Head of Business Development - Stevenage, UK - Global Bio-Pharmaceutical

Head of Business Development - Stevenage, UK - Global Bio-Pharmaceutical Location: Stevanage, United Kingdom - Be prepared to either be in the office in Stevenage or meeting customers 4 days a week Start date: ASAP Type of position: Permanent Job Description Partnered with a biotechnology company specialising in advanced in vitro models for respiratory safety and immune response testing. They develop innovative cell culture platforms that replicate human lung biology, enabling more accurate and ethical alternatives to animal testing. Their patented technologies focus on alveolar macrophage responses and immune-competent airway models, helping researchers assess inhalation toxicity and immune reactions with greater precision. This client offers contract research services, including high-content imaging and multi-endpoint analysis, tailored to pharmaceutical, chemical, and consumer product industries Position Summary: We are seeking a dynamic and results-oriented Business Development professional to drive commercial growth and strategic expansion. This role involves identifying new opportunities, showcasing scientific and operational strengths to potential clients, securing contracts, and managing key accounts. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in the life sciences sector, particularly within contract research—and a passion for building long-term client partnerships. Key Responsibilities Strategic Business Development Identify and pursue high-value opportunities across multiple industry sectors Build and maintain a strong pipeline through networking, research, and industry engagement Collaborate with internal teams to tailor proposals and client presentations Client Engagement & Relationship Management Present capabilities and value propositions to prospective clients Lead meetings, site visits, and proposal negotiations Strengthen relationships with existing clients and identify growth opportunities Represent the organization at conferences, trade shows, and networking events Team Leadership & Coaching Mentor and develop a small business development team Set performance goals and provide ongoing feedback Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture Coordinate efforts across BD, marketing, and scientific teams Market Intelligence & Reporting Track industry trends, competitor activity, and emerging opportunities Deliver regular reports and forecasts to senior leadership Contribute to strategic planning and executive-level decision-making Candidate Profile: Bachelor’s degree and a MSc in life sciences or related field Proven track record in sales within the life sciences or CRO industry. Strong understanding of drug discovery, clinical research, and laboratory services. Ability and desire to travel Full UK drivers’ license If this role isn’t suitable for you, please let us know if you can refer anyone – any recommendations are much appreciated! Planet Pharma offers a competitive referral scheme so you will be rewarded for your help! About Planet Pharma Planet Pharma is an American parented Employment Business/Agency that provides global staffing services with its head-quarters in Chicago and our EMEA regional office located in Central London. We have invested significantly in creating a robust international platform that enables us to work compliantly in 30 countries with a current network of 2500 active contractors globally as well as a very strong permanent / direct hire recruitment offering. Our specialist knowledge and close relationships with our clients and the wider industry really makes us unique in our field. Just recently we were recognized by FORBES as the 17th best professional staffing firm, and have won multiple awards from industry accredited bodies for our commitment to excellence and service delivery. We have extensive functional expertise including: Regulatory Affairs, Pharmacovigilance, QA, QC, Submissions experts, Clinical development, Quality, Biostatistics, and Medical Affairs / Writing. We are an equal opportunities Recruitment Business and Agency. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation or age.

Location: Stevenage, UK, GB

Posted Date: 11/5/2025