Business Development Manager - M&A and PE
About The Position
Based in Dallas, the Business Development Manager will lead business development, marketing, and visibility initiatives for Gibson Dunn’s M&A and Private Equity practices. Working closely with partners, the Director of Business Development, and colleagues across the firm, the Manager will translate practice and partner priorities into actionable plans to strengthen client relationships and pursue new business. The role oversees pitches and proposals, develops practice materials, coordinates targeted client outreach and visibility initiatives, supports other transactional practices and lawyers as needed, and contributes to the development of junior team members. The position reports to the Director, BD.
Requirements
- University degree.
- 5–7 years of experience in professional services; legal experience is preferred.
- Exceptional professional interpersonal skills and ability to interact with lawyers at varying levels, including firm leadership.
- Strong written communication skills.
- Strong project management and time management skills.
- Solid understanding of the needs and expectations of law firms and ability to work in an environment with shifting priorities and many constituents.
- Ability to work under pressure.
- Exceptional proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Outlook, Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
- Outstanding problem-solving skills.
- Attention to detail.
- Ability to work outside business hours and travel occasionally as needed.
Nice To Haves
- 2+ years of team management experience.
- Experience with strategic business development planning and pitching.
- Transactional knowledge.
- Legal experience.
Responsibilities
- Develop and execute business development plans for the M&A and Private Equity practices and assigned regions, aligned with practice priorities and individual partner objectives.
- Support key client initiatives and collaborate with colleagues across practices and offices to deepen relationships, expand work with existing clients, and pursue prospective clients.
- Lead the strategy, preparation, and delivery of tailored pitches, proposals, and other client-facing materials, partnering with the RFP team as appropriate.
- Coordinate internal strategy sessions and debriefs, track outcomes, and manage follow-up.
- Oversee the development and maintenance of practice materials, including standard pitch decks, deal lists, matter descriptions, and other credentials, ensuring content is accurate, current, and readily available.
- Collaborate with communications, digital marketing, and other colleagues to identify and pursue speaking opportunities, media visibility, awards, and legal directory recognition.
- Plan and oversee client events, seminars, conferences, sponsorships, and other targeted marketing activities with the events team and relevant colleagues.
- Assist the Director with team management, including mentoring junior team members and supporting their professional development.
- Lead additional department and firm projects as assigned.
Benefits
- Health care
- Retirement benefits
- Paid days off, including sick time and vacation time
- Parental leave
- Basic life insurance
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Discretionary, performance-based bonuses
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
