(Senior) Director of Business Development EU (m/f/d)

Candidate Role:

Reporting directly to the Commercial Officer, the (Senior) Director Business Development EU plays a key role in expanding the company’s CMC service offerings across Europe and select international markets. The position focuses on driving B2B sales in the life sciences sector, particularly in biologics and gene therapy, by leading the full sales cycle from lead generation to deal closure. This includes shaping commercial strategies, managing client relationships, and expanding the company’s protein and gene testing service portfolio.

The ideal candidate is a strategic, hands-on commercial leader with deep industry expertise and a proven track record in complex sales. Extensive experience in selling protein analytical services is essential. Beyond sales execution, the role also involves building internal business development systems and supporting the organizational growth of the sales function.

Key Responsibilities:

• Expand customer base and sales volume for protein analytical services.

• Grow the biologics and gene/cell therapy client portfolio across Europe and international markets.

• Lead full-cycle business development—from market segmentation and lead generation to proposal development, contract negotiation, and closure.

• Build and maintain long-term relationships with key stakeholders in pharma and biotech.

• Exceed revenue targets through high-value contract wins and expansion of existing accounts.

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities through market research and client outreach.

• Develop and maintain a robust sales pipeline to meet or exceed booking and revenue goals.

• Collaborate with internal teams to improve and evolve sales processes, tools, and systems.

• Contribute to the development of sales strategies, plans, and targets.

• Represent the company at industry conferences, trade shows, and networking events (virtual and in-person).

• Monitor and report on progress toward sales objectives and market penetration.

• Drive the ongoing development of the business development function within the organization.

Skills and attributes:

• Proven track record of closing complex deals with pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, particularly in protein-based and gene therapy development.

• Deep understanding of drug development processes, including NBEs, biosimilars, and gene therapeutics.

• Strong business acumen with a strategic, results-driven, and solution-oriented mindset.

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.

• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain high-value client relationships; an existing network within the biopharma industry is expected.

• Highly self-motivated, organized, and able to work independently in dynamic, ambiguous environments.

• Hands-on approach with the ability to think strategically and execute effectively.

• Willingness to travel across assigned international territories.

Qualifications:

• University degree in Life Sciences or a related field, combined with a minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience in biologics drug development is required; an additional qualification in business, marketing, or a related discipline is highly desirable.

• At least 7 years of experience in business development or solution-based selling within analytical CROs, biopharma, or biotech environments, with a proven ability to drive growth in complex, science-driven markets.

• Proven sales success in advanced biologics and gene therapy markets.

• Strong understanding of biopharmaceutical drug development and analytics, particularly for New Biological Entities (NBEs) and biosimilars.

• Familiarity with CRM systems and proficiency in Microsoft 365.

• Self-starter with the ability to work independently, manage ambiguity, and drive initiatives with minimal oversight.

• Fluent in English; proficiency in at least one additional European language is highly desirable.

What you can expect with us:

• An influential role in a fast-growing, innovation-driven life science company where your expertise directly shapes strategic outcomes.

• Targeted onboarding and continuous development, empowering you to thrive and grow in a highly specialized environment.

• Flexibility and autonomy through adaptable working hours that respect your professional rhythm and personal commitments.

• A high-performing, collaborative culture, where cross-functional teamwork and mutual success are core values.

• A culture of respect and openness, where your voice is heard, feedback is valued, and contributions are recognized.

• A competitive, performance-based compensation package that reflects your experience, impact, and leadership.