At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape business growth and build relationships with top financial institutions.
- Company: Join a leading global law firm with a dynamic business development team.
- Benefits: Collaborative culture, exposure to global markets, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Opportunity for mentorship and growth within an international network.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment while working with industry leaders.
- Qualifications: Experience in professional services and strong relationship-building skills.
The predicted salary is between 63000 - 77000 £ per year.
- Business Development Manager, Financial Institutions Group (FIG)
- Shape the growth of one of the world's leading financial institutions practices
Freshfields is looking for an experienced and commercially-minded Business Development Manager to join our global Financial Institutions Group (FIG).
This is an exciting opportunity to work at the centre of a thriving international practice, partnering with market-leading lawyers and some of the world's most significant financial institutions.
Sitting at the intersection of strategy, client development and market insight, you will play a key role in driving growth across the US while contributing to the global direction of the FIG sector.
Working closely with partners and colleagues across our international network, you will help identify opportunities, strengthen client relationships and elevate the profile of the practice in a highly competitive market.
This role offers a rare combination of local market influence and global reach, making it ideal for someone who enjoys building relationships, shaping strategy and delivering tangible business impact.
- What you'll be doing
- As a trusted adviser to the FIG partners and wider business development team, you will:
- Help shape and execute business development plans that support the continued growth of the FIG practice in the US and globally.
- Lead the development of compelling client pitches, proposals, panel submissions and other strategic pursuits.
- Build and deepen relationships with key financial institution clients, supporting client programmes and identifying opportunities to grow our work.
- Drive thought leadership, events, campaigns and profile-raising initiatives that strengthen Freshfields' position in the market.
- Use client, competitor and market intelligence to generate insights that inform strategy and uncover new opportunities.
- Collaborate with colleagues across practices, sectors and jurisdictions to support cross-border opportunities and integrated client solutions.
- Contribute to global FIG initiatives by bringing a strong understanding of market trends and developments within the financial services sector.
- Support and mentor junior team members, helping to foster a collaborative and high-performing team culture.
About you
We're looking for an ambitious and commercially focused business development professional who thrives in a fast-paced, international environment.
You’ll bring
- Experience within a professional services environment, ideally supporting corporate or financial services-focused practices.
- A track record of working with senior stakeholders and influencing at partner level.
- Strong commercial awareness and the ability to translate market insights into practical business opportunities.
- Excellent project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Exceptional communication, relationship-building and stakeholder management capabilities.
- The confidence to work independently, exercise sound judgement and challenge constructively when needed.
- A collaborative approach and genuine enthusiasm for working across international teams.
- A natural curiosity about markets, clients and business development, with a desire to continually learn and grow.
Why Freshfields?
This is an opportunity to join a truly global business development team and contribute to one of the firm's most dynamic growth sectors.
You'll work alongside talented colleagues across our international network, gain exposure to some of the world's leading financial institutions and play a meaningful role in shaping the future of the practice.
Inclusion
Freshfields is an equal opportunities employer and all applications received by the firm will be considered by the firm on the basis of their merit alone and we welcome applications from all suitably qualified individuals regardless of background.
All offers of employment will be conditional on the candidate having/securing the right to work in the UK and providing the firm with evidence of that right (as required by the Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Act 2006) prior to employment commencing.
Freshfields is a Ban the Box employer.
We ask applicants to disclose criminal convictions only when a conditional job offer is made.
A conviction does not automatically lead to withdrawal of the offer: we make decisions on a case by case basis and take a number of factors into account (eg the role you are applying for and the circumstances of the offence).
You would have the opportunity to discuss the matter with us before we make a decision.
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Business Development Manager, Financial Institutions Group employer: Freshfields
Freshfields is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture, where diversity is celebrated and every employee is valued. With a commitment to professional development and continuous improvement, employees have access to extensive growth opportunities while working in a dynamic international environment. The firm prioritises teamwork and support, ensuring that all staff can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the success of clients and the community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager, Financial Institutions Group
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Freshfields. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager, Financial Institutions Group
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Freshfields.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Freshfields's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Freshfields
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Freshfields.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Freshfields will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Freshfields employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
