Senior Business Development Manager

Thisismkg; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Thisismkg is seeking a talented Client Development & Strategy Manager for their Los Angeles office. This role involves leading pitch teams, developing strategic thinking for new business, and managing the pitch process from start to finish. The ideal candidate will have 7+ years of relevant experience, with expertise in winning pitches and strong strategic vision. This position also requires collaboration across teams and adaptability to changing business needs. Potential for full-time conversion after an initial four-month term.

Qualifications

• 7+ years relevant experience, with at least 3+ years of new business marketing experience.
• Strong track record of leading/winning experiential pitches.
• Ability to turn ambiguity into actionable plans.

Responsibilities

• Lead pitch teams to develop strategic thinking for new business.
• Own pitch processes from RFP to proposal delivery.
• Shape strategy that aligns client briefs with agency capabilities.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Client relationship management

Pitch development

Brand marketing

Fluency in AI and emerging tools

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Job description

Located in NYC and LA. Candidates should be within commuting distance of either office and will need to be available for in-person collaboration on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

This position will begin with a four‑month short‑term position before converting to full time.

OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE

MKG is seeking a talented and versatile Client Development & Strategy Manager to join our team. This person will lead pitch teams in developing and delivering strategic thinking that positions the agency to win new business. The ideal candidate is able to work independently, balance big‑picture thinking with attention to detail, and stay at the forefront of industry trends and innovation.

Strong experience in new business, strategy, and brand marketing is required. Candidates should have a strong track record of leading/winning pitches, with demonstrable strategic leadership and passion for delivering and executing innovative ideas and experiences.

WHAT YOU WILL DO IN THIS ROLE

Own the pitch + build a compelling and resilient client roster.

• Help lead the agency’s new business efforts across priority categories, prospects, and partners
• Own the pitch process end‑to‑end, from RFP through proposal delivery and close
• Serve as the senior client‑facing lead in pitch meetings, workshops, and presentations
• Shape strategy and narratives that align client briefs and marketing opportunities with agency capabilities and goals
• Oversee pitch scoping, resourcing, timelines, and budgets to ensure feasibility and profitability
• Partner closely with Creative, Production, and Finance to develop standout, bullet‑proof proposals
• Aid in pipeline development, developing leads, tracking opportunities, win/loss insights, and conversion rates
• Identify proactive growth opportunities across existing relationships and industry networks
• Establish best practices for new business processes, tools, and ways of working
• Represent the agency externally through industry presence, thought leadership, and relationship‑building
• This role may require occasional travel and flexibility to work non‑traditional hours, including evenings and weekends, as business needs arise

REQUIREMENTS

WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THIS ROLE

A competitive streak and a genuine love of the win. You know how to read a room, trust your gut, and make smart moves fast.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent and 7+ years relevant experience, with at least 3+ years of new business marketing experience
• A track record of leading and landing experiential pitches that people talk about (and clients buy)
• Sharp strategic thinking with a creative edge—and the financial savvy to back it up
• Fluency in AI and emerging tools, plus a strong point of view on how they can supercharge strategy, unlock insights, and level up pitch storytelling
• Confidence showing up in big moments—presenting to senior stakeholders and thriving in high‑stakes settings
• A knack for turning ambiguity into clear direction, actionable plans, and momentum