BioLabs founded in 2009 and headquartered in Cambridge, MA, USA, is the premier global network of co-working laboratory spaces for life science startups. We empower innovation by providing entrepreneurial scientists with premium, fully equipped lab and office spaces, along with exceptional access to capital and industry partners. Our rapidly expanding global network includes 11 sites across the United States and three in Europe. Each location is purposefully designed to support scientific entrepreneurs in testing, developing, growing, and commercializing their breakthrough ideas.
ROLE OVERVIEWIn May 2023, we launched Spartners by Servier & BioLabs in Saclay, France, a dynamic innovation ecosystem created in partnership with Servier, an independent global pharmaceutical group governed by a non-profit foundation. We are currently seeking a Site Director, located in Saclay, France, to lead the operations of this site, drive execution of our business plan, and support long-term strategic growth.As a Site Director, you will be responsible for the overall site operations and leading a collaborative team in Saclay that will build an ecosystem of experienced innovators, capital partners, and industry participants passionate about helping life-science entrepreneurs accelerate their path to commercialization.
This includes fostering trusted partnerships with stakeholders, running the day-to-day operations of the site, providing optimal experiences to our resident companies and reporting on all activities to the Open Innovation Management team at Servier.RESPONSIBILTIES Site Leadership & Operations
- Oversee day-to-day operations of the site, ensuring seamless coordination of laboratory, office, and co-working spaces
- Drive operational efficiency and uphold BioLabs’ high standards for laboratory and client experience
- Lead and support a multidisciplinary on-site team, including lab operations, office administration, facilities management, and communications professionals
- Develop and manage capital and operational budgets in collaboration with headquarters; monitor financial performance and ensure alignment with targets
Strategic Collaboration & Relationship Management
- Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with the Servier team across various functions (e.g., logistics, business development, human resources)
- Act as the key liaison to Servier, providing regular updates and strategic input on site operations and development
- Establish productive partnerships with local stakeholders, fostering a collaborative innovation ecosystem
Tenant Development & Community Building
- Lead the scouting, evaluation, and selection process for new tenant companies
- Promote a welcoming, inclusive, and dynamic community culture aligned with BioLabs’ mission and values
Programming & Ecosystem Engagement
- Design and implement programming that supports resident startups, leveraging partnerships with academic, industry, and entrepreneurial leaders
- Build and expand sponsor relationships to enhance resident services and strengthen the innovation community
- Collaborate with Site Directors and teams across the global BioLabs network to share best practices and create transnational opportunities for startups
This is an on-site position that requires frequent travel to represent and promote Spartners by Servier& Biolabs at various events and conferences.QUALIFICATIONS
- Master 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
- Connections to the biotech ecosystem in the greater Paris metropolitan 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
- Highly organized, entrepreneurial, self-starter with a strong results orientation
- Willingness to attend off-hours meetings and events as needed
- Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required
