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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 dedicated to accelerating clinical development for life-changing therapies.
- 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 values innovation and collaboration in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in clinical services sales with a strong track record in biotech.
- Other info: Opportunity to represent the company at industry events and grow your professional network.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ 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 open doors to new business opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on the latest trends and developments in clinical research and the biotech industry. This knowledge will not only help you engage effectively with clients but also position you as a thought leader when discussing tailored solutions.
✨Tip Number 3
Leverage your existing connections and past clients to gather referrals. A strong recommendation from a trusted source can significantly enhance your credibility and increase your chances of winning new business.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to showcase your success stories and case studies during networking interactions. Demonstrating your proven track record in closing deals and delivering results will make you a more attractive candidate for this role.
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 small to mid-sized biotech companies.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your passion for clinical development and your understanding of the CRO landscape. Discuss specific examples of how you've successfully engaged clients and closed deals, showcasing your negotiation and communication skills.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your skills that align with the job requirements, such as your ability to develop tailored proposals and your understanding of the clinical development lifecycle. Use concrete examples to demonstrate these skills.
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 you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
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 effectively 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 results.
✨Demonstrate Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working with internal teams, be ready to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with scientific and operational teams in the past. Share examples that illustrate your ability to develop tailored client solutions.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about the clinical development lifecycle and regulatory environment. Brush up on relevant terminology and processes to confidently translate scientific concepts into business proposals during the interview.
