Senior BD Manager - Corporate / M&A
Job Description
A leading international law firm is seeking an experienced and commercially minded Senior Business Development Manager to join its highly regarded UK Corporate/M&A team. This is a high-profile role working closely with Partners and senior stakeholders on strategic client and market development initiatives within one of the firm’s core global practices.
You will play a key role in shaping and delivering the UK M&A business development strategy, partnering directly with lawyers to identify, pursue, and win revenue-generating opportunities. Acting as a trusted adviser to Partners, you will connect the practice with the full breadth of BD expertise across the firm’s global network.
You will also collaborate closely with BD colleagues in other regions and be an active member of a well-established international BD community.
Responsibilities
• Develop and implement strategic BD and marketing plans aligned with firmwide priorities
• Support Partners and teams on client development, pitches, panels, and proposals
• Identify market trends, sector opportunities, and gaps in product or sector coverage
• Oversee research, competitor analysis, and evaluation of ROI on BD initiatives
• Lead and support profile-raising activity including events, thought leadership, and directory submissions
• Work closely with brand, communications, and knowledge teams to enhance the practice’s market reputation
• Contribute to firmwide client and sector programmes
• Support global BD projects and the ongoing evolution of the BD operating model
• Line manage and develop at least one team member
Job Requirements
• Proven experience in business development within professional services (law firm experience preferred)
• Strong understanding of, or interest in, Corporate/M&A work
• Commercially astute with excellent stakeholder management skills
• Confident advising Partners and working with senior lawyers
• Strong project management, organisational, and communication skills
• Collaborative, detail-oriented, and committed to high-quality delivery
The firm operates a balanced hybrid working model (typically 50/50) and is recognised for its fair, pragmatic, and people-focused approach to flexible working.
