Associate Director Business Development

Ambition; New York (NY); On-site; USD 150,000 - 230,000; Full time

Job summary

Ambition is partnering with a leading international law firm to recruit an Associate BD Director to drive business development for the M&A practice across the United States. This senior role involves close collaboration with senior partners and practice leaders to shape strategy and opportunities within a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.

The position is ideal for a high-performing Senior BD Manager seeking a step-up, with visibility and opportunities to influence across the firm’s global

Qualifications

• Senior/leadership experience in business development within professional services.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic BD plans for the M&A practice across the US.
• Lead, coach, and develop a US-based BD team, collaborating with international offices.
• Drive client development, targeting, and key account initiatives to expand relationships.
• Enhance the M&A group's profile through thought leadership and client campaigns.
• Track deal activity and market developments to inform strategy.
• Support major pitches and proposals to win strategic mandates.
• Provide partners with market intelligence and commercial insight for decision-making.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic Planning

Team Management

Business Development

M&A Knowledge

Job description

We're pleased to be working with a leading international law firm on the search for an Associate BD Director to help drive the continued success of its established M&A practice.

This is a highly visible leadership opportunity, offering the chance to work closely with senior partners and practice leaders to shape business development strategy across the US, while collaborating with colleagues and stakeholders throughout the firm's global platform.

The role is ideally suited to a high-performing Senior Business Development Manager seeking a step-up opportunity within a sophisticated, fast-paced, and growth-oriented environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic business development plans to support the growth objectives of the M&A practice.
• Lead, coach, and develop a US-based BD team, whilst working closely with counterparts across international offices.
• Drive client development, targeting, and key account initiatives focused on strengthening market position and expanding relationships.
• Enhance the profile of the M&A group through thought leadership, client programmes, events, sponsorships, and strategic campaigns.
• Track deal activity, market developments, and competitor movements to identify opportunities and inform business strategy.
• Support major pitches, proposals, and panel reviews, ensuring the firm is well positioned to win strategic mandates.
• Provide partners and leadership with meaningful market intelligence and commercial insight to support decision-making.