Global Head of Business Development – CRO / Drug Discovery

Industry: Life Sciences / Contract Research

Overview:

An internationally established CRO is seeking a Global Head of Business Development to spearhead the next phase of its commercial expansion. This executive-level role involves overseeing sales, marketing, client relationships, and growth strategy across biotech and pharmaceutical clients globally. The goal: to build a high-performing commercial engine that drives revenue, deepens partnerships, and positions the company as a leader in integrated drug discovery services.

The role reports directly to the CEO and sits on the executive leadership team.

Key Priorities:

• Scale the commercial organization to double revenue within the next 3–4 years.
• Build and lead a high-performing sales team focused on customer satisfaction, margin expansion, and long-term client partnerships.
• Strengthen relationships with global big pharma and biotech accounts, while expanding the base of academic and emerging biotech clients.
• Develop integrated growth strategies (short, medium, and long-term) that align commercial goals with evolving client needs.
• Design and implement a strategic Key Account Management process.
• Represent the company at a senior level in industry engagements and with C-suite stakeholders.
• Collaborate with the CEO and leadership to ensure commercial strategy is aligned with company-wide objectives.

Key Requirements:

• 15–20 years of experience in biotech, CRO, pharma, or related industries, with at least 5 years in a senior BD or commercial leadership role.
• Proven track record of growing commercial value in the B2B life sciences space (services or product-based).
• Deep technical understanding of drug discovery, including exposure to R&D pipelines.
• Strong experience in scaling commercial teams, driving pricing strategy, and building long-term account relationships.
• Prior involvement in M&A or post-deal integration is a plus.
• International experience and a global mindset—experience working with stakeholders in India is preferred.
• Strategic thinking combined with hands-on leadership and the ability to inspire commercial teams.

Preferred Experience:

• Has led the build and scale-up of a commercial team globally.
• Familiarity with structured sales processes and key account methodologies.
• Experience partnering with Boards and CEOs to shape organizational direction.

What’s Offered:

• Executive leadership role with strategic influence across global markets.
• Opportunity to shape the commercial future of a growing discovery-focused CRO.
• Frequent engagement with cutting-edge science across multiple therapeutic areas.
• Flexible working with global travel opportunities.