Sr. Business Development Manager

Avantor is looking for a commercially astute Business Development Manager (EU) to drive new business growth and expand strategic accounts across Europe, with a primary focus on selling and positioning VWR Services to both new and existing customers. This role leads the development and execution of complex sales strategies aligned with client and company long-term goals, while shaping the strategic direction and sustained success of key accounts at a regional or global level.

The position requires proactively identifying high-value opportunities for growth, expansion, and cross-selling, positioning the company as a trusted partner. The role also provides thought leadership, contributes to best practices, and collaborates with executive leadership to enhance the overall sales approach, while building strong relationships with senior client stakeholders to influence strategic decisions and drive mutual growth.

·       Provide thought leadership and collaborate with executive leadership to enhance sales strategies and go-to-market approaches for VWR Services

·       Shape the strategic direction for VWR Services and long-term success of major accounts across the EU region.

·       Identify and pursue high-value opportunities for account growth, expansion, and cross-selling;  maintain a strong, accurate pipeline.

·       Drive VWR Services business growth by acquiring new customers and expanding service offerings within existing strategic accounts.

·       Establish and maintain strong relationships with senior decision-makers, influencing strategic business outcomes.

·       Engage senior stakeholders, acting as a trusted advisor to influence strategic decisions.

·       Apply LEAN methodologies to assess client processes and design value-driven solutions.

·       Lead RFI/RFQ responses, proposals, and negotiations to secure wins.

·       Deliver compelling presentations and business cases to diverse stakeholders.

·       Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and regulatory requirements (GxP, EHS).

·       Initiate and manage implementation projects; support onboarding and training of local teams.

·       May direct, mentor, or guide the activities of other team members.

Qualifications & Experience

·       Bachelor’s degree (scientific or business discipline preferred).

·       Proven success in business development within life sciences, laboratory, or related industries.

·       Strong consultative selling and process improvement (LEAN) experience.

·       Demonstrated ability to manage complex sales cycles and deliver revenue growth.

·       Project management capability and experience working in matrixed organizations.

·       Solid understanding of scientific operations, GxP, and EHS standards.

·       Strategic and commercial acumen

·       Executive communication and influencing skills

·       Relationship building and stakeholder management

·       Analytical thinking and problem solving

·       Negotiation and closing skills

·       Results-driven, proactive mindset

·       Willingness to travel

·       Fluent in English; additional languages are an advantage.

Success Measures

·       New business revenue and pipeline growth

·       Account expansion and retention

·       Win rate on strategic opportunities

·       Client satisfaction and project execution effectiveness

What we offer

• Competitive salary plus bonus
• Pension scheme
• Private medical and dental care
• An extra day off for your birthday
• Stable, long‑term employment with global operational impact

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Disclaimer:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position. Avantor is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Why Avantor?

Dare to go further in your career. Join our global team of 14,000+ associates whose passion for discovery and determination to overcome challenges relentlessly advances life-changing science.
 
The work we do changes people's lives for the better. It brings new patient treatments and therapies to market, giving a cancer survivor the chance to walk his daughter down the aisle. It enables medical devices that help a little boy hear his mom's voice for the first time. Outcomes such as these create unlimited opportunities for you to contribute your talents, learn new skills and grow your career at Avantor.
 
We are committed to helping you on this journey through our diverse, equitable and inclusive culture which includes learning experiences to support your career growth and success. At Avantor, dare to go further and see how the impact of your contributions set science in motion to create a better world. Apply today!

EEO Statement:

We are an Equal Employment/Affirmative Action employer and VEVRAA Federal Contractor. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/province, or local law.

If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us by email at [email protected] and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Requests for accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address.

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