Director, Business Development - Preclinical CRO

Director of Business Development

Location: Boston/Cambridge, MA (local candidates only)

Our client, a specialized contract research organization (CRO) providing services from early-stage preclinical research through GLP-compliant studies, is seeking a Director of Business Development to join their growing team. This role will be instrumental in expanding partnerships across the biotech and pharmaceutical ecosystem, helping clients advance novel therapies efficiently toward clinical development.

Key Responsibilities

• Business Development: Identify, pursue, and secure new business opportunities with biotech, pharma, and life science organizations.

• Client Partnerships: Represent the full continuum of services - from discovery and preclinical models through regulated GLP studies - tailoring solutions to meet sponsor needs.

• Revenue Growth: Develop and execute strategies that drive sales, revenue, and profitability.

• Market Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with key decision-makers across the life sciences industry.

• Collaboration: Partner with internal scientific and operational teams to align service offerings with client requirements.

• Industry Awareness: Monitor industry trends and competitor activities to inform strategy and positioning.

• Reporting: Provide regular updates on pipeline development, client feedback, and progress toward revenue goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a scientific field required; Master's degree preferred.

• 10+ years of experience in business development within a CRO, preclinical services, or pharmaceutical organization.

• Proven track record of driving business growth and building strong client relationships in the life sciences sector.

• Strong understanding of preclinical and GLP-regulated services.

• Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate complex scientific services into client value.

• Highly motivated, entrepreneurial, and client-focused.

• Local to the Boston/Cambridge market; regional travel required.