Position Summary
We are seeking a strategic and scientifically driven Director of Business Development & Licensing (BD&L) to join our European BD team, focusing on Search & Evaluation (S&E) of external innovation in non-oncology therapeutic areas, with an emphasis on Central Nervous System (CNS) and immunology. This role plays a pivotal part in identifying and assessing external partnering opportunities that align with our global R&D and commercial objectives. You will work cross-functionally with scientific, commercial, legal, and corporate strategy colleagues, and report directly to the Head of BD & Licensing, EU.
Key Responsibilities
* Search & Evaluation (S&E):
* Proactively identify and evaluate licensing and collaboration opportunities in CNS and immunology, as well as other non-oncology areas of strategic interest.
* Conduct rigorous scientific, clinical, and strategic assessments of early- to late-stage assets, platforms, and technologies.
* Maintain a deep understanding of external innovation and emerging biotech pipelines across Europe and other key territories.
* Partnership Development:
* Lead initial outreach and relationship-building with prospective partners, including biotech companies, academic institutions, and VCs.
* Represent the company at partnering meetings, scientific congresses, and other external forums.
* Due Diligence & Transaction Support:
* Collaborate with cross-functional teams to lead or support due diligence activities.
* Prepare and present opportunity summaries, investment cases, and recommendation memos to internal governance committees.
* Support transaction negotiation in collaboration with legal, finance, and senior BD leadership.
* Cross-functional Coordination:
* Liaise with internal stakeholders (R&D, commercial, regulatory, IP, finance, etc.) to align scientific and business perspectives.
* Ensure seamless handoff and integration of licensed assets with internal project teams post-deal.
Qualifications & Experience
* Advanced degree in life sciences (PhD, PharmD or MD). An MBA or equivalent business training is a plus.
* 8–12 years of relevant experience in biopharmaceutical business development, licensing, or strategic partnering, ideally with exposure to CNS and/or immunology.
* Deep scientific understanding of non-oncology therapeutic areas, with an ability to critically assess data and strategic fit.
* Demonstrated track record in evaluating and/or closing deals, collaborations, or strategic partnerships.
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and align cross-functional teams.
* Fluent in English; European languages (e.g., French, German) are a plus.