Vice President of Business Development

CenExel

About The Position

CenExel is a leading nationwide clinical research site and patient network serving the life sciences industry. Leading in CNS and early phase studies, our 18 science-led Centers of Excellence deliver the right patients, at the right time, in the right place. Recently acquired by BayPine Capital Partners, our research sites provide unparalleled medical and scientific support in the design and execution of clinical trials. Our world-class PIs, advanced patient engagement strategies, premium data analytics, and integrated operations optimize every step of the clinical trial process. Along with an exceptional work environment that promotes teamwork, positive leadership, and optimal work-life balance, CenExel Clinical Research also provides highly competitive compensation and a generous benefits package to full time employees after 30 days of employment including Health Insurance, Dental, Vision, LTD, STD, Life Ins, and 401k. Job Summary: Reporting to the Chief Commercial Officer, the Vice President of Business Development will lead CenExel’s Biotech Business Development function while also serving as an individual contributor. This leader will be responsible for developing and driving strategic sponsor/CRO relationships, overseeing Business Development team performance, and contributing directly to annual revenue growth. The VP will ensure alignment with CenExel’s network-wide sales goals, foster cross-functional collaboration, and maintain consistent use of CRM and operational systems to optimize visibility, forecasting, and execution.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree (MBA, MS) preferred.
8+ years of Business Development or Clinical Research sales experience, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
Proven success selling clinical trial or CRO services.
Demonstrated experience leading high-performing sales teams.
Strong communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
Ability to build trusted sponsor/CRO relationships and manage complex accounts.
Proficiency with CRM systems and data-driven decision-making.
Ability to manage competing priorities and perform under pressure.
Understanding of Phase I–IV clinical trial processes.
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel up to 20%.
Must be able to effectively communicate verbally and in writing.

Responsibilities

Lead, mentor, and develop the Business Development team, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and high performance.
Achieve annual sales targets both individually and through team leadership.
Build and execute strategic account plans for key sponsors and CROs.
Develop new sponsor relationships and expand existing partnerships.
Promote CenExel’s network of clinical trial sites and capabilities.
Ensure accurate CRM usage across the BD team; maintain pipeline visibility and forecasting discipline.
Partner with Operations, Budgets & Contracts, and Executive Leadership to drive cross-functional alignment.
Oversee sponsor/CRO visit coordination and represent CenExel at industry conferences.
Ensure exceptional client experience and proactive issue resolution.
Maintain up-to-date market knowledge and competitive intelligence.
Participate in strategic planning for network growth and service expansion.
Oversee onboarding, training, and development of new Business Development team members to ensure rapid and effective ramp-up.
Provide continuous coaching and mentorship to BD Directors and Managers, including structured pipeline reviews and skills development.
Establish clear performance expectations, KPIs, and accountability mechanisms for the BD team.
Strengthen alignment between Business Development, Operations, Feasibility, Budgets & Contracts, Marketing, and site leadership.
Standardize BD best practices, communication workflows, and processes across CenExel’s network.
Lead CRM adoption and ensure consistent, accurate data entry across the BD team.
Oversee monthly and quarterly forecasting in partnership with Sales Operations and BI.
Supports and ensures strictest adherence to best practices, FDA Code of Federal Regulations, ICH (International Conference on Harmonization), GCP (Good Clinical Practices), CenExel standard operating procedures, site working Practices, protocol, and company guidelines and policies.
Assumes other duties and responsibilities as assigned. The above responsibilities are a general description of the level and nature of the work assigned to this classification and are not to be considered as all inclusive.