Business Development Manager – DACH (Drug Discovery CRO)

About the role

We are seeking a dynamic Business Development Manager to lead our expansion in the DACH region for a leading integrated drug discovery CRO. This hunter‑focused position will represent the company across Germany, Austria and Switzerland, building new partnerships with biotech and pharma organizations.

Key responsibilities

• Build and manage a pipeline of small‑molecule drug discovery opportunities across the DACH territory.
• Prospect, conduct cold outreach and network with target validation, hit‑to‑lead and lead optimisation teams at emerging and established biotech companies.
• Represent the CRO at industry conferences and partnering events.
• Collaborate with scientific and project‑management teams in Europe to scope proposals and convert opportunities into signed contracts.
• Own the full sales cycle from lead generation through deal closure.
• Report pipeline status, forecasting and market intelligence to senior leadership.

Required profile

• Minimum 5 years of business development experience within a small‑molecule CRO or CDMO.
• Established network and strong relationships across the DACH biotech and pharma ecosystem.
• Proven hunter mentality with a track record of sourcing and closing new logo business.
• Chemistry‑related degree preferred.
• Comfortable working with a European headquarters and time zones.

Required skills

What we offer

• Autonomy to build and own a new territory.
• Opportunity to work closely with scientific leadership on cutting‑edge drug discovery programs.
• Exposure to a fast‑growing, science‑driven organization.