Lead Specialist

Job Details: Level: Entry, Job Location: US Remote - Hackensack, NJ, Position Type: Full Time, Education Level: Bachelors Degree, Salary Range: $28.00 - $33.00Hourly, Travel Percentage: None, Job Shift: Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Job Category: Business Development, ***THIS IS AN APPROXIMATELY 3 MONTH TEMPORARY POSITION TO COVER A MATERNITY LEAVE***   Approximate months December 2026-February 2027. POSITION TITLE: Lead Specialist  REPORTING LOCATION: US Remote   REPORTS TO: Associate Director, Commercial Campaigns and Field Enablement   PRIMARY OBJECTIVE: The Lead Specialist opens conversations with oncology drug discovery and translational scientists to build pipeline for Champions’ preclinical research services. Partnering with regional Business Development, Scientific teams and Marketing, they match each client’s research priorities and development programs to the right preclinical models and study designs, and hand qualified opportunities to Business Development Directors. This is a temporary, full-time position.   DUTIES, RESPONSIBILITIES AND PRODUCTIVITY EXPECTATIONS: Builds target lists of pharma and biotech companies with active oncology programs and identifies the right scientific contacts, using publications, conference abstracts, pipeline and funding news, and sales intelligence tools. Runs personalized, multi-channel outreach (email, phone, LinkedIn, and events) that ties a prospect’s programs or published work to relevant preclinical models and services, and follows up on campaign, conference, and inbound leads. Qualifies leads on scientific question, study type, timing, and budget, and books introductory and technical presentations with Business Development Directors. Coordinates with regional Business Development before engaging active accounts, and hands off qualified opportunities for progression through the sales cycle. Works with Scientific, Data, Sales Enablement, and Marketing teams on technical questions, collateral, and lead nurturing campaigns. Maintains accurate CRM records and reports on pipeline generated and market feedback, including which buyer personas respond, which services resonate, and where unmet client needs emerge. Uses and helps refine AI-assisted prospecting workflows and messaging, documenting what works. Meets activity and qualified-opportunity targets set with management. Occasionally represents Champions at scientific conferences and events; limited travel. Works independently and performs other related duties as assigned. Qualifications: KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Strong verbal and written communication skills with the ability to translate complex scientific concepts for commercial audiences.  Proven track record in lead qualification and pipeline development.  Proficient in CRM platforms, including but not limited to HubSpot, and LinkedIn Sales Navigator.  Proficient in leveraging AI for lead generation  Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.  Self-motivated, results-oriented, and colla EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in a life sciences field (Oncology focus preferred)  2+ years of experience in inside sales, business development, or lead generation, ideally within a CRO, biotech, or life sciences company.  Familiarity with preclinical oncology models (e.g., PDX, organoids) and/or bioinformatics/ strongly preferred.  PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: Must be able to sit for long periods of time using a computer in a typical office environment in a multi-level facility or home office.   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 a​​​​re committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.