Director, Pharma Business Development USA

Waiv, a spin‑out of Owkin, catalyzes precision medicine with clinical‑grade, AI‑powered tests that accelerate biomarker discovery, outcome prediction, and treatment‑response assessment across oncology. Built on over seven years of validated medical‑AI innovation and one of Europe’s largest multi‑institutional data networks, Waiv delivers precise, accurate, and fast analyses that support treatment decisions.

About the role

The Director, Pharma Business Development will grow our business with pharmaceutical companies by generating new leads, securing strategic partnerships, managing key accounts, and contributing to the go‑to‑market strategy of the company, implementing innovative digital pathology diagnostics that improve clinical decision‑making and patient outcomes.

The director will directly manage a portfolio of clients, identify and close new business opportunities, and promote Waiv’s advanced AI/machine‑learning technology to enhance biomarker discovery, clinical trials, market access, and commercial efforts in pharma. The role requires intimate cross‑team collaboration with Data, R&D, Product, Strategy, Pathology, Medical, Legal and regulatory teams.

• Drive revenue growth by engaging major pharmaceutical clients across multiple stakeholder groups including C‑Suite executives, therapeutic leadership, R&D and data science, translational research & biomarker, precision medicine, diagnostic/companion diagnostic, and procurement teams.
• Secure strategic new business while growing existing accounts, with a strong emphasis on renewable long‑term engagements, through leading proposals and managing contracting processes.
• Engage the market with Waiv’s AI and machine‑learning capabilities to discover new digital pathology biomarkers, develop new AI diagnostic tools that impact clinical trial challenges, support CDx/IVD strategies and identify patients in clinical routine.
• Significantly contribute to scaling the company and implementing world‑class business development solutions. Support market positioning and go‑to‑market strategy, providing competitive and market intelligence.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally alongside Waiv’s teams to ensure alignment on client needs and market positioning, ensuring delivery of world‑class digital pathology diagnostics.
• Cultivate Waiv’s reputation as a pioneer in AI and digital pathology diagnostics within the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors through influential thought leadership.

The position involves regular international travel to meet clients, attend conferences and congresses, and participate in team meetings in France. It can be based in Paris, France or remotely in France, UK or US Eastern Time Zone (ideally North‑East, DC to Boston).

About you

• A proven track record in business development and account management within the pharmaceutical, biotech, or diagnostic sectors, with significant experience in high‑value Diagnostic and CDx collaborations.
• Demonstrated capabilities in driving revenue growth and closing high‑value, complex Diagnostics/CDx, clinical trials, and/or service collaborations with the pharmaceutical industry.
• Expertise in Pharma & Diagnostics – deep understanding of drug development, clinical trials, and companion diagnostic (CDx) or in‑vitro diagnostic (IVD) solutions, especially within the context of AI and machine learning.
• A significant and relevant network across R&D/Precision Medicine/Diagnostic pharmaceutical industry and the ability to develop consultative relationships.
• A University Degree with a strong scientific and business background (business school or MBA), preferably a Masters/PhD in Pharmacy, Medicine, Molecular Biology, Epidemiology, HEOR, Genetics or Oncology.
• Personal attributes that enable thriving in a fast‑paced, entrepreneurial environment: proactivity, independence, tenacity, adaptability, a sense of humor, integrity, and professionalism.
• Excellent level of English language skills, including strong verbal communication and writing abilities for sales, business and internal meetings, and complex negotiations.
• Fascination for innovative research and artificial intelligence and its future role in clinical diagnosis.
• Experience in a PE or VC‑backed start‑up environment is desirable.

Pay Transparency and Benefits

Waiv offers a competitive total compensation package. Salary indications and specific benefits are primarily for the US market. Compensation varies by qualifications, skills, and experience. OTE (On‑Target Earnings): $160,000 - $230,000 (base salary + performance‑based bonus). Equity options may be provided. Comprehensive benefits include health insurance (individual & family), 401(k) retirement plan, and generous paid time off (35 days annually plus state and federal holidays). Flexible spending accounts support health and financial well‑being.

Legal

Waiv is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, color, religion, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.