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BioLabs · 3 days ago

Director, Business Operations & Strategy

Rochester, MN

Full-time

Onsite

Lead/Staff, Director/Executive

3+ years exp

BioLabs is a global innovation infrastructure company creating the physical and community backbone that powers life science discovery worldwide. The Director, Business Operations & Strategy will launch and manage the strategic and financial growth of the new site in Rochester, MN, while overseeing daily operations and fostering relationships within the local biotech ecosystem.

BiopharmaBiotechnologyLife Science

Responsibilities

Initiate and grow relationships with key stakeholders in the greater Rochester 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

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

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

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

Qualification

Business developmentStrategic partnershipsLeadership experienceBiotech ecosystem connectionsEarly-stage company formationResults orientationCommunication skillsInterpersonal skillsOrganizational skills

Required

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

Highly organized, entrepreneurial, self-starter with strong results orientation

Willingness to respond to site or lab-related issues outside standard business hours

Ability to lift and carry a minimum of 25 pounds and stand for extended periods

Availability to attend after-hours events

Willingness to travel as required

Preferred

An advanced degree (PhD in life sciences or a related field) strongly preferred

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