Senior Business Development Manager

Overview

Kilpatrick, a large international law firm, is seeking a Senior Marketing & Business Development Manager for our Corporate Department in our Chicago office. This position will be part of our team of attorneys, paralegals and support staff providing a high level of service to both internal and external clients. At Kilpatrick we are one team where each person plays an integral role in serving the needs of our clients.

The firm has a strong dedication to its employees, values, and commitment to the community.

This position will support our Corporate Department, with primary responsibility for the Firm's General Corporate, Mergers & Acquisitions, and Securities (MASC) Team. The Senior Marketing & Business Development Manager will play a critical role in driving the department's marketing, business development, and communications initiatives. Working closely with department leaders, team leaders, partners, and Firm leadership, this position is responsible for the development and execution of integrated marketing and business development strategies that advance the market position of the Corporate Department and MASC Team, enhance client relationships, and support revenue growth.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Lead the development and execution of the Corporate Department and MASC Team marketing and business development plans in alignment with the Firm's Strategic Plan and business objectives.
• Collaborate with department chairs, team leaders, and partners to identify growth opportunities, set strategic priorities, and monitor progress through regular meetings (quarterly with department chairs and bi-monthly with team leaders).
• Design and implement strategies to expand existing client relationships and develop new business in targeted markets and practice areas.
• Serve as the primary contact for marketing and business development initiatives within the Corporate Department and MASC Team and as a liaison with other departments, offices, and Firm leadership.

• Develop and manage account plans for key clients at the Department level and for designated teams, including identification of whitespace opportunities, cross-practice growth, and client penetration strategies.
• Support the implementation of the client experience (CX) program, facilitate client feedback mechanisms, and synthesize insights into actionable service improvements.
• Organize and execute bespoke client events, sponsor ships, speaking engagements, and high-profile Firm events to strengthen client relationships.
• Coordinate integrated pursuit strategies for major RFPs and panel opportunities, oversee debriefs and lessons learned, and manage the department's submissions for directories and awards (e.g., Chambers, Legal 500, Best Lawyers).

• Oversee the development, curation, and updating of marketing collateral, including proposals, pitch materials, client alerts, presentations, and website content, ensuring compliance with Firm brand guidelines.
• Collaborate with the Communications and Creative Services teams to create thought leadership assets, digital and print advertising, and campaign materials for the Corporate Department.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activities, and industry developments to inform content strategy and identify opportunities for proactive media engagement.

• Lead the deployment and utilization of marketing technology applications (CRM/ERM, event management, proposal generation, etc.) within the Corporate Department.
• Track and report on key performance indicators, including ROI for marketing and business development activities, budget performance, and progress against strategic objectives.
• Provide regular updates to Firm leadership and management committees on departmental marketing and business development activities.

• Manage, mentor, and support the professional development of coordinator-level marketing and business development team members.
• Interface with Director of Business Development, Associate Director of Business Development, and other senior managers to ensure cross-team collaboration and best practices.
• Provide input on promotion and compensation decisions for team members.

KNOWLEDGE/

SKILLS REQUIRED:

• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree in Business, Marketing, Communications, or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years' experience in legal or professional services marketing, with at least 5 years in a manager-level business development/marketing role within the legal sector.
• Proven track record of developing and executing successful marketing and business development strategies for corporate or transactional practice groups.
• Experience managing budgets, reporting on ROI, and supporting strategic plan implementation.
• High level of emotional intelligence, professionalism, and responsiveness in client-facing and internal interactions.
• Occasional travel may be…