Sr Manager, Market Development

At K&L Gates, we are looking for smart, imaginative and hard-working people with diverse backgrounds, experiences and ideas to join us. We are seeking a Market Development Senior Manager (MDSM) to join either our Austin, Dallas or Houston office. The MDSM is part of the Client Growth team and will focus on developing and executing marketing and business development programs to support the Texas market and other relevant initiatives.

About the role

The Market Development Senior Manager will serve as a strategic partner to the Office Managing Partners of the Texas offices and offer strategic market development advice to other Client Growth team members. The role involves building brand awareness, community and lawyer engagement, client development, and contributing to office, practice, and industry growth goals. Candidates must be proven self-starters who can work independently and as part of a team, with excellent communication skills and a commitment to high-quality client service.

Key relationships include the Global Strategic Growth Partner, Office Managing Partners, Market Development Director, Client Engagement Director, and other members of the Client Growth team.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement business development aspects of strategic office plans and budgets to support office growth goals, including independent and proactive execution and coordination of Client Growth and firm resources.
• Maintain strong knowledge of the Texas market (and regional nuances) and key industries, including business trends and the competitive landscape for legal services.
• Identify business expansion opportunities and develop initiatives by matching firm solutions to client needs within specific markets and/or industries.
• Drive partnerships with local organizations and develop entertainment and educational events to deliver value, visibility, and opportunity in the local market.
• Foster a culture of business development in the offices through communications, individual support, trainings, and other efforts.
• Create connections across regions and programs that can be leveraged across multiple markets.
• Assist in the development of local office PR and advertising, and lead local external relations efforts.
• Collaborate with other Client Growth teams (e.g., Pitches and Proposals, Events, Brand Marketing and Communications, Competitive Intelligence) and practice/industry business development leaders to deliver meaningful programming.
• Develop direct report team members, if applicable, through guidance, coaching, and feedback for professional growth.
• Measure and track initiatives, providing regular reporting.
• Co-develop programs for lead generation, development, and tracking.
• Assist in orienting new lateral attorneys to the office and firm.
• Undertake other projects as assigned.
• Occasionally adjust work schedule to meet deadlines and manage confidential issues.

Requirements

• Minimum of eight years of marketing, business development, and/or sales experience in a professional services firm or closely related environment, preferably within a large national or international firm.
• MBA or similar graduate-level degree preferred but not required.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the global marketplace for professional services.
• High level of maturity and confidence to interact with sophisticated internal and external clients.
• Proven ability to influence senior stakeholders and set strategy to meet market development objectives.
• Outstanding communication and project management skills.
• Exceptional emotional intelligence and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong judgment, decision-making, and follow-through capabilities.
• Excellent organizational and planning skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Attention to detail, flexibility, and creativity.
• Collaborative team player who is also self-motivated and can work independently with minimal supervision.
• Proficiency in Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Internet research tools; knowledge of CRM software is a plus.

About the firm

K&L Gates is a fully integrated global law firm with lawyers located in more than 40 offices. We have experienced significant growth in the past decade and now rank among the largest U.S.-based law firms in the world. We pride ourselves on innovation, imagination, and an entrepreneurial spirit, guiding clients through complex issues across various industry sectors and regions. Our global community is aligned on behalf of our clients, fostering an inclusive and socially conscious environment that embraces diversity and supports career evolution.

Pay

Salary range: $112,000 - $200,000 per year. Compensation will be determined during the interview process based on prior experience, relevant expertise, current business needs, and market factors.

Benefits

• Medical, prescription drug, and dental insurance (including a Health Savings Account feature).
• Vision insurance and wellness program.
• Pre-tax commuting benefits and 401(k) retirement plan with profit sharing.
• Business travel accident insurance and short- and long-term disability protection.
• Life insurance (including basic, supplemental, spouse, child, and accidental death and dismemberment).
• Pet insurance and health advocacy services.
• Paid time off (25-30 days per year) and 12 paid holidays.
• Identity protection/restoration and fraud insurance.
• Parental leave (18 weeks, with 6 weeks paid; short-term disability may provide additional paid time off).
• Student loan refinancing options and access to a student loan concierge service.
• Addiction resources and family-building benefits.
• Breast milk delivery and lactation support services.
• Flexible spending accounts and 529 deductions.
• Relocation accident insurance and critical illness insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program and professional development/CLE credit opportunities.
• Hybrid/remote work opportunities and hospital indemnity insurance.
• Technology, entertainment, and travel discount programs.
• Bereavement leave and all other legally required benefits.