Business Development Specialist
Business Development Specialist – United StatesIndustry: Biotechnology / Contract Research Organization (CRO) / Life Sciences ServicesLocation: Portland, Oregon (United States)Employment Type: Full-Time, PermanentTravel: Significant travel across the United StatesSalary Range: $90,000 – $120,000 USDAbout the CompanyOur client, part of an international biosciences group, is a specialized Contract Research Organization (CRO) focused on delivering advanced multi-omics solutions, with deep expertise in proteomics, genomics, and biomarker science.As part of a global player in biosciences, headquartered in France, the group supports thousands of international clients in their search for innovative therapies. The group offers an integrated range covering the entire research continuum, from compound discovery to clinical phases. As one of the last European family-owned groups in the sector, it derives its strength from independence and long-term vision.The organization partners with pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, and academic institutions to support biomarker discovery and validation, translational research, clinical development programs, and precision medicine initiatives.The organization differentiates itself through a highly scientific and customized approach. Rather than relying solely on standardized kits or predefined workflows, it designs and executes tailored analytical strategies, integrating multiple omics technologies to address complex biological and clinical questions.Core capabilities include high-dimensional proteomic and genomic analyses, biomarker identification and validation across clinical phases, bioanalytical testing, assay validation, advanced data analysis, and sample storage and management (biobanking).The organization has established a strong reputation for scientific rigor, flexibility, and cost-effective execution in complex programs, particularly within the United States market, which represents a significant and growing portion of its business.Position OverviewOur client is seeking a Business Development Representative – United States to support and accelerate the expansion of its commercial presence across the US market.This role requires a combination of scientific credibility, business development, and relationship-driven sales execution. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing new business opportunities, expanding key client relationships, and positioning the organization as a trusted scientific partner in multi-omics and biomarker-driven programs.The position operates within a collaborative, international structure and requires close coordination with scientific, operational, and leadership teams based in Europe. The Group is also aiming at performing certain operational activities in the USA at a group site based in Portland.Key ResponsibilitiesBusiness Development and Sales ExecutionIdentify, develop, and convert new business opportunities across pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and academic clients in the United States with a focus on the pharmaceutical sector.Lead the full sales cycle, including initial engagement, scientific discussions, proposal development, contract negotiation, and deal closingBuild and maintain long-term relationships with key stakeholders in clinical development, translational research, and biomarker programsContribute to the growth of high-value accounts, including multi-year engagementsEnsure profitable and sustainable growth.Scientific Engagement and Value PropositionEngage credibly with clients on proteomics, genomics, biomarker discovery, and multi-omics strategiesTranslate complex scientific capabilities into clear and differentiated value propositionsCollaborate closely with scientific and bioinformatics teams to develop customized solutionsSupport discussions related to study design, analytical strategy, and data interpretationMarket DevelopmentContribute to the expansion of the organization’s presence in the United States across precision medicine, translational research, and biomarker-driven programsProvide market insights to support service development and commercial positioningRepresent the company at scientific conferences, industry events, and partnering meetingsTeam CollaborationWork closely with two US-based business development team members, each focused on different therapeutic areasCollaborate with European leadership and cross-functional teams to ensure alignment between commercial activities and operational delivery in Europe and in the USA.Operate effectively within a distributed, international team environmentCandidate ProfileScientific and Technical BackgroundAdvanced degree (PhD, MSc, PharmD or equivalent experience) in molecular biology, proteomics, genomics, or a related life sciences fieldStrong understanding of proteomics platforms, genomic technologies (including NGS), biomarker development, and clinical testing requirements (Phases I–III)Professional ExperienceApproximately 2-5 years of experience in business development, scientific sales, or commercial roles within CROs, biotechnology companies, or life sciences service providersDemonstrated ability to manage complex sales processes and contribute to the acquisition of mid- to high-value contractsExperience engaging with pharmaceutical and biotech clients in both scientific and commercial contextsNetworks within the pharmaceutical sectorSkills and AttributesStrong communication skills with the ability to engage scientific and business stakeholdersCommercially driven with a proactive and results-oriented mindsetAutonomous and comfortable working in a geographically distributed environmentTeam-oriented with strong collaboration skillsWillingness to travel regularly across the United StatesAdditional InformationOpportunity to contribute to the growth of the organization in the United States marketExposure to complex and high-impact projects in biomarker development and multi-omicsParticipation in a collaborative, science-driven, and internationally connected organization