At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage with biotech clients and contribute to innovative drug discovery programmes.
- Company: Join a multi-award-winning CRO with a focus on life science innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance incentives, mentorship, and hybrid work flexibility.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for global exposure and career growth.
- Why this job: Transition from lab to commercial leadership while staying connected to science.
- Qualifications: Post-doctoral or early-career experience in biotech, with strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
We are looking to hire a Business Development Executive across the UK/Europe region, designed for candidates ready to transition or have already transitioned from the lab into a commercially impactful role without stepping away from science. This is a scientist-first BD role, where your technical expertise remains central to every client interaction and decision.
You will work closely with senior VP BD leaders for respective regions to:
- Engage with biotech and pharma clients on cutting-edge drug discovery programmes
- Contribute to the development of scientific proposals and partnership discussions
- Coordinate discovery programmes between clients and global delivery teams
- Build and nurture relationships across key biotech ecosystems
This role is a structured pathway from bench science to commercial leadership.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Business Development able to present complex science clearly to a range of audiences
- Genuine passion for drug discovery and the broader life science and biotech ecosystem
- Comfortable working independently and proactively in a remote, hybrid environment
- Willingness and ability to travel regularly across the USA for client meetings and conferences
- Collaborative, cross-cultural communication skills — effective working with teams in India and the UK
- Advantageous Post-doctoral experience or early-career industry experience in a CRO, biotech, or pharma setting
- Existing professional network in the US biotech ecosystem (Boston/Cambridge, MA, Bay Area, San Diego, Seattle)
- Familiarity with the CRO outsourcing landscape and how discovery programmes are structured commercially
- Experience with project management tools, ELNs, CRM platforms, or scientific data management systems
- Interest in or prior exposure to commercial activity — client communication, consulting, or scientific outreach
What You’ll Gain
- A clear path into commercial leadership in biotech
- Mentorship from experienced BD leaders
- Exposure to global clients and discovery programmes
- Hybrid flexibility with meaningful in-person engagement
- Competitive salary with performance-linked incentives
Business Development Executive (UK/Europe) employer: o2h discovery
At o2h discovery, we pride ourselves on being a scientist-first employer, offering a unique opportunity for Business Development Executives to transition from lab work to impactful commercial roles while remaining deeply connected to the science. Our collaborative and innovative work culture fosters mentorship and growth, providing employees with a clear pathway to commercial leadership in biotech, alongside competitive salaries and performance-linked incentives. Located in the vibrant Cambridge SciTech Park, our hybrid work environment encourages meaningful engagement and regular travel across key biotech ecosystems, making it an exciting place for those passionate about drug discovery.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Executive (UK/Europe)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your existing contacts in the biotech and pharma sectors. Attend industry events, webinars, or even local meetups to connect with potential employers and showcase your passion for drug discovery.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by brushing up on your communication skills. Practice explaining complex scientific concepts in simple terms. Remember, you want to show that you can engage effectively with clients from various backgrounds.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After meeting someone or having an interview, send a quick thank-you email. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our innovative ecosystem at o2h discovery.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Executive (UK/Europe)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Science:Make sure to highlight your genuine passion for drug discovery and the life science ecosystem in your application. We want to see how your scientific background fuels your interest in business development.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic CV and cover letter! Tailor your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Business Development Executive role. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their background to our needs.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and concise. We appreciate straightforward communication, especially when it comes to complex scientific concepts. Show us you can present information effectively!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at o2h discovery
✨Know Your Science Inside Out
As a Business Development Executive, your scientific expertise is crucial. Brush up on the latest trends in drug discovery and be ready to discuss how your background can add value to client interactions. This will help you present complex science clearly and confidently.
✨Show Your Passion for the Industry
Demonstrate your genuine enthusiasm for biotech and life sciences during the interview. Share specific examples of projects or experiences that ignited your interest in drug discovery. This passion will resonate with interviewers and show that you're not just looking for any job, but are truly invested in this field.
✨Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios
Since the role involves working with diverse teams across cultures, think of examples where you've successfully collaborated in a team setting. Be ready to discuss how you can effectively communicate and build relationships with clients and colleagues from different backgrounds.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Commercial Aspects
Understanding the commercial landscape is key. Research the CRO outsourcing model and be prepared to discuss how discovery programmes are structured commercially. This knowledge will set you apart and show that you're ready to transition from bench science to a commercial role.
