Proposal Manager

About the role

The Proposal Manager plays a crucial role within the Business Development & Marketing Department, collaborating with the Business Development team to lead and manage complex pitches and Request for Proposals (RFPs).

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Director of Proposals, Business Development Managers, attorneys, and departments across the Firm to evaluate RFP opportunities, identify key response contributors, and shape content approach and positioning.
• Support go/no-go decisions by assessing RFP requirements, Firm capabilities, competitive dynamics, and resource demands, and provide clear recommendations to BD leadership and attorneys.
• Lead complex and high-stakes RFP responses, including assigning components across Firm departments, running attorney kick-off and status calls, overseeing project timelines, developing drafts according to RFP requirements, and crafting client-focused messaging that articulates the Firm’s value proposition.
• Draft, review, and refine original proposal and pitch content – including executive summaries, cover letters, and other tailored materials – exercising independent judgment to ensure quality, consistency, and strict compliance with all RFP requirements.
• Make strategic judgment calls regarding content, format, and the involvement of key Firm departments.
• Translate attorney input and legal concepts into clear, compelling, and client-focused proposal messaging, ensuring Firm capabilities and value are communicated effectively to prospective clients.
• Serve as a core resource for proposal best practices, leading training, onboarding, and professional development for the Business Development Support Team and guiding team members on large-scale, specialized, and high-visibility proposals.
• Track and manage RFP and pitch activity using DealCloud, Foundation, and related tools to support reporting, efficient processes, and continuous content improvement.
• Partner with the Director of Proposals and Business Development Managers to conduct post-submission debriefs and win/loss analyses, capturing feedback and trends to inform future proposal strategy and content improvements.
• Liaise with Knowledge Management to procure and analyze competitive intelligence, industry research, and corporate information, helping attorneys and BD leaders translate data into compelling proposal messaging.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in marketing, business, communications or a related field.
• A minimum of five years of related work experience, preferably in the legal marketing or professional services industry.
• Strong writing, editing, and proofreading capabilities.
• Excellent interpersonal communication and analytical skills.
• Detail-focused; high level of accuracy is a must.
• Strong customer service skills, including the ability to anticipate needs and exercise sound judgment.
• Outstanding project management and organizational skills.
• Ability to prioritize deadlines, stay poised under pressure, and multi-task with a high volume of work in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to solve problems, analyze situations and suggest appropriate solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to work with individuals at all levels across the Firm as well as within the Business Development and Marketing Department.
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment.
• Must be self-motivated, resourceful, and reliable with a strong work ethic and positive attitude.
• Ability to maintain professional standards of confidentiality, tact, and discretion.