Business Development Manager - Emerging Companies and Venture Capital

Business Development Manager

A leading, full-service international law firm is seeking a Business Development Manager for its San Francisco or Palo Alto office to support its emerging company and venture capital practice. The Manager builds relationships with founders, early-stage startups, university and accelerator programs, technology industry groups, and venture and seed investors, serving as a spokesperson for the firm's services and value proposition to the startup ecosystem.

Responsibilities include tracking market activity and CRM data, researching prospective clients and industry trends, screening potential clients for fit, and mapping relationships with investors to identify referral opportunities. The Manager also works closely with partners to report on progress and leads, drives practice group business development including pitches, RFPs, and events, and oversees marketing initiatives such as thought leadership, social media, and directory/award submissions.

The role additionally supports lateral partner onboarding and practice group strategic planning.

Candidates should bring deep familiarity with startup culture and the venture capital industry, knowledge of transactional practice areas (M&A, private equity, capital markets), existing relationships in the Bay Area startup ecosystem, and strong networking and communication skills. A bachelor's degree is required, along with eight or more years of relevant experience and at least three years in venture capital, accelerator/incubator, or business-development work.

The hiring range is $185,900–$232,400 annually.