Associate Director, Business Development, Corporate - M&A

Our Business Development & Marketing team plays a critical role in enhancing the Firm’s reputation, expanding its client base and driving revenue growth. This team develops and implements strategic marketing plans to promote the Firm’s legal services, leveraging digital and traditional marketing channels to reach target audiences. They conduct market research to identify industry trends and client needs, positioning the Firm competitively within the legal marketplace. The team also manages client relationships, orchestrates business development initiatives, and seeks opportunities for partnerships and networking. Through compelling content creation, event planning and public relations efforts, they ensure that the Firm maintains a strong market presence and continues to attract and retain clients.

The Associate Director, Business Development plays a pivotal role in supporting the strategic objectives related to Business Development, leading and/or contributing to initiatives that raise the profile of the Firm and optimise client engagement. This role demonstrates significant autonomy and influence, shaping or leading the strategic direction of Business Development activities to support the Firm's long-term Business Development goals. Recognised as an expert, the Associate Director provides innovative thought leadership and develops unique solutions to complex issues related to new business growth, client management, serving in both managerial and individual contributor capacities.

Responsibilities

• Contributes to the development and execution of strategic initiatives and operations to support business growth, client engagement, and firm development goals.
• Provides expert guidance and support to leadership teams across the business on Business Development matters, including client acquisition, account growth and retention strategies.
• Manages and drives preparation of business development activities such as pitches, proposals, capability statements or other client presentation materials, working closely with relevant Legal partners.
• Collaborates cross-functionally to identify and address overarching Business Development needs and challenges across the Firm, leveraging expertise and insights to drive solutions that maximise client satisfaction and engagement.
• Supports the development and delivery of business performance programmes to assess and measure client satisfaction, engagement and performance to inform further BD initiatives.
• Oversees the development and implementation of policies, processes, and initiatives to drive continuous improvement in Business Development related activities by optimising efficiency and resources.
• Stays informed on industry trends and regulatory changes, providing recommendations and guidance to ensure compliance, mitigate risk and promote a healthy Business Development environment.

The job requires the ability to negotiate internally and often externally with others at a senior level. Managers at this level will lead one or more teams of Senior Managers or Managers, or a smaller Sub-Function. They will be a visible leader with direct and matrix leadership and decision-making responsibility. Individual contributors at this level will be a thought leader, setting the technical and professional direction of a specialism or area of expertise critical to the Function. Significant experience in a senior leadership role, able to support organisational change and transformation through the lens of risk management. Deep subject matter expertise, with a broad and comprehensive understanding of their field providing thought leadership for a Sub-Function that is key to the firm. Previous experience of actively managing large regional or global portfolios and leading teams of managers and professionals. Strategic mindset with the ability to identify opportunities for process improvements and implement solutions to drive operational efficiency. Strong commercial awareness and business acumen, with the ability to align Function strategies with broader business objectives. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to apply complex judgment to define problems and develop solutions. Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, to influence and negotiate with internal and external stakeholders at senior level. Bachelor’s degree or equivalent through experience/relevant certifications where appropriate to the discipline.

Reporting

This role reports to Director, Business Development - M&A Corporate.

Standard Office Hours

Our standard office hours are 09:30-18:00, with a current requirement for 3 days in the office per week.

Equal Opportunities

White & Case is committed to creating a fair workplace. It is our Firm’s policy to recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote without regard to race, religion, creed, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, military or veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other category protected by applicable law. If you require assistance and/or adjustment to participate in our application and/or interview process, please email us. We will be happy to work with you.

The Firm may modify and amend any job description at any time in its sole discretion. Nothing herein creates a contract of employment or otherwise modifies the at-will nature of employment. The above is only a general description of the essential duties associated with this position and does not represent an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all duties.

Note to Recruitment Agencies

Our internal Recruitment team manages all aspects of lateral hiring. All agencies must have signed terms of business—specific to the relevant office—before submitting any candidates. CVs or applications sent directly to White & Case partners or employees will also not be considered formal introductions. If you have questions, please contact the relevant Recruitment team. We work with our preferred suppliers when engaging agencies.