ROLE OVERVIEW
The Director, Business Operations & Strategy, at our site, BioLabs San Diego, located in San Diego, CA manages strategic and financial growth, as well as day-to-day operations, of the new site. This includes (1) initiating new and fostering existing relationships with key stakeholders in the greater San Diego biotech ecosystem, (2) building a strong pipeline of prospective resident life science startup companies, and (3) overseeing the site's daily operations, finances, and team.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Ecosystem Engagement & Business Development
- Initiate and grow relationships with key stakeholders in the greater San Diego area, including universities, research institutes, tech transfer offices, economic development agencies, trade groups, investors, incubators, accelerators, and real estate partners.
- Build and maintain a robust pipeline of prospective resident life science startups; lead the full sales cycle from lead generation to deal closure.
- Lead regional marketing and advertising efforts to attract high-quality resident companies and strategic partners.
- Represent BioLabs at relevant local and national conferences, tradeshows, panels, and community events to elevate brand visibility and position BioLabs as a thought leader.
- Monitor market trends, competitive landscape, and customer
needs to refine sales strategies and support regional growth.
Resident & Community Support
- Cultivate strong relationships with resident startups, supporting their development and highlighting their successes.
- Design and implement a calendar of events and educational programming tailored to the needs of BioLabs' residents and the broader biotech community.
Team Leadership & Operations
- Manage the site team, including operations and events personnel, to foster a collaborative, service-oriented, and high-performing culture.
- Collaborate with the BioLabs Operations leadership team to standardize and continuously improve operational practices across locations.
- In partnership with BioLabs HQ, develop annual strategic goals and operating budgets; ensure financial accountability and manage within approved targets.
Strategic & Regional Initiatives
- Support the broader BioLabs Global team in identifying and advancing new business opportunities in the region.
- Act as a key contributor to the BioLabs
team, sharing best practices and insights to enhance network-wide impact.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor degree required; an advanced degree (PhD in life sciences or a related field) strongly preferred.
- Minimum of 3-5 years of leadership experience in business development, strategic partnerships, alliance management, and/or marketing within a commercial setting preferably in biotech or life sciences.
- Persuasive and passionate communicator with outstanding written, verbal, and presentation skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills, active listener, and proactive relationship builder.
- Proven ability to lead, inspire, and develop high-performing teams.
- Connections to the biotech ecosystem in the greater Rochester region (including universities, tech transfer offices, investors, startups, economic development agencies, or real estate) are a strong plus.
- Familiarity with early-stage company formation, venture investment, or related activities preferred.
- Highly organized, entrepreneurial, self-starter with strong results orientation.
- Willingness to attend off-hours meetings and events as needed.
- Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required.
