Job Description
Most law firms’ work lies in research, litigation, and, when appropriate, trials. That said, just like most any business, a law firm needs to market itself to get its name and brand out, grow its business, and get and retain clientele.
The position of Business Development Manager plays a central role in this aspect of a law firm. He or she typically heads up the firm’s marketing and public relations functions, which can range from sponsoring local events to advertising on all mediums to locating potential clients and winning and retaining them.
All of these aspects, and so many more, come together to form the overall business development strategy of a law firm. Right at the center is a team member who needs to be both creative and analytical: the Business Development Manager.
Typical Duties and Responsibilities
- Develop and execute business development, marketing, and external communications programs
- Manage the development of client-specific pitch materials
- Plan and support business development events, including seminars, webinars, and dinners
- Provide strategic business development advice to law firm leadership and partners focused on the generation of new business leads, expansion of existing clients, and new projects and initiatives
- Manage and coordinate the firm’s website, newsletter, brochure, and other external communications
- Oversee and assist with the production of marketing materials
Education and Background
This position requires a bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, or a related field; an MBA is preferred. Multiple years of experience in marketing and business development, and previous law firm experience is highly desirable.
Skills and Competencies
- Highly organized
- Able to manage multiple tasks and projects concurrently
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Experience with — and a strong understanding of — marketing and advertising
- Ability to provide consistent and high-quality work under tight deadlines
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
- Excellent time management skills
- Keen attention to detail
Compensation
According to Payscale the median annual salary of a Business Development Manager with
1 Year of Experience:
- Orlando, Florida: $60,000
- Tampa, Florida: $60,000
- Jacksonville, Florida: $55,000
- Miami, Florida: $60,000
- Atlanta, Georgia: $48,000
- Chicago, Illinois: $50,000
- Houston, Texas: $63,000
- Los Angeles, California: $70,000
- New York City, New York: $70,000
- Seattle, Washington: $70,000
- Overall: $60,000
5 Years of Experience:
- Orlando, Florida: $70,000
- Tampa, Florida: $70,000
- Jacksonville, Florida: $75,000
- Miami, Florida: $70,000
- Atlanta, Georgia: $80,000
- Chicago, Illinois: $80,000
- Houston, Texas: $75,000
- Los Angeles, California: $80,000
- New York City, New York: $90,000
- Seattle, Washington: $90,000
- Overall: $80,000
Similar Job Titles
Career Path
The path to becoming a Business Development Manager begins with obtaining a bachelor’s degree in marketing or communications, or a related field. Beyond that, earning an MBA in one of those fields can help further one’s career possibilities, as can earning certification as a Certified Business Development Manager.
Position Trends
Business development personnel are essential to many businesses, and law firms are no exception. These employees play a valuable part in not only promoting the firm in general to the public but also in finding and retaining clientele.
According to ActiveCampaign, savvy Business Development Managers will need to keep abreast of an ever-expanding number of software options that can be useful to businesses. Also, there’s a definite trend to align a firm’s outbound development calls and communications with their marketing brand and voice, which should strengthen the impact on prospective customers.
Job Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of Marketing Managers (which typically includes business development) is projected to grow eight percent through 2028, faster than the average for all occupations.
Typical Hours
The typical work hours for a Business Development Manager are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday in an office setting.
Where You Can Find Jobs
- 4 Corner Resources
- Career Builder
- Glassdoor
- Indeed
- Monster
Are You Interested in Becoming a Business Development Manager?
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