Job Type
Full-time
Defense and Advanced Technology PracticeThe Defense & Advanced Technology Practice helps engineering and technology companies-from startups to Fortune 500s-secure federal R&D funding to develop, commercialize, and scale innovation. We work across Defense, Emerging Technologies, Energy, and Biotechnology, with this role focused on
biotechnology funding strategy and execution.
Primary Duties & ResponsibilitiesWe're seeking a
Managing Director to lead federal funding strategy and proposal development for biotechnology clients. You'll manage the full lifecycle-from identifying opportunities to submitting competitive proposals-across agencies such as
NIH, ARPA-H, NSF, DOD, FDA, and USDA.
This role combines
client leadership, strategic advising, and hands-on proposal management for funding ranging from
SBIR Phase I (less than $250K) to large-scale programs (greater than $20M).
Client Management & Strategy- Serve as the primary advisor on federal funding strategy for biotech clients
- Lead client engagements, including regular agenda setting, updates, presentations, and strategic planning
- Build and manage relationships and deliver high-quality, deadline-driven results
Funding Opportunity Identification & Positioning- Identify, track, and assess funding opportunities aligned to client goals
- Lead bid/no-bid decisions based on fit, competitiveness, and resourcing
- Develop strategic funding roadmaps across federal and complementary funding sources
- Monitor trends in biotechnology funding, policy, and agency priorities
Proposal Development- Lead end-to-end proposal development (concept ? submission)
- Define proposal strategy, positioning, and messaging to improve win probability
- Build and manage cross-functional teams (SMEs, writers, reviewers, etc.)
- Develop white papers, concept papers, and briefing materials
- Establish timelines, processes, and quality controls
Strategic Consulting- Guide clients on partnerships, consortium building, and stakeholder engagement
- Support interactions with federal agencies, program officers, and partners
- Advise on compliance, readiness, and post-award capacity building
Collaboration- Partner with Vice Presidents and cross-practice teams on client strategy
- Contribute to internal knowledge sharing and best practices
- Mentor junior team members as needed
- Support business development and client growth initiatives
Requirements
Required- Master's degree in biotechnology, life sciences, bioengineering, or related field
Public policy/health degrees with biotech experience also considered) - 6+ years of relevant experience (R&D, federal funding, or proposal development)
- Strong project management and proposal leadership experience
- Excellent communication, client-facing, and analytical skills
Preferred- Experience with NIH, NSF, DOD, or other federal agencies
- Background in industry R&D, academia, tech transfer, or federal agencies
- Familiarity with federal appropriations and grant processes
- PMP, APMP, or similar certification
Key Success Traits- Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving skills
- Detail-oriented and deadline-driven
- Confident communicator and client advisor
- Highly collaborative with a strong customer service mindset
Compensation & Benefits: - Normal work hours are 8:30 am through 5:30 pm Monday through Friday EST (for local staff)
- Location: In-office preferred (Washington, D.C.).
- Hybrid work schedule - 3 days in the office as determined by supervisor and/or practice
- Competitive 401(k), healthcare, dental, life insurance, long-term disability, dependent care FSA, HSA/FSA, and transit benefits.
- Salary consideration will be commensurate with experience starting at $100,000.00 annual base salary and bonus eligible after one year of continuous service.
- Flexible vacation and leave policy.
Application InstructionsPlease submit a cover letter and resume file along with your application through our careers page: https://jm-aq.com/careers/ . The cover letter should speak to how your education and/or work experiences integrate with the role and why you are the best fit for the position.
