Who sets the standards, to ensure that anything that can be measured is done so with consistency and reliability? We do. Through our vital research, the National Physical Laboratory is helping support scientific and commercial innovations, international trade, environmental protection and health and well-being. As a Business Development Manager, you’ll help existing and potential customers understand how our range of products and services can make a difference. It’s a good feeling. At NPL, we touch ordinary lives in extraordinary ways, and you could too.

We know how exceptional our products and services are. What we need you to do, is learn everything there is to know about the portfolio of products and services that you’ll look after, then pass that knowledge along too. We don’t sell for selling’s sake. We listen. Then we advise and consult as to the best possible solution. It’s this level of customer focus and trusted council that delivers sales and growth. In addition, you’ll act as a champion for the Bid Governance process. No matter what you’re working on, you’ll keep track on your progress and ensure you epitomise best practice across all aspects of the management of the client relationship. Thanks to the relationships you build, even more people around the UK, and potentially the world, will feel the benefit of your efforts.

You will take ownership of a defined portfolio within NPL’s Life Sciences and Health activities with a focus on developing collaborations with new and existing partners within the UK pharmaceutical industry.

NPL is helping the UK continue to be a world leader in the translation of life sciences research, accelerating access to new diagnosis and treatment techniques, and supporting the rapid adoption of advanced healthcare technologies into the NHS. We work with our partners to provide the required measurement infrastructure to usher in the next technology revolution built on biology whilst tackling some of the world’s biggest health challenges, from reducing drug attrition rates in drug development, to diagnosing and treating cancer and dementia much earlier, to the implementation of medical and digital health technologies to improve patient outcomes (Health - NPL).

‘’We are now working in a hybrid way, with a mix of remote and office working. We strive to offer a great work life balance - if you are looking for full time, part time or flexible options, we will try to make this work where business possible. This will be dependent on the kind of role you do and part of the business you work in’’ 

We are looking for talented Business Development professionals with a strong commercial acumen, and experience of the UK life science sector, who is looking for an exciting role as part of a wider strategically focused team helping NPL make a real difference through high quality science addressing key challenges. Specifically, you will:

• Take ownership of a defined portfolio within NPL’s Life Sciences and Health activities focused on the pharmaceutical industry
• Engage across a range of industrial, regulatory, academic, healthcare system and governmental organisations to identify and develop new and exciting propositions and commercial opportunities.
• Formulate and lead strategic collaborations and key accounts, generate and develop collaborative R&D opportunities and win commercial contracts against an annual target.
• Ensure NPL’s mission, strategy and plans are articulated and understood, becoming a recognised and respected face of NPL within the life sciences and health sector, attending critical external meetings and workshops on behalf of the laboratory.

Skills and Experience

• Your business acumen will be paramount, alongside the ability to think strategically and show visionary flair and, of course, a passion for science.
• Strong technical awareness will be essential along with a relevant Degree or equivalent professional qualification - preferably in a life science related discipline.
• Experience of working in either the pharmaceutical, medical technologies or biotechnology industry sectors would be desirable.
• Experience of working to deadlines and targets, managing key accounts, successful project sales and joint grant applications in the target sector would be desirable.
• Inquisitive, confident and motivated to manage and connect with a complex range of stakeholders at all levels. You will be collaborative, with strong demonstrable communication and negotiation skills.

We actively recruit citizens of all backgrounds, but the nature of our work in specific departments means that nationality, residency and security requirements can be more tightly defined than others. You will be asked about this throughout the recruitment process. To work at NPL, you will need to obtain BPSS security clearance. 

Please note: Applications will be reviewed, and interviews conducted throughout the duration of this advert therefore we may at any time bring the closing date forward. We encourage all interested applicants to apply as soon as practical.