Mantell Associates is partnered with a rapidly expanding AI‑powered small molecule drug discovery CRO based in Cambridge, who is seeking a Business Development Director to lead and scale commercial growth globally. This is a rare opportunity to shape the go‑to‑market strategy for a platform that combines cutting‑edge machine learning with deep chemistry expertise to accelerate discovery for biotech and pharmaceutical partners. Business Development Director - Responsibilities: Developing and executing the commercial strategy to achieve ambitious growth targets Identifying, qualifying, and closing new business opportunities across biotech, pharma, and research organisations Building and nurturing long‑term relationships with senior scientific and commercial stakeholders Clearly articulating the value proposition of the company’s AI‑enabled discovery services Collaborating with internal scientific, delivery, and leadership teams to support proposal development and contract negotiation Attending and representing the company at key scientific and industry conferences Business Development Director - Requirements: Significant experience (typically 10 years) in business development, sales or commercial leadership within life sciences, drug discovery services, CROs, or technology platforms A strong track record of selling scientific services or technology into biotech and pharmaceutical organisations Commercial acumen with the ability to manage complex sales cycles and close high‑value deals Excellent communication skills, with the ability to engage and influence senior decision‑makers A scientific understanding of early drug discovery, computational platforms, or AI/ML technologies (preferred but not essential) An entrepreneurial mindset, proactive approach, and a desire to build and scale commercial functions Mantell Associates is a specialist Pharmaceutical and Life Science headhunting firm. For more information on this opportunity, contact us at 44 (0)20 3854 7700.