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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 the chance to make a real impact in healthcare.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team that drives life-changing therapies to market faster.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in selling clinical services with a strong track record in biotech.
- Other info: Opportunity to represent the company at industry events and network with key players.
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, seminars, and networking events to meet potential clients and partners. Building relationships in person 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
Develop a strong understanding of the company's offerings and how they align with the needs of small to mid-sized biotech firms. Tailoring your approach to highlight how you can leverage their services to solve client problems will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Business Development - UK (CRO)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in business development, particularly within the clinical research sector. Emphasise your successes in selling Phases I–IV clinical services and any relevant achievements with biotech companies.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for clinical development and your understanding of the CRO landscape. Mention specific examples of how you've successfully engaged with small to mid-sized biotech clients and closed deals.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your communication, negotiation, and presentation skills. Provide examples of how these skills have helped you win new business and foster long-term relationships in previous roles.
Showcase Industry Knowledge: Demonstrate your understanding of the clinical development lifecycle and regulatory environment in your application. This will show the company that you are well-versed in the industry and can effectively translate scientific solutions into business proposals.
How to prepare for a job interview at Harris & Co Executive Search
✨Know Your Market
Familiarise yourself with the UK biotech landscape, especially small to mid-sized companies. Understand their challenges and how the CRO can provide solutions. This knowledge will help you engage in meaningful conversations during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Success Stories
Prepare specific examples of your past successes in selling clinical services. Highlight your achievements in closing deals and building relationships with clients, as this role heavily relies on proven experience in business development.
✨Understand the Clinical Development Lifecycle
Brush up on your knowledge of the clinical development process from Phases I to IV. Be ready to discuss how you can leverage this understanding to create tailored proposals that meet client needs.
✨Demonstrate Strong Communication Skills
Since excellent communication is a must-have for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Prepare to discuss how you would present complex scientific concepts in a way that resonates with potential clients.
