Sr Business Development Mgr (FIG) Hybrid

We are seeking a commercially astute and highly experienced Senior Business Development Manager to be the BD Lead for the Financial Industry Group's (FIG) business development function. This strategically significant role is responsible for shaping and executing the group's growth agenda, enhancing market presence, and driving revenue generation through innovative business development and marketing initiatives. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in the financial services sector, exceptional leadership capabilities, and a proven record of delivering results in a professional services environment.

This role is central to the group's success, providing strategic direction and oversight to a high-performing, commercially focused business development team based in the UK and US. The Senior Business Development Manager will act as a trusted advisor to practice group leadership, leveraging market intelligence and firm strengths to identify and capitalize on new business opportunities.

Success in this position requires a blend of strategic vision, commercial acumen, and operational excellence, as well as the ability to build strong relationships with attorneys and stakeholders across the firm. The role is integral to the global marketing and business development team, contributing to the firm's overall growth and reputation.

The Firm

Reed Smith is a dynamic international law firm, renowned for its deep industry knowledge, market-leading client service, and commitment to innovation. With a team of 3,000 professionals – including more than 1,700 lawyers – across 31 offices in the United States, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, we operate as one global partnership dedicated to driving progress for our clients, our people, and our communities.

Our Financial Industry Group (FIG) is the largest of our five industry groups and stands at the forefront of advising clients in the financial services sector. We provide strategic, commercial, and regulatory guidance to a diverse client base that includes domestic and global banks, investment banks, funds, investment management companies, advisors, and multinational corporations. FIG’s experience spans the entire financial services sector, with core areas of excellence including restructuring and insolvency, financial regulation, financial services litigation, fund finance, private credit, real estate finance, corporate trust, and structured finance.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Planning and Execution: Partner with industry leaders to develop, implement, and monitor the FIG business plan, ensuring alignment with firmwide objectives and timely execution of strategic priorities. Lead the design and delivery of business development strategies that drive growth, market share, and client engagement. Provide ongoing strategic counsel to attorneys and industry group members, ensuring BD initiatives are aligned with group and firm goals. Continuously assess and refine activities with data-driven recommendations.
• Market Positioning and Profile Enhancement: Monitor industry trends, competitor activity, and regulatory changes to inform strategic decision-making and identify new business opportunities. Elevate the group’s market profile through targeted campaigns, thought leadership, events, sponsorships, and media engagement. Collaborate with PR and external agencies to implement a comprehensive media and communications plan and oversee legal directory submissions and participation in industry conferences and client seminars.
• Client Development and Revenue Growth: Identify key clients and prospects, developing tailored strategies to deepen relationships and expand opportunities. Lead the preparation of pitches, proposals, and RFP responses with client-focused messaging, and coordinate with partners and the central pitch team. Drive cross-selling with other groups and collaborate with the Client Value Team on pricing strategies and with Finance/Client Intelligence on client reporting.
• Team Leadership and Development: Set objectives and metrics for the FIG BD team, directly manage two BD managers, mentor junior staff, and promote a collaborative, high-performance environment. Share best practices with BD leads from other groups.
• Operational Excellence: Oversee the FIG BD budget, support onboarding of lateral hires, and monitor ROI of BD and marketing initiatives.
• Key Skills, Attributes And Experience: Degree qualified (MBA or further education advantageous). Minimum 7 years in BD/Marketing/Client Relationships within legal, financial services, or professional services. Deep knowledge of financial industry, strong leadership, exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, project management, CRM proficiency, and a collaborative, results-oriented mindset. Demonstrates integrity, discretion, and professionalism. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities.

Direct line management includes two BD managers with overall responsibility for the FIG BD team of seven, plus mentorship for BD professionals in other global offices as required. The role operates a hybrid working model with three days in-office attendance expected, with flexibility to work additional hours as needed.

At Reed Smith, we welcome direct applications. Please click the "Apply Now" button to submit your details. No search firms/agencies, please.

Reed Smith is committed to equal employment opportunity for all, regardless of race, ancestry, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, disability, veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law. We strive to make all stages of recruitment accessible to candidates with disabilities or long-term health conditions. If you require adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact our Recruitment team. For more information on our diversity and inclusion approach, please visit our website.

Seniority level

• Director

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Business Development and Sales

London, England, United Kingdom – 5 days ago