate Director) will report to the Chief Medical Officer and support the execution of clinical and cross-functional development activities across Volastra’s oncology programs. This role will work in close partnership with functional leads to manage key project deliverables, drive timelines, facilitate internal team coordination, and support program-level planning and execution. 

This is an execution-oriented role ideal for a candidate with strong project coordination skills and a working knowledge of oncology drug development. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, collaborative, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with cross-functional stakeholders. In addition to core responsibilities, this individual will also have opportunities to contribute to broader program strategy and process improvement initiatives. 

This role is based in NYC and requires 50% in-office time. 

 

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Partner with the Chief Medical Officer and cross-functional leaders to support coordinated planning and execution of clinical-stage oncology programs, including VLS-1488 and Sovilnesib. 
• Develop and maintain detailed project plans, including timelines, deliverables, and dependencies; proactively identify and track critical path activities to ensure program goals are met. 
• Drive meeting operations for cross-functional working groups and governance forums, including agenda development, facilitation, documentation of decisions and action items, and timely follow-up. 
• Monitor project progress against objectives and timelines, escalate risks or delays as appropriate, and support implementation of mitigation strategies. 
• Track and coordinate key milestones, timelines, and deliverables across R&D functions 
• Support the preparation of internal and external presentations, including materials for governance and leadership meetings. 
• Contribute to continuous improvement of project workflows, communication tools, and documentation practices 

 

QUALIFICATIONS

• 3+ years of experience in a drug development role in a pharmaceutical or clinical-stage biotech company. 
• 2+ years of project management experience in oncology, including direct support of clinical-stage programs. 
• Strong working knowledge of the drug development lifecycle, particularly early development from IND through Phase 1/2 studies. 
• Demonstrated ability to manage timelines, milestones, and deliverables across functions. 
• Strong organizational and communication skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously and build team alignment in fast paced programs. 
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to synthesize complex information and drive clarity across diverse stakeholders. 
• Adaptability to uncertainty or change 
•  

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with small molecule development programs
• Advance degree in life sciences or related technical field
• Prior exposure to research or clinical development roles beyond project management. 

 

SALARY RANGE

Approximately $130,000- $180,000 which may vary depending on qualifications, experience, and ultimate leveling.