Co-Founding CEO (Metabolic & Inflammation Therapies)

Co-Founding CEO (Metabolic & Inflammation Therapies)

Location: Remote
Commitment: Part-time to start, with greater time commitment expected as the company scales
Compensation: Equity only, transitioning to salary after fundraising
Start Date: ASAP preferred, Q4 2026 at the latest
Seniority: Co-founder / Leadership

About the Company

This startup is developing a new kind of small molecule to treat diabetic kidney disease (DKD) and other metabolic diseases.

Their approach is different from existing treatments: instead of managing symptoms (like blood sugar or blood pressure), their drug targets the root cause: a molecular signal inside cells that triggers inflammation and scarring in the kidneys.

Their lead drug, INT-101, is first-in-class and acts by blocking a specific interaction between two proteins (RAGE and DIAPH1). Blocking this interaction mitigates the downstream effects that lead to kidney inflammation and fibrosis. As a result, it has the potential to restore kidney function, not just slow the damage. No other current therapies have this disease-modifying effect.

Built on Professor Ann Marie Schmidt's pioneering RAGE biology research at NYU, the platform shows strong preclinical proof-of-concept in diabetic kidney disease and potential across multiple indications. With four granted U.S. patents, it represents a credible, first-in-class therapeutic approach moving toward clinical development.

 

Purpose of the Role

The CEO will lead all aspects of the venture's growth, from setting strategy to advancing its first programs into clinical trials.

This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who combines scientific understanding with strong business and fundraising skills. The CEO will decide the indication strategy, secure new funding, build and lead the team, and represent the company to investors, partners, and the broader biotech community.

This is a unique opportunity to shape a first-in-class biotech from the ground up, driving a platform with potential impact across multiple chronic diseases.

Key Responsibilities

• Define and execute the company's strategy, aligning science, operations, and business goals.
• Lead fundraising (seed, Series A), leveraging networks and partnerships to secure capital and strategic collaborations.
• Choose and prioritize indication strategy (such as DKD, obesity, atherosclerosis, or MASH) based on opportunity, patient need, and risk.
• Oversee the transition from preclinical to IND submission and clinical development.
• Build and manage a team as the company progresses.
• Collaborate closely with Professor Ann Marie Schmidt and advisors to integrate scientific excellence with commercial strategy.
• Represent the venture in front of investors, partners, and the scientific community.

What We're Looking For

• Proven biotech or life sciences leader with early-stage venture experience.
• Successful fundraising track record.
• Strong scientific and strategic understanding of metabolic diseases (e.g., diabetes, kidney disease, obesity) or related areas.
• Experience guiding programs through preclinical and regulatory development toward the clinic.
• Ability to turn complex science into a clear, fundable business plan.
• Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills with investors, advisors, and diverse stakeholders.
• A hands-on, adaptable leader who thrives in dynamic startup environments, with integrity, credibility, and a collaborative mindset.

About NLC

NLC Health Ventures is a leading healthtech and biotech innovation platform based in Amsterdam, combining venture building and fund management across Europe and North America. With 40-45 employees, NLC manages four captive funds investing in ventures from pre-seed to Series B-C, and is fundraising for a fifth fund. The funds have a diverse LP base and are invested in over 70 companies. NLC values a collaborative, open, and impact-driven culture, where team members' ideas and contributions truly matter.