Associate Director – Catalyze360 External Partnering

Eli Lilly and Company

. Expand Catalyze360 collaborations by finding, cultivating, and converting opportunities with early-stage biotechnology companies .

Posted 10/8/2026full-timeIndianapolis • Massachusetts • United StatesSenior💰 $136,500 - $200,200 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in client services and consultative business development within the biotechnology sector, with a strong focus on building relationships and understanding the needs of early-stage companies. Proficient in drug discovery and development processes, with the ability to translate complex scientific concepts into actionable engagement strategies.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Advanced Degree (MS, PhD, PharmD)7+ Years in Client Services and Business Development3+ Years with Early-Stage Biotech CompaniesStrong Scientific AcumenProficiency with CRM Systems

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Drug Discovery and DevelopmentConsultative SellingNeeds AssessmentComplex Solution DevelopmentPipeline ManagementBusiness Development Analytics

Soft Skills

Strategic ThinkingRelationship BuildingTrust and Credibility EstablishmentIndependent WorkMulti-Task Management

Tools & Technologies

CRM SystemsOutreach Tracking Tools

Industry Keywords

BiotechnologyVenture Ecosystem EngagementIncubatorAcceleratorExternal Innovation Networks

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Expand Catalyze360 collaborations by finding, cultivating, and converting opportunities with early-stage biotechnology companies
Develop and execute outreach strategies to increase awareness of ExploR&D and TuneLab capabilities
Build and maintain a pipeline of qualified early-company prospects through outreach, ecosystem mapping, venture and incubator relationships, industry events, and referrals
Lead initial conversations with prospective companies to understand scientific objectives, development constraints, resource gaps, and solution opportunities
Shape customized engagements connecting company needs with ExploR&D expertise and digital solutions
Collaborate with Lilly Ventures, Lilly Gateway Labs, Lilly TuneLab, scientific subject-matter experts, and operational teams
Monitor biotech ecosystem trends, founder needs, funding dynamics, and emerging scientific areas
Represent Catalyze360 at conferences, founder forums, incubator events, and networking venues
Provide leadership with pipeline updates, outreach metrics, company intelligence, and market insights to guide prioritization and resourcing

Requirements

What you’ll need

Advanced degree (MS, PhD, PharmD) required in a relevant scientific field such as Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, or related discipline
7+ years of progressive experience in client services, consultative business development, external innovation, biotech partnering, venture ecosystem engagement, pharmaceutical services, or related roles
3+ years of experience working with early-stage biotech companies, founders, venture-backed organizations, incubators, accelerators, or external innovation networks
3+ years of hands-on knowledge of drug discovery and development, including scientific, translational, operational, and financing challenges faced by early companies
Proven track record of building external relationships, generating qualified opportunities, and growing consultative service offerings
Strong scientific acumen and ability to understand early-stage programs, diagnose strategic needs, and translate complex technical concepts into clear engagement opportunities
Ability to establish trust and credibility with founders, venture investors, C-level executives, and scientific leaders
Strategic thinking and ability to identify companies and engagement models aligned with ExploR&D and Catalyze360 priorities
Ability to work independently, manage multiple company conversations, and advance opportunities in a fast-paced environment
Proficiency with CRM systems, pipeline management, outreach tracking, and business development analytics tools
Demonstrated success in consultative selling, needs assessment, and complex solution development
Established network within the U.S. biotechnology, venture, incubator, accelerator, or founder ecosystem
Familiarity with consulting, fee-for-service, sponsored research, milestone-based, or other flexible engagement structures
Up to 30% travel required for client meetings, conferences, and site visits

Benefits

Comp & perks

Company bonus depending partly on company and individual performance
Company-sponsored 401(k)
Pension
Vacation benefits
Medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug benefits
Flexible benefits, including healthcare and dependent day care flexible spending accounts
Life insurance and death benefits
Time off and leave of absence benefits
Well-being benefits, including employee assistance program, fitness benefits, and employee clubs and activities
Remote option may be available based on business needs