Founded in Switzerland, Chaberton Professionals is the Management Recruitment division of Chaberton Partners, specializing in the search and selection of middle and senior management profiles. For the past eight years, we have reinforced our Swiss presence with key offices in Lugano, Zurich, Geneva, Lausanne, and Bern, supported by our team of 230 experienced Consultants and Board Members.
For our client, we are currently looking for a Director of Business Development and Operations (AI Products & Services)
THE CLIENT
Our client is a tech-bio startup that develops cutting-edge AI methods in genome, protein and large language models to accelerate drug discovery and translational medicine. Due to their rapid growth they are looking to expand their team in Basel, Zurich and Lausanne.
YOUR ROLE:
As the Director of Business Development and Operations, you will be a critical member of the leadership team, reporting directly to the CEO. This is a hands-on, entrepreneurial role that requires a self-starter. You will be responsible for identifying, developing, and implementing revenue streams for innovative AI-driven solutions. This includes exploring diverse funding streams and partnerships that align with our client’s mission to broaden access to scientific tools.
The successful candidate must have a deep understanding of the biopharma landscape and the business of science, with direct experience in immunology and drug discovery being a major advantage. This role is as much about strategic communication, public relations, and brand-building as it is about business development, requiring you to champion our vision to a diverse array of stakeholders.
YOUR TASKS:
- Business Strategy and Development: Lead the conceptualization, development, and commercialization strategies for AI-powered solutions that enhance scientific reasoning and improve the drug discovery method. Conduct competitive analysis and evaluate emerging AI technologies and their potential application in scientific research.
- Revenue Generation and Business Modeling: Actively pursue and secure revenue streams through a variety of channels, including direct sales, strategic partnerships, and grant funding. Develop innovative and sustainable business models for AI tools that facilitate the use of the client’s products. This role demands a proactive approach to turn potential opportunities into concrete agreements.
- Public Relations, Branding, and Communication: Champion the client’s brand and vision to the global scientific community, investors, and the general public. You will be responsible for designing and executing comprehensive communication strategies, including compelling visuals and narratives, to articulate the value proposition of AI solutions. You will support the Senior Management in presenting at scientific conferences, technology forums, and stakeholder presentations.
- Government and Academic Liaison: Identify, negotiate, and secure strategic partnerships with academic institutions, research funders, and other organizations. Communicate effectively with funding bodies and philanthropic organizations to secure support, emphasizing the transformative impact of the client’s work on global scientific capacity and human health. Your role is crucial in building and maintaining relationships with key opinion leaders and government agencies, acting as a voice for the company.
- Business Planning and Operations: Develop detailed business plans, including financial projections and operational roadmaps.
REQUIREMENTS
- Education: A degree in Business Administration, Science, Engineering, or a related field is required.
- Biopharma Expertise: Several years of business development and operations experience with a strong focus on the biotechnology and biomedical research landscape is essential. Direct experience in immunology and drug discovery is a significant advantage.
- Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional communication skills are a must, with a proven ability to articulate complex technical and business concepts to diverse audiences. Strong negotiation and relationship-building abilities are critical for success in this role.
- Strategic and Entrepreneurial Mindset: A track record of strategic thinking, with the resilience to pursue opportunities and turn them into successful outcomes. Must thrive in a fast-paced, ambiguous startup environment and be a self-motivated, proactive individual.
- AI/Digital Transformation: A solid understanding of AI/ML concepts and their practical applications in scientific and technical organizations is necessary.
WHAT OUR CLIENT OFFERS :
- Competitive salary package aligned with experience
- Stock options to share in the long-term success of the company.
- Opportunity to work at the cutting edge of scientific AI, driving breakthroughs in immunology, biotechnology, and drug discovery.
- A fast-paced, product-driven startup environment where ambitious ideas and rapid iteration shape the future of science and medicine.
Location : This position is based out of our offices in Basel, Lausanne, and Zurich, and requires weekly travel within Switzerland to maintain and grow key relationships.
Type for position : Permanent