Senior Business Development Manager - Disputes

Ambition; City Of London; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading international law firm in London seeks a Senior Business Development Manager for its Disputes team. In this high-impact role, you'll shape strategy, lead initiatives, and mentor a team. Ideal candidates will have proven BD experience in professional services, strong leadership skills, and excellent communication abilities. This opportunity promises significant influence across sectors and global exposure.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in business development within a professional services environment, ideally legal.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent communication, project management, and stakeholder engagement capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Leading BD strategy for the UK Disputes practice, aligned with global priorities.
• Managing and mentoring two direct reports.
• Driving pitch and proposal activity.

Skills

Business development experience

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Job description

Principal Consultant - Senior Legal BD, Marketing & Communications Recruitment

Senior Business Development Manager - Disputes

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a driven and ambitious Senior Business Development Manager to join the London Disputes team at a leading international law firm. This is a high-impact role with significant scope, offering the chance to shape strategy, lead initiatives, and manage a small team within one of the firm's most prestigious and globally recognised practice areas.

About the Role
This is a varied and high profile role, ideal for an experienced BD professional who thrives in a fast-paced and collaborative environment. You\'ll work closely with senior stakeholders to develop and execute strategic marketing and business development plans that enhance client relationships, drive growth, and elevate the firm\'s reputation in the UK and internationally.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading BD strategy for the UK Disputes practice, aligned with global priorities.
• Managing and mentoring two direct reports, fostering a high-performing and engaged team.
• Driving pitch and proposal activity, including global panel bids and fast-turnaround opportunities.
• Overseeing thought leadership campaigns, events, and directory submissions.
• Leveraging data and digital tools to identify opportunities, track engagement, and measure success.
• Building trusted relationships with partners and stakeholders across the firm.

What\'s needed

• Proven experience in business development within a professional services environment, ideally legal.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• A commercial mindset and strategic approach to client development.
• Excellent communication, project management, and stakeholder engagement capabilities.
• A proactive, collaborative style and a passion for delivering results.

This role offers a unique opportunity to work across multiple sectors and geographies, with exposure to high-profile matters and global campaigns. If you\'re looking for a role that combines strategic influence, team leadership, and variety, we\'d love to hear from you.

Senior Business Development Manager - Disputes