Business Development Director/Sr. Director (Small Molecule API)-in Boston

Next City; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

Porton is seeking a senior Business Development leader in the Greater Boston area to drive CMC-focused BD efforts with Biotech & Biopharma clients. The role spans from Director to Sr.

Director, depending on background, and requires deep knowledge of CDMO/CRO services and a proven sales track record. Responsibilities include shaping commercial strategy, expanding the pipeline, nurturing key relationships, and leading proposals and negotiations to secure contracts while aligning with company

Qualifications

• Prior experience in CMC-related business development or activities, with a solid understanding of the CMC process and general knowledge of APIs.

Responsibilities

• Identify, develop, and execute new business opportunities with Biotech & Biopharma companies seeking CDMO/CRO services.

Skills

CMC knowledge

Biotech BD sales

Networking

Proposal negotiation

CRM & pipeline management

Presentation skills

Self‑driven

Goal‑oriented

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher in Chemistry, Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related field

PhD in organic chemistry preferred

Job description

Position Profile:

Position Grade: The position level varies from Director to Sr. Director, determined by the candidate's background and qualification.

Work Location: Greater Boston area or elsewhere within Massachusetts.

Must Haves:

• Prior experience in CMC-related business development or activities, with a solid understanding of the CMC process and general knowledge of APIs.
• Experience in business development within the small molecule sector of CDMO/Biotech & Biopharma companies.
• Established network of key contacts in CMC/Sourcing among clients, with demonstrated ability to nurture client relationships and effectively secure sales orders.
• Self-driven, proactive, and highly goal-oriented, with the ability to independently prioritize, take ownership, and continuously drive results.

Responsibilities:

1. Business Development & Market Expansion

• Identify, develop, and execute new business opportunities with Biotech & Biopharma companies seeking CDMO/CRO services.
• Develop and manage a strong sales pipeline by identifying potential customers, qualifying opportunities, and driving projects from initial engagement through contract execution.
• Expand Porton’s market presence and brand recognition through industry networking, customer engagement, conferences, and business development activities.
• Represent the company at industry events, customer meetings, and business forums to promote Porton’s capabilities and collect market intelligence.

2. Strategic Customer Relationship Management

• Develop a long-term, trusted relationships with key customers and strategic partners. Understand customers’ funding status, and pipeline progress to identify growth opportunities and drive sustainable business growth.
• Develop a deep understanding of customer needs, challenges, and project requirements to deliver tailored solutions and enhance customer experience.
• Provide voice-of-customer insights to internal teams and continuously contribute market feedback to strengthen Porton’s value proposition.
• Partner with scientific & project delivery teams and internal functions to ensure successful business transition and delivery aligned with customer expectations and company profitability goals.

3. Commercial Strategy & Business Execution

• Lead commercial discussions, including proposal development, pricing strategy, and negotiation, ensuring accurate, competitive, and timely proposals.
• Manage business performance, including revenue targets, budget planning, and expense strategy, to support overall business objectives.
• Ensure client projects are executed in accordance with contractual commitments and customer expectations.

4. Market Intelligence & Competitive Strategy

• Conduct market research and competitive analysis to understand industry trends, customer needs, competitor capabilities, pricing strategies, and market positioning.
• Translate market insights into actionable business strategies to enhance Porton’s competitive advantage and identify new growth opportunities.
• Monitor industry developments and emerging opportunities within the Biotech & Biopharma markets.

5. Marketing & Pipeline Management

• Collaborate with Marketing teams to develop campaigns, analyze market trends, and optimize lead generation activities.
• Utilize CRM systems to accurately manage and track leads, customer interactions, opportunities, proposals, business development activities, and project pipelines.
• Maintain accurate business forecasts and provide regular updates on pipeline status, opportunities, and market developments.

Knowledge & Skills:

• Good Knowledge of CMC, cGMP, API, and the drug development process for small molecules.
• Proven track record in selling products or services, with exposure to a variety of sales techniques applicable to biotech or biopharma clients.
• Excellent presentation and communication skills with the ability to clearly and effectively share information about products or services with a range of external parties including prospective customers, partners, and vendors.
• Customer dedication to relentlessly seek and distill solutions from complexity.
• Demonstrates sharp intellectual capabilities with strong skills in analysis, synthesis, comprehension, and critical thinking.
• Mindful listener and communicator (written and oral) with a high degree of affinity.
• Highly resilient, with the ability to withstand pressure and bounce back from challenges.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Chemistry, Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field. A PhD degree in organic chemistry is preferred.
• At least 10 years of business development experience in the CDMO/CRO industry.
• Ideally have an existing solid client network, positive relationships, and knowledge of agreement execution.
• Must demonstrate exceptional hunting abilities including business acumen, political astuteness, influencing/negotiations, decision-making ability, conflict resolution, and positive motivation and courage.