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- Tasks: Lead business development efforts in the UK biotech sector, engaging clients and closing deals.
- Company: Join a top global CRO known for delivering innovative clinical development solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy remote work flexibility and opportunities to attend industry events.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare by helping bring life-changing therapies to market.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in clinical services sales with a strong track record in biotech.
- Other info: Opportunity to collaborate with scientific and operational teams for tailored client solutions.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 84000 £ per year.
Are you a proven dealmaker with a passion for clinical development? My client, a dynamic and globally recognized Contract Research Organization (CRO), is seeking a Director of Business Development to lead and expand their growth efforts in the UK market. This role focuses on engaging small to mid-sized biotech clients across Phases I–IV.
About the Company
My client is a leading Global CRO delivering high-quality, full-service clinical development solutions. From First-in-Human studies to global Phase III trials, they partner with biotech and pharmaceutical innovators to bring life-changing therapies to market faster and more efficiently.
The Role
As Director of Business Development, you will be responsible for identifying, developing, and closing new business opportunities within the small to mid-sized biotech sector across the UK. You will represent their full suite of clinical services and collaborate with internal scientific, operational, and executive teams to deliver tailored client solutions.
Key Responsibilities
- Identify and engage new business opportunities across the UK biotech sector
- Manage the entire sales cycle from prospecting through to contract close
- Collaborate with internal teams to develop customized proposals and strategies
- Cultivate long-term relationships to foster repeat business and referrals
- Track pipeline activity, forecast accurately, and report progress regularly
- Represent the company at industry conferences, networking events, and client meetings
Must-Have Requirements
- Minimum 5 years of proven success in selling Phases I–IV clinical services at a CRO
- Demonstrated track record of winning new business with small to mid-sized biotech companies
- Strong understanding of the clinical development lifecycle and regulatory environment
- Ability to translate scientific/technical solutions into compelling business proposals
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills
- Based in the UK with the ability to travel nationally and internationally as needed
Director of Business Development - UK (CRO) employer: Harris & Co Executive Search
Contact Detail:
Harris & Co Executive Search Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Business Development - UK (CRO)
✨Tip Number 1
Network actively within the biotech community in the UK. Attend industry conferences and events where you can meet potential clients and partners. Building relationships with key players in the sector can significantly enhance your chances of landing this role.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and challenges in clinical development, particularly for small to mid-sized biotech companies. Being knowledgeable about current market dynamics will help you engage more effectively with potential clients and demonstrate your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your previous successes in business development, especially in selling clinical services. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've closed deals and built long-term client relationships, as this will be crucial in interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Leverage social media platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in the CRO and biotech sectors. Share relevant content and insights to position yourself as a thought leader, which can attract attention from recruiters and hiring managers.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Business Development - UK (CRO)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Director of Business Development position. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in selling clinical services and engaging with biotech clients.
Craft a Compelling CV: Your CV should clearly showcase your achievements in business development, particularly in the CRO sector. Use quantifiable metrics to demonstrate your success in winning new business and managing client relationships.
Write a Tailored Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for clinical development and your understanding of the biotech landscape. Highlight specific examples of how you've successfully engaged with small to mid-sized biotech companies and how you can contribute to the company's growth.
Follow Up: After submitting your application, consider sending a polite follow-up email to express your continued interest in the position. This shows initiative and can help keep your application top of mind for the hiring team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Harris & Co Executive Search
✨Showcase Your Deal-Making Skills
As a Director of Business Development, your ability to close deals is crucial. Prepare specific examples of successful negotiations and how you overcame challenges in previous roles. This will demonstrate your expertise and confidence in driving business growth.
✨Understand the Clinical Development Lifecycle
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the clinical development lifecycle and regulatory environment. Be ready to discuss how this knowledge has helped you in past roles, especially when engaging with biotech clients. This will show that you can effectively communicate complex concepts.
✨Prepare Tailored Proposals
Since the role involves developing customised proposals, think about how you would approach this for potential clients. Bring examples of past proposals you've created and be prepared to discuss your strategy for tailoring solutions to meet client needs.
✨Network Like a Pro
Networking is key in this role. Research industry conferences and events where you can connect with potential clients. During the interview, share your experiences at such events and how you’ve successfully built relationships that led to new business opportunities.
