The Opportunity:
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.

Core Responsibilities

• 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.

Key Competencies

• 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

Additional Requirements

• 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

Avantor is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. 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.