Office Manager/Executive Assistant

Opportunity

As a joint venture between MD Anderson Cancer Center and Berkeley Lights, Optera Therapeutics is a new clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company offering a unique and synergistic combination of biology and technology to develop best in class cell therapies for patients suffering from diseases with grave unmet needs. 

Based in San Diego, CA, Optera is currently seeking an exceptional Office Manager/EA to join our team.  This individual will directly support the CEO and be responsible for managing administrative functions in the new corporate headquarters. This position may start immediately on a part-time basis and move to full time within the next 3-4 months. 

This is an outstanding opportunity to contribute as an essential member of a dynamic start-up company driven by a leadership team of proven drug developers.

Key Contributions/Responsibilities

• Manage a very active calendar and travel schedule, keeping the CEO updated on a regular basis. 
• Organize various meetings; meeting logistics, including Board of Directors meetings, investor meetings, hotel, catering; and conference calls.
• Handle details of a highly confidential and critical nature, including as part of a financing process.
• Establish and manage administrative functions for a new corporate office, including procurement of office supplies and light facilities oversight.
• Facilitate contracts process with finance and legal.
• Schedule interviews and interface with candidates.
• Coordinate company social events.
• Support other Optera team members as needed.

Qualifications

• Minimum of five (5) years of related experience.  Biotech/Life Sciences experience strongly preferred.
• Computer proficiency (Advanced skills in MS Word and PowerPoint; intermediate skills in Excel); MS Project and/or Access desirable.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication (oral and written) skills, including ability to deal appropriately with sensitive and confidential information.
• Experience in coordinating heavy meeting and travel arrangements.
• Flexible and able to multi-task using time & self-management skills.
• Experience in interfacing with senior level executives, customers, and vendors.
• Ability to work independently and apply decision making and judgement.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to details.