Director Sandbox Partnerships

TITLE: Director, Sandbox Partnerships

REPORTING LOCATION: Remote or onsite in Rockville MD

REPORTS TO: EVP/GM Data Platform

Champions Oncology is building a next-generation discovery platform at the intersection of experimental biology, multiomics, and machine learning. With a foundation in deep tumor characterization and patient-derived systems, we provide partners with structured access to high-value biological data and the infrastructure to explore, iterate, and accelerate discovery.

Through our unique “sandbox” engagement model, we offer collaborators dynamic access to experimental systems and computational pipelines—enabling them to prototype ideas, refine algorithms, and co-develop insights in a frictionless, data-driven environment.

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly strategic and relationship-driven business development leader to shape and grow our Sandbox partnerships initiative. This role is designed for someone who thrives in complex, long-cycle collaborations, and is energized by the challenge of bringing sophisticated data-platform offerings to partners across the pharmaceutical and biotech landscape.

You’ll be responsible for sourcing, structuring, and closing strategic collaborations that unlock the value of Champions’ experimental models and AI-optimized datasets—building recurring revenue streams and joint innovation pathways.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Partnering & Growth

• Identify and develop high-value partnerships with biopharma, biotech, and data-forward R&D organizations.
• Align partner needs with Champions’ capabilities, including experimental models, multiomic datasets, and machine learning integration layers.
• Design collaboration structures that combine access-based subscriptions, modular experimentation, and co-owned innovation.

Deal Structuring & Execution

• Lead all aspects of partnership execution: prospecting, proposal development, negotiation, contracting, and onboarding.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with scientific, data, legal, and program management teams to define scopes of work and delivery models.
• Drive creative business terms—data licensing, joint milestones, equity or IP-sharing structures—that align with long-term value creation.

Platform Advocacy

• Serve as a senior external representative of Champions’ data and experimental innovation capabilities.
• Translate the technical depth of the platform into compelling business narratives that resonate with diverse partner types—from translational science teams to business innovation units.

Market Insight & Positioning

• Stay informed on industry trends in AI-enabled drug discovery, computational biology, and therapeutic R&D partnerships.
• Continually refine Champions’ positioning and messaging based on partner feedback and evolving needs in the external landscape.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Familiarity with data-rich and platform-oriented business models in biotech, including exposure to AI-driven discovery, multiomics, or cloud-based research frameworks.
• Ability to navigate complex stakeholders—from scientific founders to commercial leads—and bridge the technical and business components of a deal.
• Strong negotiation skills with experience structuring deals that go beyond transactional engagements to include licensing, risk-sharing, or co-development models.
• Entrepreneurial mindset and comfort working in an agile, evolving environment focused on long-term impact over short-term volume.
• Ability to travel up to 25% of the time.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Minium Bachelor’s Degree, Master’s or PhD preferred.
• 8–12 years of experience in business development, strategic alliances, or enterprise partnerships within life sciences, with a track record of closing multi-year, non-standard collaborations.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Must be able to sit for long periods of time using a computer in a typical office environment.

This description reflects management’s assignment of essential functions, it does not proscribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.  We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.