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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: Be part of a dynamic team making a real impact in bringing life-changing therapies to market.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in selling clinical services 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 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Location: United Kingdom (Remote)
Full-Time | Permanent
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 UK biotech community. Attend industry conferences, seminars, and networking events to meet potential clients and partners. Building relationships in person can significantly enhance your visibility and credibility in the market.
✨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 engage more effectively with clients but also position you as a thought leader when discussing tailored solutions.
✨Tip Number 3
Leverage social media platforms like LinkedIn to connect with key decision-makers in small to mid-sized biotech companies. Share relevant content and insights to establish yourself as an expert in the field, which can lead to new business opportunities.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by practising how to articulate your past successes in winning new business. Use specific examples that demonstrate your understanding of the clinical development lifecycle and your ability to create compelling proposals.
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 clients and closed deals in the past.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your communication, negotiation, and presentation skills. Provide examples of how these skills have helped you build relationships and win new business in previous roles.
Showcase Industry Knowledge: Demonstrate your understanding of the clinical development lifecycle and regulatory environment in your application. This will show that you are well-prepared to engage with clients and provide tailored solutions.
How to prepare for a job interview at Harris & Co Executive Search
✨Showcase Your Deal-Making Skills
Prepare specific examples of successful deals you've closed in the past, particularly within the biotech sector. Highlight your strategies and how you navigated challenges to secure those wins.
✨Understand the Clinical Development Lifecycle
Brush up on your knowledge of Phases I–IV clinical services and the regulatory environment. Being able to discuss these phases confidently will demonstrate your expertise and understanding of the industry.
✨Tailor Your Approach
Research the company and its services thoroughly. Be ready to discuss how you can leverage their offerings to meet the needs of potential clients, showcasing your ability to create customised proposals.
✨Network Like a Pro
Since this role involves representing the company at industry events, practice your networking skills. Prepare a brief pitch about yourself and the company that you can use to engage with potential clients and partners.
