Director, Business Development, R&d Services

Applied Pharmaceutical Innovation (API) brings life-saving research to the real world by helping life science innovators bridge the gap between academic research and commercial product development. We are driven, compassionate, and laser focused on making a dramatic positive impact with everything we undertake. 

When you join API, you are part of a rapidly growing team that is creating collaborative opportunities to commercialize Canadian life sciences discoveries, increasing the amount of commercial research and development in the country, and supporting Alberta as a key pillar in Canada’s life sciences sector. 

The Director, Business Development, R&D Services plays a crucial role in growing API's contract discovery research business.  As a key member of the Commercialization & Partnerships (C&P) team, the incumbent will leverage Sales, Marketing and Business acumen to promote and grow API's services revenue pipeline.   The Director is tasked with identifying new business opportunities, building long-term relationships with potential clients, and driving API's contract research business development strategy.

This role requires a business development professional with an established industry network and a proven track record of expanding customer base and delivering on business growth.  As a self-starter with an entrepreneurial mindset, the Director will collaborate with internal teams to map out opportunities, develop and execute the organization's business development plans.

Key Responsibilities, include but are not limited to:

Business Development

• Develop a comprehensive business development strategy that targets life science innovators and SMEs to maximize utilization of API's scientific and commercialization expertise.
• Execute the lead generation plan; set, monitor and achieve KPIs and metrics.
• Gain a deep understanding of prospective clients’ business needs and collaborate with the Director of Commercial Operations to research, develop and present proposals.
• Lead contract negotiations, due diligence and licensing activities.
• Propose and develop strategic partnerships.
• Identify and support API’s submissions to RFP opportunities.
• Conduct webinars and presentations to raise API’s brand and profile.
• Represent API at industry events and conferences.

Relationship Management

• Lead, build and maintain strong, long-lasting relationships with clients by understanding their needs and objectives.
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure high customer satisfaction and drive Sales growth.
• Expand API’s profile and reach of the company and its brands.
• Monitor competitors, market conditions, and industry trends, and adjust API Business Development as required.

Market Knowledge and Expertise

• Identify and pursue growth opportunities through market research and analysis.
• Assess business risks by analyzing financial, statistical, and economic data.
• Track emerging markets and trends, research and identify new market opportunities.
• Provide accurate sales forecasts and reporting to the management team.

People Management

• Manage and lead a team of business development professionals.

• Provide training, coaching and mentoring of C&P team members and API staff more broadly.

Qualifications - (Education, Certification, Degree, Skills, Knowledge, etc.)

Education

• Master’s degree in pharmaceutical sciences or related field (e.g., Chemistry, Biochemistry)
• PhD and Business Training, preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in Business Development and/or Sales in the life sciences sector (e.g., pharmaceuticals, biotech, medical devices) with a proven track record in a leadership role.
• Proven business development, sales, or marketing experience.
• Ability to work cross-functionally and influence without direct authority in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Personal Competencies

• Proactive, analytical, results-oriented, and creative.
• Superb relationship building and Sales process management.
• Results-driven and excellent planning, and prioritization skills.
• Effective communication and negotiation skills
• Detail-oriented and persuasive.
• Comfort with ambiguity and cultural differences.
• Excellent written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Effective in a fast-paced start-up environment.
• Leadership, management, and mentoring skills.
• Knowledge of product and sector.
• Financial and business acumen.

Working Conditions

• Required travel between Edmonton API sites.
• A flexible work schedule will be considered for this position.

Additional Required Documents to Support Application

• Applications submitted without a resume AND cover letter will not be reviewed.

Perks and Benefits at API

Comprehensive Health Coverage: At API, we prioritize the well-being of our employees. We offer a comprehensive health coverage plan. Our premiums are 100% covered, ensuring that you and your dependents receive the necessary healthcare support.

Payment in Lieu of Pension: API provides an additional 15% of your annual base salary, as an alternative to traditional pension benefits.

Professional Development Opportunities: We foster a culture of continuous learning and growth. API provides access to various professional development opportunities, including training programs, workshops, conferences, and certifications. We encourage employees to enhance their skills, broaden their knowledge, and stay updated with the latest advancements in the life sciences industry.

Collaborative and Inclusive Environment: At API, we believe in the power of collaboration and diversity. We foster an inclusive work environment that values and respects individuals from all backgrounds. We promote teamwork, open communication, and a supportive atmosphere where everyone's contributions are valued.

Generous Paid Time Off: We understand the importance of taking time off to recharge and maintain a healthy work-life balance. API offers a generous paid time off (PTO) policy that includes vacation days, medical/personal days, and holidays. We encourage our employees to prioritize their well-being and enjoy quality time away from work.

Green Transit Allowance: Employees based out of an office are eligible to enroll in our green transit program, which promotes the use of environmentally friendly modes of transportation. By participating in the program, you commit to making green transit your primary mode of transportation for at least 75% of your commute to and from work. Green transit includes walking, biking, carpooling, and public transportation.

How to Apply

Interested applicants must submit a resume and cover letter expressing their interest in the position and why they believe they are a strong candidate.

We appreciate the interest of all applicants but will only contact those selected for interviews.

If you have any questions about the application process or require accommodations during the hiring process, please contact careers@appliedpharma.ca.

Our team, clients, and stakeholders come from a variety of backgrounds. In recruiting for our team, we welcome the unique contributions that all people bring to the workplace in terms of varied lived experiences, education, culture, gender, race, sexual orientation, religious or ethnic background, neurodiversity, and cognitive and physical ability.

Before employment, successful candidates will be required to meet the requirements of a pre-employment screening, which includes background reference checks, educational credential verification, and criminal reference checks.

Application Deadline: January 13, 2024