Mantell Associates is partnered with a leading CDMO specializing in the development and manufacturing of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) for global pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies. With strong technical capabilities and an expanding international presence, they are seeking an experienced Senior Business Development Director to drive commercial growth across European markets.
This role will focus on developing strategic partnerships with pharmaceutical and biotech clients while expanding the company’s API manufacturing services across key accounts. Candidates must be based in Italy and fluent in Italian.
Senior Business Development Director - Responsibilities:
* Develop and execute strategic business development initiatives to expand the company’s API CDMO services across Europe
* Identify and secure new commercial opportunities with pharmaceutical and biotechnology clients requiring API development and manufacturing support
* Manage complex sales cycles from lead generation through proposal development, negotiation, and contract execution
* Build long-term relationships with senior stakeholders across R&D, procurement, and manufacturing teams within client organizations
* Collaborate with internal technical, regulatory, and project management teams to align commercial strategy with operational capabilities
* Represent the organization at industry conferences, networking events, and client meetings across Europe
* Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and industry developments within the API manufacturing sector
* Support the development of commercial strategies to strengthen the company’s position within the global CDMO market
Senior Business Development Director - Requirements:
* Significant experience in business development or strategic sales within the pharmaceutical CDMO sector, with a strong focus on API manufacturing
* Proven track record of generating new business and closing complex service agreements with pharmaceutical and biotech companies
* Strong understanding of API development, scale-up, and commercial manufacturing processes
* Established industry network within pharmaceutical and biotech organizations across Europe
* Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills
* Fluent Italian and English language skills are essential
* Candidates must be based in Italy and able to travel internationally as required
This is a strong opportunity to join a well-established API CDMO and play a key role in expanding their commercial footprint and developing long-term strategic partnerships within the global pharmaceutical industry.
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.