Business Development Executive in London

Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) is a sector-focused international law firm with extensive expertise and industry insight across its core sectors of energy, infrastructure and transport. Through its network of 19 offices, the firm advises clients on complex, high-value transactions and disputes – matters requiring precise legal execution and a nuanced understanding of global market dynamics.

The firm’s success is driven by its people. It fosters a collaborative, inclusive and supportive environment where everyone can grow, share ideas and make an impact. Guided by its values –We are experts, We are united and We care – the firm delivers exceptional service through strong relationships and teamwork. The firm is committed to clear career paths, championing diversity and investing in its people so they can thrive.

The Global Business Development and Communications team comprises 60 business development, communications and marketing professionals globally. As our route to market is through our global sectors and our clients are international, team members regularly collaborate to deliver cross-border campaigns, projects and client development. It is a close-knit and supportive team with an excellent reputation across the firm.

The role will require a self-motivated person who will work with and support our team in Paris in the management of existing client relationships and the development of new business opportunities in our core sectors of Energy, Infrastructure and Transport.

Supporting daily the Senior BD Manager in the implementation of sector focused business development and marketing plans, including mainly:

• Preparing capability statements and pitch documents, tailored to clients’ needs, in close collaboration with partners, ensuring messaging alignment with capabilities.
• Maintaining brochures, pitch templates and databases (for deals, pitches and lawyers profiles) up to date.
• Supporting partners in executing their business and client development activities.
• Liaising with the partners to ensure completion of the directory submissions and league tables.
• Carrying out research and analysis on market trends, clients and prospects.
• Supporting the organisation of client events including working with CRM system, emailing campaigns, onsite logistics.
• Coordinating communication with the central Digital and Internal communication teams.
• Contributing to the local implementation of global business development projects.

• Fluent in French and English.
• Excellent oral and written communications skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and a diplomatic approach.
• High level of attention to detail.
• Organised, proactive, and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• General knowledge of business / ability to understand legal services and transactions.
• Master’s degree from business school or equivalent postgraduate qualification with a specialization in Law, Economics or Business studies.
• 1 or 2 years’ experience in business development or marketing roles in an international B2B environment (law firm, consulting, banking, etc.).
• Ability to work effectively directly with the Paris partners and with the global BD team members.
• Understands and demonstrates WFW’s core values of respect, sharing, communication and integrity.

We offer a competitive benefits and wellbeing package for all employees.

The Firm promotes a culture of agility and flexibility and is fully supportive of flexible working arrangements where these can be accommodated.

Diversity and inclusion are integral to the firm’s strategy and underpin its efforts to attract and retain top talent. All employment decisions are made objectively, based on merit and ability and the firm is committed to inclusive and barrier-free recruitment. As a Disability Confident employer, WFW welcomes adjustments for candidates with disabilities or long-term health conditions and participates in the Disability Confident interview scheme. If you would like to apply through this scheme or require adjustments during any stage of the process, please contact London_Recruitment@wfw.com.