Associate Business Development Director - Clinical Research, Japan

Own sponsor engagement and drive partnerships across JapanStrategic BD leadership role with APAC’s leading biotech-focused CROHigh-impact position with global exposureAbout the OrganisationHealthcare Professionals Group (HPG) is partnering with a high-performing, full-service Clinical Research CRO that has built a reputation as Asia-Pacific’s leading biotech specialist. With operations across the globe and a clear expansion mandate, this organisation delivers early-to-late phase clinical trials for biotech sponsors globally. Recognised for operational excellence and deep regional regulatory insight, the company continues to invest in senior talent to meet growing sponsor demand.About the OpportunityThis is a pivotal role for a commercially focused CRO Business Development leader ready to step into strategic client ownership. As Associate Business Development Director, you will lead sponsor engagement across Japan, convert early-phase opportunities into global clinical partnerships, and support cross-functional proposal and delivery alignment. Reporting into the Regional Business Development Head, you will engage pharma and biotech sponsors throughout the deal lifecycle and represent the organisation at key industry forums. The role offers a chance to step into a highly visible leadership position with one of the fastest-growing CROs in the region.DutiesLead business development strategy and execution across JapanEngage biotech clients to position the organisation’s global clinical capabilities, from pre-IND through pivotal studiesOversee proposal strategy, budget alignment, bid defence, and contract negotiation in collaboration with internal teamsBuild long-term client relationships with C-level stakeholders at regional and global biotech companiesRepresent the company at regional conferences and support brand positioning within the biotech ecosystemContribute to market intelligence, forecasting, and continuous improvement of BD processes and toolsSkills and ExperienceMinimum 4 years’ experience in CRO business development; full-service CRO background essentialProven success managing biotech accounts, winning new business, and delivering multi-country clinical development solutionsStrong understanding of Phase I–III trial models including regulatory pathways across JapanNative Japanese fluency essential; strong written and verbal English required for international sponsor and internal collaborationConfident communicator with exceptional negotiation, presentation, and proposal delivery skillsBased in Tokyo, with regional travel as neededBenefitsKey leadership role in Japan with exposure to global biotech sponsor networksHigh-growth company with a strong reputation and robust operational backingOpportunity to work closely with regional and global leadership across BD and deliveryCompetitive base salary, incentives, and long-term growth pathwayFlexible hybrid working with autonomy and regional influenceHow to ApplyTo explore this opportunity in confidence, please contact:Adrian McConchie, Director, HPG | amcconchie@hpgconnect.com | +61 488 807 351Rohan Lallbeeharry, Senior Recruitment Consultant, HPG | rlallbeeharry@hpgconnect.com | +61 485 860 660