Senior Director, Commercial Development, Advanced Synthesis

Lonza, a worldwide leader in life‑science solutions, operates on five continents delivering products and services that help other businesses improve health outcomes. The company is looking for a Senior Director, Commercial Development, Advanced Synthesis to steer commercial growth for its Advanced Synthesis platform, with a focus on Small‑Molecule API manufacturing. In this senior commercial position the incumbent will own the execution of Lonza's growth strategy for Small Molecules. Daily tasks involve shaping customer proposals, negotiating contracts, and presenting technical expertise at client meetings and industry events. The role works hand‑in‑hand with Marketing, Sales, Portfolio Management, Operations, R&D and site leadership to uncover attractive market opportunities, design differentiated business models and align market demand with manufacturing capacity and investment plans. Continuous monitoring of market trends, competitor moves and emerging technologies is also required to feed the pipeline of growth ideas. The candidate must hold a Master's degree in Life Sciences, Engineering or a closely related discipline. A deep background in the CDMO sector, especially with Small‑Molecule drug substance or product, is essential, as is a solid grasp of the drug‑development pathway and Small‑Molecule manufacturing processes. Expertise in spray‑drying, a track record of commercial leadership together with strong negotiation and customer‑engagement skills, and the ability to influence across a complex matrix organization are also required. The role calls for strategic thinking, clear communication, problem‑solving and organisational capabilities, a customer‑focused, results‑driven attitude, fluency in business English and a willingness to travel roughly 40 % of the time. The position is based in Basel, Switzerland, and offers a highly collaborative environment that brings together commercial, technical, operational and leadership teams. While an advanced degree such as an MBA is preferred, and experience in operations or manufacturing is considered an advantage, the core focus remains on delivering commercial success for the Advanced Synthesis business. What the role asks for: - Master's degree in Life Sciences, Engineering or related field - Extensive CDMO experience with Small Molecule drug substance/product - Strong understanding of drug development and Small Molecule manufacturing - Spray‑drying expertise - Proven commercial leadership, customer engagement and negotiation - Ability to lead and influence in a matrixed organization - Business‑fluent English and willingness to travel up to 40 % - Nice‑to‑have: advanced degree/MBA or operations/manufacturing experience