Freelance Business Development Consultant | CRO / CDMO | EU-based | Remote
We are seeking an experienced, revenue-driven Freelance Business Development Consultant to support the European commercial expansion of a leading international CRO/CDMO specialising in antibody discovery, biologics R&D, and preclinical development services.
This is a hands-on, client-facing role. You will own the full business development cycle from lead generation through to close, operating with a high degree of autonomy across the European market.
About the role
Key responsibilities include identifying, qualifying, and winning new business from EU biotech and pharma clients across Series A to C biotechs, academic spinouts, diagnostics companies, and mid-size pharma. You will build and manage a structured commercial pipeline across CRO discovery services, CDO development packages, and reagent and catalog solutions, and develop EU market-entry strategy, target account lists, and partner acquisition frameworks. You will build and maintain senior relationships with scientific and commercial decision-makers including CSO, VP Discovery, VP Biology, and Head of External Research, and represent the engagement at industry events and partnering conferences. Reporting against clear KPIs covering pipeline health, conversion rates, and closed revenue is expected throughout.
Requirements
Candidates must be EU-based with the ability to engage clients across EU and UK. A proven business development track record in CRO, CDMO, biologics, or drug discovery services is required, with demonstrated ability to close, not only to open conversations. Candidates should have a strong understanding of early-stage drug development workflows including antibody discovery and preclinical outsourcing, and be comfortable engaging both scientific buyers and commercial or finance stakeholders. The ability to operate in a self-directed, project-based model with a high degree of accountability is essential.
Preferred qualifications
Experience in consulting, or fractional commercial leadership is preferred. An existing network across Benelux, DACH, Nordics, or UK biotech ecosystems is a strong advantage, as is familiarity with antibody modalities including mAb, nanobody/VHH, bispecific, and ADC. Additional languages, particularly German, French, Dutch, Swedish, or Spanish, are welcomed. An MBA or advanced degree is preferred; a scientific or technical background is a plus.
Engagement details
Model: Fully remote, freelance. Project-based Statement of Work or part-time retainer.
Commitment: Approximately 0.5 FTE, flexible depending on pipeline activity.
Start: As soon as possible.
The right candidate will have the opportunity to become a recurring commercial partner across future engagements.
How to apply
Please send your CV and LinkedIn profile to [email protected].