Manager – Business Development (M&A)

Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation of pitches, responses to RFPs and marketing materials that effectively communicate the Firm's relevant experience and strengths.
• Work with partners and BD colleagues to ensure timely updating of all marketing materials, including practice and individual biography collateral, with new matter descriptions, achievements and other relevant information.
• Oversee and assist with submissions to league tables and other surveys.
• Oversee and assist with drafting of submissions for Chambers USA and other legal directories.
• Conduct research on companies and industries.
• Ensure consistent record-keeping of all BD activity and client outreach.
• Provide guidance and supervision to junior BD team members and assist in developing their skills.
• Work with partners on creating business development plans and executing business development initiatives to generate new business, manage existing and develop new client relationships, and increase visibility.
• Track referral sources and prospective client connections and support partners in maintaining communication with them.
• Guide partners in focusing their entrepreneurial activities on the highest value opportunities.
• Identify new business opportunities and strategic sponsorships tailored to business development goals.
• Collaborate with colleagues across the following teams: Communications, Events, Competitive Intelligence, and Creative Services.

Qualifications

• Prior business development experience supporting M&A or other corporate practices in a top-tier U.S. law firm.
• The ability to work independently and achieve goals with limited supervision and to be a strong team player who can work collaboratively with the global BD team.
• The ability to provide guidance to junior team members and contribute to their professional development.
• Excellent writing, editing, analytical, research and organizational skills, with a high level of attention to detail (a writing and editing test is required).
• The ability to prepare high-quality pitches, proposals, directory submissions and other partner- and client-facing materials.
• Basic proficiency in standard spreadsheet, database, word processing and presentation applications (e.g., Excel, Word, PowerPoint and SharePoint), CRM, experience management and research platforms, and the ability to learn new systems quickly.
• The ability to handle time-sensitive requests from multiple lawyers while generating quality work product in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and a poised, professional manner that conveys confidence and excellent judgment when interacting with the Firm's most senior lawyers and staff.
• The ability to incorporate feedback to improve work and foster professional development.
• A commitment to the highest standards of excellence and professionalism that are the hallmarks of Sullivan & Cromwell's legal practice.