Director of Business Development – Drug Discovery (USA Territory)

Industry: Contract Research / Drug Discovery & Development

Overview:

A global Contract Research Organization with deep scientific expertise is looking for a Director of Business Development to lead commercial efforts across a defined U.S. territory. The company offers end-to-end discovery solutions—from synthetic and medicinal chemistry through to PR&D, GMP manufacturing, and advanced biology services.

This role will serve as the face of the business in the U.S. market, with responsibility for identifying strategic opportunities, developing client relationships, and driving revenue growth through innovative service partnerships.

Position Summary:

The Director will design and execute a business development strategy focused on engaging pharmaceutical, biotech, and academic partners. The role requires strong knowledge of the drug discovery value chain and the ability to consult with stakeholders across multiple functional areas. This is a key individual contributor role reporting directly to the Global Head of Business Development.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead new business development efforts across a U.S. territory, particularly targeting pharma, biotech, and academic institutions.
• Identify potential clients and generate demand for integrated discovery and chemistry services including medicinal chemistry, structural biology, PR&D, and GMP manufacturing.
• Manage the end-to-end sales cycle: NDA/MSA processing, proposal creation, pricing, negotiation, and deal closure.
• Build, maintain, and expand key account relationships while identifying cross-sell and upsell opportunities.
• Represent the organization at major industry events and conferences to boost brand visibility and lead generation.
• Collaborate with global teams across scientific, legal, and operational functions to ensure alignment on project delivery.
• Document activity through regular CRM updates and weekly reporting.

Qualifications & Skills:

• 15–20 years of experience in the life sciences, biotech, or pharmaceutical services sector, with at least 5 years in a senior business development or client-facing role.
• Deep understanding of drug discovery processes and CRO service models, including FFS, FTE, and risk-sharing engagements.
• Demonstrated success in business strategy, deal structuring, contract negotiation, and closing complex sales.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to engage with cross-functional stakeholders—from scientists to C-level executives.
• Experience with clients across biotech, academia, and big pharma is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in CRM tools and an analytical mindset for tracking pipeline health and market intelligence.
• Willingness to travel within the U.S. as needed for client meetings and events.

What’s on Offer:

• A competitive compensation package with performance-based incentives.
• An opportunity to work with a globally recognized CRO delivering innovative discovery and development services.
• The ability to shape commercial strategy in a growing U.S. market.
• Access to highly integrated research infrastructure and multidisciplinary scientific teams.