Position Title: Business Development Manager

Location: Europe and USA
Work Model: Home-Based/Remote with ability to travel
Work Type: Full-Time

Overview:

The Business Development Manager is a key role within the Clinical Research Organisation (CRO), responsible for identifying, developing, and managing relationships with clients and partners. This position focuses on driving revenue growth by promoting the CRO’s services, building long-term client relationships, and developing new business opportunities within the clinical research sector.

Key Responsibilities:

• Market and Client Research:
  • Identify potential clients and business opportunities through market research, networking, and industry events.
  • Analyse market trends and competitors to develop targeted sales strategies.
• Sales Strategy and Execution:
  • Develop and implement a business development plan to achieve revenue targets.
  • Lead the end-to-end sales process, from initial client contact and proposal development to contract negotiation and closing.
  • Promote the CRO’s services, including clinical trial management, data management, regulatory affairs, and other offerings.
• Client Relationship Management:
  • Establish and maintain strong relationships with key decision-makers and stakeholders within client organizations.
  • Serve as a primary point of contact for client inquiries, ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction.
  • Identify opportunities to expand existing client relationships and generate repeat business.
• Proposal and Contract Development:
  • Collaborate with internal teams to develop customized proposals, budgets, and contracts that align with client needs and organizational goals.
  • Ensure all proposals and contracts meet regulatory standards and reflect the CRO’s service capabilities.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration:
  • Work closely with project management, clinical operations, regulatory, and other departments to ensure smooth project initiation and execution.
  • Gather feedback from clients and internal teams to identify areas for improvement in service offerings and client interactions.
• Reporting and Performance Tracking:
  • Track and report on sales performance metrics, providing regular updates to senior management.
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of sales activities, client contacts, and agreements.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in life sciences, business, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in business development, sales, or a related role within the life sciences or clinical research industry.
• Proven track record of achieving or exceeding sales targets.
• Strong understanding of the clinical research process, CRO services, and industry regulations.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.

Preferred Skills:

• Advanced degree (e.g., MBA, Master’s in Life Sciences).
• Existing network within the life sciences or pharmaceutical industry.
• Proficiency in CRM software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Familiarity with specific therapeutic areas such as oncology, cardiology, or rare diseases.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional growth within a dynamic industry.

Position Title: Business Development Director (BDD)
Company: Global Full-Service CRO
Location: Home-Based (with ability to travel and meet with team as needed)
Reports To: Senior Leadership / CEO
Work Model: Remote with travel
Work Type: Full-Time

Job Summary

A Global Full-Service CRO is seeking a dynamic and strategic Business Development Director (BDD) to expand its global partnerships and accelerate business growth.

The BDD will design and execute business development strategies, build long-term client relationships, and oversee the entire sales cycle from prospecting through proposal and bid defense to contract finalisation. Working cross-functionally with operations, clinical, marketing, and proposal teams, the BDD will ensure seamless coordination to maximise business opportunities and secure new contracts.

This role requires a strong balance of strategic thinking, solution-oriented sales capabilities, and hands-on experience in the CRO or pharmaceutical industry.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Planning & Sales Execution

• Initiate, design, and implement sales and BD strategies to secure new business.
• Identify and qualify business opportunities within clinical research services.
• Secure and retain business through proactive, consultative sales approaches.
• Facilitate proposal development, define solutions, and recommend pricing structures aligned with company objectives.

Client Engagement & Relationship Building

• Serve as the primary contact for clients until contracts are finalised.
• Lead capabilities presentations and bid defense meetings with operational colleagues.
• Build and maintain relationships with C-level stakeholders and project decision-makers.
• Ensure client satisfaction through regular engagement and timely resolution of concerns.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with proposals, quotations, operations, and marketing teams to ensure feasibility and alignment.
• Provide leadership and input into proposals, presentations, and contract negotiations.
• Coordinate with internal project teams to support seamless project handover and implementation.

Market Intelligence & Competitive Positioning

• Monitor market trends, competitor activities, and client needs to refine BD strategies.
• Leverage insights to position the CRO’s services competitively across global markets.
• Represent the company at conferences, networking events, and industry meetings.

Performance Monitoring & Reporting

• Maintain accurate records of BD activities in the sales database.
• Prepare and present performance reports on pipeline development, proposals, and contracts.
• Develop recommendations to address challenges and maximise business outcomes.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a scientific discipline.
• Experience:
  • 5+ years of pharmaceutical/CRO industry experience, with at least 3 years in business or corporate development.
  • Direct knowledge of CRO operations and drug development processes.
  • Demonstrated ability to close high-value contracts and manage client relationships.
• Skills:
  • Strong communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
  • Ability to engage persuasively with senior executives and decision-makers.
  • Hands-on approach with strong business acumen, pragmatism, and strategic vision.
  • Results-driven mindset with proven ability to manage multiple priorities.
  • Financial modelling and valuation expertise.
  • English: full professional proficiency (written and spoken).
• Other Requirements:
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and CRM/sales tools.
  • Ability to travel in line with BD strategy.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary plus performance-based incentives.
• Remote working flexibility with global travel opportunities.
• Professional growth and advancement within a leading CRO.
• Collaborate with high-performing global teams and contribute to innovative clinical research.