Business Development Manager (m/w/x) M&A

FRESHFIELDS OVERVIEW

Freshfields is a global law firm, providing high-quality business law advice. We aim to be the law firm clients trust for critical legal advice worldwide. The firm has over 2,400 lawyers across 28 offices, serving national and multinational corporations, financial institutions, and governments.

Our people are our strength. We foster a welcoming, supportive environment that values diversity, which we see as a source of strength, bringing fresh perspectives and ideas. We are passionate about our work, committed to excellence, and believe in teamwork.

We operate globally, working wherever our clients need us, excelling in cross-border legal work across different legal systems and cultures. Our goal is to add value for our clients and make a positive impact on the communities we serve.

About Marketing & Business Development (MBD)

MBD is a dynamic global team comprising business development specialists, research analysts, and marketing and communications experts. We shape the firm’s client strategy, analyze complex issues, target opportunities, develop proposals, and create marketing campaigns to enhance our digital presence, shaping client experience and global perception of Freshfields.

ROLE SUMMARY

This role requires excellent teamwork and communication skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with senior stakeholders both regionally and globally. The candidate should have experience working in a law firm environment, preferably with knowledge of the German legal market, and experience in M&A or related practice BD roles.

The Business Development Manager will support Germany and Austria-based M&A and real estate partners, focusing on BD support and opportunities in this region. Responsibilities include developing and executing strategies, managing proposals and pitches, producing content and campaigns, supporting events, leveraging technology like Salesforce, and building trusted relationships internally.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Essential:

• Degree educated with significant experience in professional services, preferably legal
• Excellent bilingual skills in German and English, with strong business writing abilities
• Strong project management and multi-tasking skills, capable of managing deadlines and pressure
• Flexible, resilient, and able to work in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent collaboration and relationship-building skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office; experience with CRM systems like Salesforce is a plus
• Curious and eager to develop into a well-rounded business development professional in M&A/Corporate