Head of Legal Business Development

We are seeking a dynamic and highly experienced Global Business Development Head to lead the firm’s strategic growth initiatives across. This senior leadership role will be pivotal in expanding the firm’s market presence, deepening global client relationships, and driving business development strategies that align with both regional priorities and global objectives.

With 15–18 years of demonstrated success in business development within a law firm or other professional services environment, the ideal candidate will bring a strong commercial acumen, a deep understanding of the regional legal market, and proven ability to influence and collaborate with senior stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Market Leadership

• Develop and execute a comprehensive regional business development strategy to support practice group goals and regional office growth.
• Work closely with firm leadership and partners to identify new business opportunities, key growth sectors, and strategic client targets.
• Monitor and analyze regional market developments, emerging trends, and competitor activity to proactively position the firm.

Client Relationship Development

• Lead key client programs across the region, including client feedback initiatives, strategic account planning, and cross-border relationship development.
• Act as a senior advisor to partners on client engagement strategy, pitch positioning, and relationship-building tactics.
• Drive growth from existing and potential global clients through tailored solutions and multi-jurisdictional collaboration.

Practice Group and Sector Support

• Partner with global and regional practice leaders to support business plans, client targeting, and sector strategies (e.g., Banking & Finance, M&A, Arbitration).
• Identify and facilitate cross-selling opportunities across practice areas and offices.

Leadership and Team Management

• Lead and mentor a regional business development team, fostering collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
• Align regional team goals with global business development priorities and firm vision.

Campaigns, Brand, and Thought Leadership

• Oversee regionally tailored marketing campaigns, client events, and sponsorships in line with firm strategy.
• Guide the development and distribution of thought leadership to position the firm as a market leader in key areas of law.
• Ensure consistent brand messaging across all communications in the region.

Operational Excellence

• Oversee preparation of proposals, RFPs, capability statements, and directory submissions.
• Leverage data analytics and CRM tools to assess BD performance and measure ROI.
• Set KPIs, monitor budgets, and report regularly to global BD leadership and regional partners.

Qualifications:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree required (Business, Law, Marketing, or related field); Master’s degree, MBA, or JD highly desirable.

Experience:

• 15–18 years of business development, marketing, or client relationship management experience, preferably in an international law firm or top-tier professional services firm.
• Extensive experience managing senior stakeholder relationships, with a proven ability to advise partners and influence decision-making at the highest levels.
• Track record of leading successful strategic initiatives across multiple jurisdictions or regions.

Skills:

• Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and team management capabilities.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills; strong editorial judgment.
• Deep understanding of legal industry trends, international markets, and client dynamics.
• High level of business acumen, diplomacy, and cross-cultural sensitivity.
• Proficiency in CRM systems (e.g., InterAction, Salesforce) and strong data analysis capabilities.