Senior Business Development Manager
Location: Hybrid | UK-wide
Sector: Legal / Professional Services
A leading full-service UK law firm is seeking an experienced and ambitious Senior Business Development Manager ready for their next step) to spearhead new client acquisition and commercial growth across its Business Clients Division.
This high-impact role reports directly to the Chief Marketing Officer and works closely with Partners and senior stakeholders to strengthen client relationships, drive profitable expansion, and position the firm as a market leader in the legal services sector.
The Opportunity
The successful candidate will take ownership of the division’s business development strategy — shaping plans, leading a high-performing team, and ensuring the firm continues to win and retain major clients across the private sector.
Key responsibilities include:
* Leading the division’s new business and client acquisition strategy in line with firmwide commercial goals
* Developing and delivering targeted business plans that attract and retain private sector clients
* Partnering with senior lawyers to identify cross-selling opportunities and grow key accounts
* Managing and motivating a team of BD professionals to deliver measurable, high-quality outcomes
* Overseeing end-to-end pitch, proposal, and tender activity for strategic opportunities
* Championing data-led decision making using CRM and management information tools
* Representing the firm at industry events, networking forums, and client engagements
This is a role for a commercially minded, relationship-driven leader who enjoys spotting opportunities, influencing senior stakeholders, and delivering tangible results.
Skills & Qualifications
Essential:
* Significant experience in senior business development within professional services
* Proven leadership skills with the ability to inspire and develop teams
* Strong commercial awareness and understanding of private sector market dynamics
* Demonstrated success in winning new business and expanding client accounts
* Excellent communication, influencing, and stakeholder management capabilities
* Experience leading strategic pitches, proposals, and client pursuits
* Strong analytical and data-driven approach to planning and performance measurement
* Confident, credible presence in client-facing environments
Desirable:
* Experience implementing CRM systems and data-led BD strategies
* Degree or professional qualification in marketing, business, or a related field
* Established network within the business or legal services community
Life at the Firm
The firm is known for its forward-looking, entrepreneurial culture and its commitment to helping clients navigate complex challenges with confidence and clarity. With offices across the UK — including Cardiff, London, Manchester, Southampton and Plymouth — the business serves a broad range of clients from large corporates and financial institutions to public sector bodies, utilities, education providers and fast-growing private companies.
Collegiate, ambitious and values-driven, the firm places equal importance on professional excellence, community impact, and supporting its people. Charity partnerships, volunteering initiatives, and local fundraising efforts are central to everyday life across the business.