Business Development Manager

SUMMARY:
Our client is a leading global law firm with a presence in over 80 countries, offering clients access to deep local insight combined with international expertise. Renowned for its innovative approach and sector-focused legal solutions, the firm supports clients in navigating complex legal and business landscapes across diverse markets.

Our client is looking for a Business Development Manager based in Johannesburg or Cape Town.

POSITION INFO:
Our client is seeking a dynamic, strategic, and results-driven Business Development Manager to join their accomplished team at one of South Africa’s premier law firms. This key role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-moving, intellectually rich environment. You’ll be instrumental in designing and executing sector-focused growth strategies—ranging from high-impact legal colloquiums and thought leadership initiatives to sophisticated client engagement programs.
Working closely with our Partners, Sector Leads, and Practice Group Leaders, you'll help shape the firm's business development direction, enhance our brand visibility, strengthen client relationships, and support strategic expansion across core industries.

The client is specifically seeking candidates with experience in Business Development, Marketing, or Strategy, preferably from the commercial or banking sectors. Their intention is to identify individuals looking to transition into legal strategy, rather than those with a traditional legal background.

KEY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY
Sector Strategy & Development

• Partner with Practice Group Leaders to develop and implement targeted sector business plans.
• Pinpoint high-growth opportunities and promote collaboration across legal practices.
• Build internal frameworks such as competitive analysis, client targeting, and market research.
• Take the lead or support on strategic proposals and RFPs in priority sectors.

• Lead the ideation and end-to-end execution of large-scale, multi-regional colloquiums and client-focused events.
• Handle everything from conceptual planning and speaker coordination to delegate engagement, venue logistics, and post-event analysis.
• Collaborate with attorneys to convert legal developments into timely, client-relevant content.
• Maintain a firm-wide annual events calendar aligned with strategic business goals.
• Monitor the effectiveness of events through follow-up strategies and reporting.

• Support key account strategies, including client mapping, relationship development, and account growth plans.
• Work with legal teams to develop compelling pitch materials and client presentations.
• Analyse client feedback to refine the firm’s service offerings.
• Identify cross-selling opportunities across the client base.
• Assist in producing firm credentials, capability statements, and legal directory submissions.

• Ensure all business development activities align with the overall marketing and brand strategy.
• Lead the Business Development and Marketing team in delivering sector-specific campaigns, content, and digital outreach.
• Oversee the production of newsletters, thought pieces, and social media aligned with strategic priorities.
• Create and maintain persuasive firm-wide marketing materials, including brochures and pitch decks.
• Track ROI on key initiatives and present performance reports to leadership

• Partner with the firm’s leadership—including the Chairman and Sector Heads—to maintain alignment on strategic priorities.
• Share insights, data, and performance updates with senior stakeholders.
• Promote knowledge sharing across teams and geographies.
• Equip partners and associates with the tools and training needed to enhance their BD effectiveness.
• Define and report on success metrics for business development initiatives.

• A degree in Marketing, Law, Business, Communications, or a related field.
• 5–7 years of experience in business development or client-facing roles, ideally within professional services, finance, or commercial sectors.
• Proven track record in managing sector campaigns, thought leadership programs, and events.
• Solid grasp of the South African and broader African business environment.

• Strong project and event management abilities.
• Excellent communication, relationship-building, and presentation skills.
• Commercially astute with a strategic, proactive mindset.
• Confident in engaging with senior leaders and stakeholders.
• Technologically proficient, particularly in Microsoft Office.