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- Tasks: Lead business development efforts in the UK biotech sector, focusing on Phases I–IV clinical services.
- Company: Join a globally recognised CRO dedicated to accelerating life-changing therapies to market.
- 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 clinical development.
- 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 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
Locations
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 cycle.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the company's services and recent projects. Tailoring your discussions around their offerings and showing how your skills align with their needs can 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 achievements in securing new business and managing client relationships, especially with small to mid-sized 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 clients and closed deals in the past, aligning your experience with the key responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your skills in communication, negotiation, and presentation. Provide examples of how these skills have contributed to your success in previous roles, particularly in relation to the clinical development lifecycle.
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 the radar of the hiring team and demonstrate 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. Understand the key players, current trends, and challenges they face. This knowledge will help you demonstrate your expertise and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Success Stories
Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully closed deals in the past, particularly within Phases I–IV clinical services. Highlight your strategies and the impact of your contributions to previous companies.
✨Demonstrate Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working closely with internal teams, be ready to discuss how you've effectively collaborated with different departments in the past. Share examples of how teamwork led to successful outcomes.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about the clinical development lifecycle and regulatory environment. Brush up on relevant terminology and processes to confidently address any technical queries during the interview.
