Business Development Specialist

Jackson Lewis P.C.; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Jackson Lewis P.C. in Chicago is looking for a Business Development Specialist to support their team with proposals and pitches. This role requires 2-4 years of experience in business development or marketing, preferably in a law firm.

The ideal candidate will have strong writing and organizational skills, ability to manage multiple tasks, and a collaborative spirit. Jackson Lewis P.C. offers a dynamic environment focused on professional growth and collaboration.

Qualifications

• 2-4 years of business development or marketing experience in a law firm.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills with attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Support proposal team in coordinating proposal processes.
• Prepare and proofread materials for accuracy and branding.
• Collaborate with team to develop client-facing materials.
• Research information for pitches and strategic initiatives.

Skills

Business development experience

Marketing skills

Strong writing skills

Organizational skills

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

CRM tools

Job description

Focused on employment and labor law since 1958, Jackson Lewis P.C.’s 1,000+ attorneys located in major cities nationwide consistently identify and respond to new ways workplace law intersects business. We help employers develop proactive strategies, strong policies and business-oriented solutions to cultivate high-functioning workforces that are engaged and stable, and share our clients’ goals to emphasize belonging and respect for the contributions of every employee.

The Firm is ranked in the First Tier nationally in the category of Labor and Employment Litigation, as well as in both Employment Law and Labor Law on behalf of Management, in the U.S. News - Best Lawyers® “Best Law Firms”.

We are seeking a results‑oriented candidate who has demonstrated drive, dedication, professionalism, and a positive attitude to join a team with an exciting opportunity for growth. The Business Development Specialist will be responsible for supporting JL’s Business Development team, which includes a team dedicated to RFP responses, proposals, and pitches, as well as a team of business development managers who are responsible for the development and execution of strategic BD efforts across the firm’s offices, practices, and industries.

The ideal candidate for this role thrives in a team atmosphere yet is also able to work independently, takes pride in their work, and is committed to a creative, efficient and additive approach to the business development team’s day‑to‑day needs.

Essential Functions

• Support the proposal team in coordinating and executing the proposal response process from assignment through submission, including organizing materials, tracking requests, deadlines and other pertinent information, and assisting with final production.
• Prepare initial drafts, edit, and proofread materials to ensure accuracy, consistency, and adherence to firm branding and style guidelines.
• Collaborate with proposal team members, attorneys, business development managers, and other internal stakeholders to gather information and support the development of tailored client-facing materials.
• Maintain and organize proposal content, experience information, and related resources within the firm’s central proposal repository and related databases.
• Support business development managers with the execution of strategic business development initiatives across offices, practices, and industries.
• Research and compile information from internal firm resources and business development materials to support pitches, events, client opportunities, and strategic initiatives.
• Coordinate and track business development activities, including pitches, proposals, events, sponsorships, conferences, and related follow‑up efforts.
• Draft reports, presentations, marketing materials, mailing lists, and other business development collateral.
• Assist with lateral integration and onboarding activities, including coordinating materials, tracking progress, and supporting related business development efforts.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of proposal and business development processes, templates, and resources to support efficient and high-quality client service.
• Stay informed on industry trends, market developments, and business development best practices to support team and firm initiatives.

Qualifications / Skills Required

• 2-4 years of business development, marketing, proposals, or related experience in a law firm or other professional services environment preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong writing, editing, proofreading, and organizational skills, with close attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and the ability to work effectively with attorneys, business development professionals, and other internal stakeholders.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments simultaneously, prioritize competing deadlines, and work effectively in a fast‑paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment while also handling assignments independently.
• Strong research and analytical skills, including the ability to compile and organize information from multiple internal resources.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Experience with CRM and/or proposal management tools preferred.
• Familiarity with proposal management and procurement portals (Persuit, Ariba, Bonfire, JusticeBid, etc.) preferred.
• Positive, proactive, and client-service-oriented approach with a willingness to learn and contribute to team success.
• Flexibility to manage occasional time-sensitive assignments outside of standard business hours, as needed.

We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, marital status or any other characteristics protected by law.