Associate Director Business Development

Ambition; Houston (TX); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Ambition in partnership with a globally recognized law firm seeks a Senior Manager / Associate Director, Business Development to support its market-leading M&A practice in the United States. This senior role offers exposure to practice leadership and a chance to influence BD strategy across the US and with an international network.

You will lead the development and execution of the M&A BD and marketing strategy, manage a US-based BD team, drive client targeting and key account

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of the M&A practice’s business development and marketing strategy.
• Manage and mentor a US-based BD team, while partnering closely with colleagues across EMEA.
• Drive client targeting and key account initiatives aligned to firm-wide growth objectives.
• Raise the profile of the practice through client programs, events, sponsorships, thought leadership, and market-facing campaigns.
• Monitor market activity, competitive trends, and emerging opportunities to support strategic decision-making.
• Partner on high-value panel pitches and RFPs, helping position the firm for continued growth and success.
• Deliver market intelligence and actionable insights to practice and firm leadership.

Job description

We're delighted to be working with a globally recognized law firm on the appointment of a Senior Manager / Associate Director, Business Development to support its market-leading M&A practice.

This is a senior strategic position offering significant exposure to practice leadership and the opportunity to influence business development strategy across the US, while collaborating with teams and stakeholders across an international network.

This opportunity would suit an ambitious Senior Business Development Manager ready for their next step who is looking to join a high-performing global firm.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Lead the development and execution of the M&A practice’s business development and marketing strategy.
• Manage and mentor a US-based BD team, while partnering closely with colleagues across EMEA.
• Drive client targeting and key account initiatives aligned to firm-wide growth objectives.
• Raise the profile of the practice through client programs, events, sponsorships, thought leadership, and market-facing campaigns.
• Monitor market activity, competitive trends, and emerging opportunities to support strategic decision-making.
• Partner on high-value panel pitches and RFPs, helping position the firm for continued growth and success.
• Deliver market intelligence and actionable insights to practice and firm leadership.

Why Consider This Role?

• Work directly with senior partners and practice leadership.
• Lead a highly visible function within one of the firm’s flagship practice areas.
• Be part of a collaborative BD leadership team with a reputation for investing in talent and career progression.
• Hybrid working model: 3 days in the office, 2 days flexible.