The opportunity
We are seeking a dynamic and visionary leader to join our team as the National Director, DHDP and drive the execution of the Digital Health and Discovery Platform (DHDP), an initiative run by the Terry Fox Research Institute (TFRI). The purpose of the DHDP is to make precision medicine and personalized clinical care available to all Canadians. Reporting to the President and Scientific Director, the National Director, DHDP will oversee the delivery of the DHDP and develop the commercialization strategy of the platform according to the long-term vision set by TFRI, the Innovation, Science and Economic Development Portfolio (ISED) and the DHDP Executive Committee.
The mission of DHDP is to bring precision medicine and personalized care to Canadians in the areas of cancer and neurodegenerative diseases through the application of big data and artificial intelligence. By transforming how health data is shared and analyzed, the DHDP aims to create new opportunities for collaborative research and stimulate the commercialization of Canadian-made, homegrown research discoveries using cutting-edge AI and other computational platforms.
Our ideal candidate is an experienced industry professional with a strong background in high-level strategy and business development in the health technology space. They have a proven track record of analyzing project requirements, identifying gaps and opportunities, and breaking them down into actionable steps. By leveraging their extensive network within the private health technology industry, the incumbent will actively promote the DHDP, attracting new partners and public-private user base to ensure its long-term sustainability beyond 2027.
About the Terry Fox Research Institute and DHDP
The Terry Fox Research Institute (TFRI), named for Canadian icon Terry Fox , is built on Terry's dream to end cancer through research. Established in 2007, TFRI is a registered charity and invests its funds in cutting-edge cancer research through highly collaborative, team-oriented programs and national research networks. Together with its many research and funding partners, TFRI empowers Canada's brightest researchers to seek out new transformational and precision medicine discoveries to advance our understanding, diagnosis and treatment of cancer with the goal of significantly improving outcomes for patients. One of these landmark projects is the Digital Health Discovery Platform (DHDP).
Responsibilities
Networking and partnerships: 40%
- Utilizing a strong health technology network, identify and form tri-party relationships between the DHDP, public organizations and private sector companies.
- Collaborate with internal teams to ensure effective collaboration, alignment between all interest holders and seamless execution of partnership initiatives and communication activities.
- Map the alignment of DHDP within the broader system infrastructure and ecosystem, focusing on its strategic value and differentiation.
- Negotiate with external organizations, consultants and other interest holders, leveraging a strong network in the life sciences industry to capitalize on commercialization opportunities.
- Represent and promote the possibilities of the DHDP at industry conferences, investor meetings, scientific meetings and networking events to promote its mission and foster collaboration and partnering opportunities.
Business development and sustainability: 40%
- Develop a sustainable business model and risk management framework for the DHDP, identifying precision medicine opportunities and planning for the commercialization of DHDP after 2027.
- Develop DHDP value proposition for the health technology market by analyzing the competitive landscape and creating a strategy tailored to the public sector and private industry organizations.
- Continuously monitor industry trends and market dynamics to identify research and commercialization opportunities to maintain DHDP competitiveness and growth.
DHDP team leadership: 20%
- Understand the ISED and TFRI vision of the platform in the context of the overall emerging health technology landscape.
- Translate that vision into strategic plans, KPIs and technical requirements for the DHDP team to execute, ensuring operations align with the vision and timeline.
- Track, report and communicate updates of progress, successes and challenges to the DHDP Executive Committee during quarterly or ad-hoc meetings as required.
Qualifications
- Master's or PhD in science, engineering, health technology or a related field that provides a strong understanding of AI, machine learning and/or technology development.
- A Master's in Business Administration (MBA) or equivalent advanced degree is preferred.
- Proven experience (minimum 10 years) in a leadership position in the private sector health technology space or equivalent with, preferably, a demonstrated familiarity of the Canadian health system and data sharing and commercialization ecosystem challenges.
- Possesses network and connections within the biotechnology, health technology, private sector investment or other relevant spaces.
- Excellent negotiation, communication and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex scientific and technical information to diverse audiences.
- Strategic mindset with the ability to identify and evaluate new partnership opportunities, assess risks and make informed recommendations.
- Strong understanding of commercialization strategies, including technology transfer, IP management and market adoption.
- Knowledge of responsible innovation and AI integration in strategic planning is an asset.
- Proactive, results-driven and able to work independently and collaboratively within cross-functional teams.
- Proven ability to analyze market dynamics, assess business opportunities and develop business development and partnership strategies.
- Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines.
- Ability to navigate complex interest holder landscapes, including government, industry and research institutions.
- Entrepreneurial mindset with a problem-solving mentality.
Join us!
Please email your cover letter and resume to hr@tfri.ca with the subject line: National Director, DHDP. Please note that applications will be considered until the role is filled.
The candidate must be authorized to work in Canada. English language required.
We recognize the importance of diversity and equity in our workforce and encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including Indigenous persons, women, persons with disabilities, minorities and other underrepresented communities.
Salary: $140,000 - $170,000