Director of Business Development, Gene and Cell Therapy

Cincinnati Children's

7d•$150,000 - $201,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Applied Gene and Cell Therapy Center (AGCTC) is a leading clinical stage center focused on advancing innovative gene and cell therapies from research through clinical translation and manufacturing. AGCTC combines expertise in translational science, process development, analytics, regulatory strategy, and GMP manufacturing to accelerate next-generation therapies for patients with serious diseases. In addition to its research and clinical capabilities, AGCTC provides industry standards CDMO services, supporting process development, tech transfer, GMP manufacturing, analytical development, and quality systems for academic and industry partners. With state-of-the-art infrastructure and a highly collaborative environment, AGCTC offers an exciting opportunity for professionals passionate about shaping the future of advanced therapies. The Director will act as a primary engine for growth at Cincinnati Children’s Applied Gene and Cell Therapy Center (AGCTC). This is a high-impact role focused on securing strategic partnerships with biotech and pharmaceutical companies in the Cell and Gene Therapy (CGT) space. You aren't just selling "capacity"; you are selling complex technical solutions, scientific trust, and a roadmap to commercialization for breakthrough therapies (CAR-T, Gene Editing, Viral Vectors, etc.). You will identify market trends, source new clinical-stage assets, and negotiate multi-million-dollar MSAs (Master Service Agreements).

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in a related field.
10+ years related experience primarily in Business Development and/or Value Proposition/Product Development Management.
Business development experience is in Gene and Cell Therapy or related life sciences.
Strongly prefer 5 years in Business Development or Sales within the CDMO or Life Sciences services sector.
In either Business Development or Sales within the Cell and Gene Therapy, CDMO or a Life Sciences Services Sector, has 5+ years leading teams (direct and cross-functional) in either: medical device/equipment/service company; healthcare consulting; or complex medical center medical device/equipment/service company; healthcare consulting; or complex medical center
A proven track record of closing high-value contracts and building a pipeline from scratch.
Experience leading new product development and launch in a matrix organization.
Product development as it relates to the development of strategic partnerships with biotech and pharmaceutical companies in the Cell and Gene Therapy (CGT) space.
Experience navigating complex legal and financial terms in MSAs and Work Orders.
A deep understanding of the Cell and Gene Therapy manufacturing lifecycle, including viral vector production, cell processing, and analytical requirements.
Must be able to travel up to 30% of the time. Additional time may be spent traveling internationally.

Nice To Haves

Advance degree is highly preferred to navigate the complex technical and financial nuances of Cell and Gene Therapy deals.
Annualized Contract Value (ACV) and Total Contract Value (TCV).
Conversion rate from Lead to Signed Proposal.
Accuracy of sales forecasting and CRM (Salesforce) management.
Established network of C-suite and CMC-level contacts within the cell and gene therapy ecosystem.
Ability to build rapport quickly in a highly technical environment.

Responsibilities

Build a new business development function from the ground up, including hiring, and talent development.
Stay ahead of the curve on CDMO pricing, capacity trends, and emerging technologies (e.g., closed-system manufacturing, non-viral delivery).
Provide "voice of the customer" feedback to the marketing team to refine value propositions and sales collateral.
Scout the global biotech landscape to identify companies with CGT assets in pre-clinical through Phase III stages.
Lead the entire sales cycle from initial outreach and RFPs (Request for Proposals) to site visits and works with contract team for the final execution.
Develop and execute a regional or global business plan to meet or exceed annual booking targets.
Act as a bridge between the client’s CMC (Chemistry, Manufacturing, and Controls) needs and our internal technical capabilities.
Represent the organization at major industry conferences (e.g., ASGCT, SITC, Ash et al).
Partner with key collaborators to ensure current clients are satisfied and look for opportunities to expand existing programs.