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- Tasks: Lead business development efforts in the UK biotech sector, engaging clients and closing deals.
- Company: Join a globally recognised CRO delivering innovative clinical development solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy remote work flexibility and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a mission to bring life-changing therapies to market faster and more efficiently.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in selling clinical services with a strong track record in biotech.
- Other info: Represent the company at industry events and collaborate with top-tier teams.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ 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
Stay updated on the latest trends and developments in clinical research and the biotech sector. This knowledge will not only help you in conversations but also demonstrate your commitment and expertise during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully closed deals in the past. Highlight your experience with Phases I–IV clinical services and be ready to explain your approach to overcoming challenges in the sales process.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the company's services and recent projects. Tailoring your discussions to reflect their offerings and how you can contribute to their growth will show that you're genuinely interested and well-prepared for the role.
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. Include specific metrics or examples that 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 how your skills align with the company's goals and how you can contribute to their growth in the UK market.
Follow Up: After submitting your application, consider sending a polite follow-up email to express your continued interest in the position. This 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 to potential clients.
✨Prepare Tailored Proposals
Since the role involves developing customised proposals, think about how you would approach this task for different types of 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 upcoming industry conferences and events where you could represent the company. Be ready to discuss your networking strategies and how you’ve successfully built long-term relationships in the past, as this will highlight your ability to foster repeat business.
