Director - Business Development

Vilya is a computational biotechnology company creating a novel class of medicines to precisely target disease biology. We believe computational approaches are an integral, if not foundational, component of drug discovery and development.

We are harnessing the power of our platform to go after previously impossible targets in an array of indications. Vilya’s ultimate goal is to solve some of the most challenging unmet medical needs that exist today.

Our Vision: Harness a revolution in technology and biology to better human health.

Our Mission: Build an independent, leading biotech company founded on intelligent drug design to cure the incurable.

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Director, Business Development to lead initiatives in identifying, evaluating, and executing high-value business opportunities. Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, you will work on-site, in either our Seattle or South San Francisco office. This high-impact role demands exceptional leadership, an extensive industry network, and a strong understanding of the competitive drug discovery landscape.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Growth & Partnerships – Accelerate Vilya’s growth by sourcing and securing partnerships aligned with corporate strategy.
• Deal Execution & Negotiation – Lead all phases of deal-making, including due diligence, structuring, and negotiations for licensing, joint ventures, and strategic partnerships.
• Market Intelligence & Opportunity Assessment – Conduct comprehensive analyses of market trends, emerging technologies, and competitive activity to inform business development strategy.
• Pipeline Expansion Support – Collaborate cross-functionally with R&D teams, scientific advisors, and company leadership to evaluate and prioritize new asset opportunities.
• Stakeholder Engagement – Build and maintain strong relationships with pharmaceutical and biotech companies, academic institutions, and venture capital groups to elevate Vilya’s external profile.
• Financial & Strategic Analysis – Develop financial models, investment cases, and due diligence materials to support executive decision-making.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration – Work closely with internal teams across legal, finance, and operations to ensure smooth transaction execution and integration.
• Executive Communication – Deliver regular updates and strategic recommendations to the Chief Executive Officer and senior leadership on business development activities and pipeline progress.
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in life sciences, business, or a related field; advanced degree (MBA, PhD) preferred.
• 8+ years of business or corporate development experience in the biotech or pharmaceutical industry. 5+ years in a startup environment is preferred.
• Expertise in the oncology and/or immunology space.
• Proven success in sourcing, negotiating, and closing complex licensing and partnership deals.
• Robust industry network across biotech, pharma, VC, and academia.
• Strong analytical, financial modeling, and due diligence skills.
• Demonstrated leadership and project management abilities with a track record of managing multiple high-priority projects.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
  
  

Salary & Benefits

• Opportunity to work in a disruptive startup with a talented, experienced, and growing team of dedicated individuals
• 401(k) plan with employer matching for contributions
• Stock Options
• Excellent medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Open, flexible vacation policy
• Support to attend professional conferences that are meaningful to your career growth
• Monthly cell phone and internet stipend
• Wellness benefits and access to onsite fitness center
• Commuter benefits
• Director Salary Range: $192,000.00 - $244,000.00