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- Tasks: Lead business development strategies and manage client relationships in a dynamic legal environment.
- Company: Join Gibson Dunn, a top global law firm known for its innovative legal strategies.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional growth opportunities, and a collaborative team culture.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities for career advancement in a fast-paced, supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make an impact by driving strategic initiatives and working with high-profile clients.
- Qualifications: 5-7 years in professional services, strong project management, and team leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Gibson Dunn is a leading global law firm, advising clients on significant transactions and disputes. Our exceptional teams craft and deploy creative legal strategies that are meticulously tailored to every matter, however complex or high-stakes. The firm’s work is distinguished by a unique combination of precision and vision.
Based in London, the Business Development Manager will be responsible for providing guidance and input on the London business plan (including target lists, high impact client relationships, publishing and speaking opportunities, and other related initiatives) and drive execution. Along with other team members, this position will lead on related pitches and RFPs ensuring the firm is strategic in its approach and positioning itself to win the work. This role will also work closely with local and international business development colleagues to lead cross-practice initiatives, contribute to team infrastructure and other strategic projects as needed. This role reports to the Sr. Manager of Business Development based in the London office and will work alongside the London Practice Group Manager for Transactional.
Responsibilities
- Lead the overall business development and marketing efforts for assigned practices and/or regions as well as providing support for individual partner business objectives.
- Lead and oversee preparation of pitches, RFPs (with RFP team) and other client facing materials including leading strategy sessions, internal debriefs and tracking outcomes.
- Spearhead the drafting and maintaining of practice-specific marketing materials and collateral including experience lists and the collection of relevant matters.
- Support the practice's key client efforts and work with colleagues to ensure the identification, development, and growth of high-value clients.
- Lead client teaming efforts for selected clients relevant to assigned practices, helping to coordinate strategies and execute action items to develop relationships.
- Lead client targeting initiatives to cross-pollenate relationships both within and outside the London transactional team, liaising with Business Development colleagues and lawyers globally.
- Contribute to the execution of seminars, events (with the events team), conference sponsorships and other targeted marketing activities, contributing strategically to invite lists and the business rationale behind such activities.
- Act as a lead on additional related projects within the Department or Firm as assigned.
- Manage one direct report and assist Sr. Manager with team management and contribute to development and advancement of the early tenure marketing team members.
Qualifications
- Exceptional professional interpersonal skills and the ability to interact with lawyers at varying levels including firm leadership.
- Strong project management and time management skills.
- Experience of line managing junior team members.
- Solid understanding of the needs and expectations of law firms and the ability to work in an environment with shifting priorities and many constituents.
- Ability to work under pressure.
- Exceptional in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
- Familiarity and comfort with AI tools including ChatGPT, Gemini, Co-Pilot and others.
- Ability to work outside business hours and occasional travel as needed.
Experience
- University degree.
- 5-7 years of experience in professional services, legal preferred.
- 2+ years of team management experience preferred.
- Experience with strategic business development planning and pitching, with transactional knowledge preferred.
Business Development Manager employer: Gibson Dunn
Contact Detail:
Gibson Dunn Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Development Manager
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, seminars, and networking meet-ups. The more you engage with potential employers and colleagues, the better your chances of landing that Business Development Manager role.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to pitch or present, make it count! Tailor your approach to highlight your project management skills and experience in strategic business development. Remember, this is your moment to shine and show why you're the perfect fit for the team.
✨Follow Up
After any meeting or interview, don’t forget to follow up! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. It shows your enthusiasm and professionalism, which are key traits for a Business Development Manager.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Make sure to apply through our website for the best chance at getting noticed. We love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Plus, it’s a great way to stay updated on new opportunities!
We think you need these skills to ace Business Development Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Business Development Manager role. Highlight your experience in business development, especially in professional services or legal sectors, and show how your skills align with the job description.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your project management and team leadership skills. Use metrics where possible to illustrate your impact, like successful pitches or client growth.
Be Personable: Remember, this role involves interacting with various stakeholders. Let your personality shine through in your application. We want to see your exceptional interpersonal skills reflected in your writing style.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our website. This way, we can easily track your application and ensure it reaches the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gibson Dunn
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Gibson Dunn's recent cases and business development strategies. Familiarise yourself with their unique approach to client relationships and how they position themselves in the market. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you tailor your responses to align with their values.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Business Development Manager, you'll be leading teams and projects. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past. Highlight your ability to motivate others and drive results, especially in high-pressure situations, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific business development scenarios, such as pitching to a high-profile client or managing a team under tight deadlines. Practise articulating your thought process and strategies clearly, demonstrating your problem-solving skills and strategic thinking.
✨Engage with Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking insightful questions about the firm's future plans or their approach to client engagement. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if the firm aligns with your career aspirations. Plus, it gives you a chance to demonstrate your understanding of the industry.