Business Development Manager (m/f/d) – Life Sciences Contracting
We are exclusively partnering with a founder-led recruitment firm headquartered in Germany. With a long-standing presence in the DACH region and several years of successful operations in Switzerland, the company is now entering its next phase of growth by expanding its Swiss team. Specialising in high-quality contracting solutions within the Life Sciences sector, the organisation is known for its entrepreneurial spirit, client-centric mindset, and long-term commitment to both talent and customers.
As Business Development Manager, you will play a key role in accelerating the company's growth in the Swiss Life Sciences market. This is a 180-degree position focused on client acquisition and relationship management. It is particularly well suited for experienced 360° recruiters who wish to move into a commercially focused role, concentrating exclusively on the business development side.
This is a client-facing function with no fixed office attendance required. While the company maintains an office in Zurich, the nature of the role allows for flexible work arrangements. Candidates based anywhere in Switzerland are encouraged to apply. Time spent in the office is optional, but should you choose to do so, know that the working environment is both modern and welcoming — and yes, your dog is welcome too.
Key Responsibilities
1. Proactively identify and win new client accounts within the Swiss Life Sciences sector
2. Establish and maintain strategic relationships with key decision-makers
3. Lead commercial negotiations and manage framework agreements at senior level
4. Act as a trusted partner to clients, collaborating closely with the internal delivery team
5. Monitor market developments and contribute to ongoing growth strategy
Profile
6. A minimum of 3 years' recruitment experience in Switzerland, ideally within the Life Sciences sector
7. Demonstrated success in business development or 360° recruitment with a strong commercial orientation
8. Excellent communication and negotiation skills in English (mandatory); fluency in additional Swiss national languages such as German, French, Italian, or Rumantsch is highly valued
9. Entrepreneurial mindset and a desire for long-term professional development
10. Ability to work autonomously while engaging as part of a collaborative, international team
Offer
11. Attractive compensation package in line with industry benchmarks
12. Dynamic work environment within a growing international organisation
13. A strategic role in a high-growth company with an established footprint in Switzerland
14. Competitive, performance-based compensation with an uncapped bonus structure
15. Long-term development prospects within a founder-led, forward-thinking organisation
16. Flexible work arrangements with a client-first approach – and a dog-friendly office in central Zurich for those who wish to use it