At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead business development for a top international law firm, focusing on US market growth.
- Company: Renowned international law firm known for quality work and strong culture.
- Benefits: Influential role with autonomy, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a collaborative environment that values innovation and commercial thinking.
- Why this job: Shape the firm's US strategy and make a lasting impact in a global legal business.
- Qualifications: Senior-level BD experience in the legal sector and strong stakeholder influence.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
I am working with a leading international law firm, recognised for the quality of its work and the strength of its culture, to appoint a senior business development leader to support a key phase of international growth. This is a high‑profile opportunity to take ownership of developing and scaling the firm's US platform, sitting at the centre of its broader international growth strategy. The role offers real influence, autonomy and visibility, working closely with partners and senior leadership to shape go‑to‑market strategy, drive new business and build long‑term presence in key growth areas.
Operating as a trusted commercial adviser to the partnership, you will lead international business development activity with a particular emphasis on the US. You will help define where the firm focuses its efforts, how it positions itself in the market and how it converts opportunity into sustainable revenue.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading the development and execution of the firm's US go‑to‑market strategy, supporting market entry, expansion and long‑term growth
- Advising partners and senior stakeholders on international market positioning, commercial priorities and business development strategy
- Identifying, shaping and driving new business opportunities across the US and other priority emerging or high‑growth markets
- Playing a hands‑on role in major pursuits and 'must‑win' opportunities, bringing commercial rigour and challenge where needed
- Working with practice and sector leadership to develop targeted propositions aligned to market demand and client need
- Supporting partner‑led client development, relationship building and cross‑border collaboration
- Building and maintaining strategic alliances, including with local counsel, trade bodies and other third‑party organisations
- Leading sales enablement and profile‑raising activity, including thought leadership, market‑specific materials and client engagement tools
- Using insight, data and market analysis to assess performance, track ROI and refine approach
- Leading and developing an international BD team, setting direction, driving consistency and encouraging high standards
About you:
- Senior‑level business development experience within the legal sector
- A strong track record of working with emerging markets or international expansion initiatives
- Comfortable operating at partner level and influencing senior stakeholders
- Commercial, confident and able to balance strategy with delivery
- Motivated by building something with scale, visibility and long‑term impact
- Previous experience gained within the legal sector
This is a rare opportunity to shape a critical growth area within a highly respected law firm that genuinely values collaboration, culture and commercial thinking. It will suit someone who wants to leave a mark, not just manage activity, and who is excited by the challenge of building a US platform within a global legal business.
Head of BD International Markets employer: Ambition
Join a leading international law firm that prioritises collaboration and innovation, offering a unique opportunity to shape its US growth strategy. With a strong emphasis on employee development and a supportive work culture, you will have the autonomy to influence key business decisions while working alongside senior leadership. This role not only provides competitive benefits but also the chance to make a significant impact in a dynamic environment focused on long-term success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of BD International Markets
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals, attend events, and join relevant groups. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Create content that highlights your knowledge in business development and the legal sector. Share articles, insights, or even start a blog to get noticed by potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out to firms directly, express your interest, and ask about potential opportunities. You never know what might be available behind the scenes.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of exciting roles waiting for you. Make sure to check it out regularly and submit your application directly for the best chance at getting noticed.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of BD International Markets
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV speaks directly to the role of Head of BD International Markets. Highlight your experience in business development, especially within the legal sector, and showcase any successes in international growth or market entry.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific examples of how you've influenced senior stakeholders and driven new business opportunities in the past.
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking:In your application, demonstrate your ability to think strategically about market positioning and business development. Share insights or data that reflect your understanding of the US market and how you can contribute to the firm's growth.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ambition
✨Know Your Market Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the US legal market. Understand the key players, emerging trends, and potential growth areas. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also help you articulate how you can contribute to their go-to-market strategy.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully led business development initiatives in the past. Highlight your ability to balance strategy with delivery, and be ready to explain how you would approach building the firm's US platform.
✨Build Rapport with Stakeholders
Since this role involves working closely with partners and senior leadership, practice how you'll establish trust and rapport. Think about how you can demonstrate your ability to influence and advise at a senior level during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Your Commercial Acumen
Be prepared to discuss how you've used data and market analysis to drive business decisions. Share insights on how you track ROI and refine approaches based on performance metrics, as this will show your commercial rigour and strategic mindset.
