Specialist, Business Development (Transactional)
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP, Chicago, IL, United States
Position Overview
We are seeking a Specialist, Business Development (Transactional) to join our Chicago office on a hybrid basis. In this role, the Specialist will work closely with the Business Development Assistant Director to support business growth and strengthen the firm’s market presence by deepening existing client relationships and identifying opportunities to cultivate new ones. The Specialist will help coordinate and execute business development initiatives in partnership with cross‑functional teams, including Marketing, Communications, Events, and Strategic Intelligence. This role also collaborates closely with the global Business Development team to drive market engagement and deliver exceptional client service.
Responsibilities
Project manage and execute pitches, proposals, and RFPs, including collaborating with a team to develop a winning strategy, identifying ways to differentiate from the competition, and helping to write aspects of the pitch.
Maintain accountability for the timely and accurate completion and submission of the RFPs or pitches, ensuring proper document storage and tracking, and establishing and executing appropriate follow‑up action steps post‑submission.
Maintain up‑to‑date pitch content, practice materials, client information and experience tracking.
Client Targeting and Client Growth
Support the Assistant Director and Sr. Manager, M&A and Global BD Director, including the identification of targets and the appropriate routes to market.
Assist Assistant Director and Sr. Manager M&A in identifying opportunities to cross‑sell to existing clients of the firm and drive forward campaigns and initiatives to grow client relationships.
Event and Engagement Management
Assist with strategic planning and execution of client events and speaking engagements (in collaboration with BD Sr Manager and global events team).
Analyze attendee lists and prepare tailored materials to enhance engagement.
Support attorney follow‑up and track outcomes and activities in the CRM system to ensure effective event management and client interaction.
Operational Efficiency and Communication
Follow recommended guidelines and practices to enhance efficiency, customer service, and employee relations, aligning with the Firm's Core Values.
Develop and communicate departmental guidelines and procedures, ensuring accurate and timely responses to service requests.
Demonstrate effective interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills to facilitate effective work relationships with others.
Manage Firm resources responsibly.
Maintain regular and reliable physical presence to work as part of a team, meet with clients, use on‑site equipment, etc.
Comply with and understand Firm operation, policies and procedures.
Perform other related duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Strong knowledge of relevant firm computer software programs (e.g., InterAction, Foundation, MS Office including PowerPoint, Word, and Excel)
Maintain current knowledge of industry best practices, trends and techniques
Demonstrate strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines and stay productive in a fast‑paced environment
Demonstrate precise attention to details, with superior proofreading and fact‑checking skills
Demonstrate a professional demeanor, high emotional intelligence, cultural sensitivity and ability to interact effectively with all levels
Demonstrate an ability to continuously improve and innovate (e.g., regularly improve existing content and design of pitch and proposal materials)
Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, organizational, and planning skills
Ability to develop a deep understanding of the Firm's business
Ability to develop relationships and collaborate with stakeholders
Ability to learn new software, systems, databases, and procedures quickly
Ability to work well in a demanding and fast‑paced environment
Ability to use discretion and exercise independent and sound judgment
Flexibility to travel and attend key events and meetings on occasion
Flexibility to adjust hours and work the hours necessary to meet operating and business needs
Education and Experience
Bachelor's degree
Minimum of three years of related experience in a law firm or professional services environment
Benefits
Competitive salaries and year‑end discretionary bonuses.
Comprehensive health care (medical, dental, vision), savings plan/401(k) and voluntary benefits.
Generous paid time off.
Paid leave options, including parental.
In‑classroom, remote, and on‑demand learning and professional development opportunities.
Robust well‑being classes and programs.
Opportunities to give back and make an impact in local communities.
Salary Details
$95,000-105,000
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Skadden is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It does not discriminate against applicants or employees based on any legally impermissible factor including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual and reproductive health decisions, disability, any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, or stalking.
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We are seeking a Specialist, Business Development (Transactional) to join our Chicago office on a hybrid basis. In this role, the Specialist will work closely with the Business Development Assistant Director to support business growth and strengthen the firm’s market presence by deepening existing client relationships and identifying opportunities to cultivate new ones. The Specialist will help coordinate and execute business development initiatives in partnership with cross‑functional teams, including Marketing, Communications, Events, and Strategic Intelligence. This role also collaborates closely with the global Business Development team to drive market engagement and deliver exceptional client service.
Responsibilities
Project manage and execute pitches, proposals, and RFPs, including collaborating with a team to develop a winning strategy, identifying ways to differentiate from the competition, and helping to write aspects of the pitch.
Maintain accountability for the timely and accurate completion and submission of the RFPs or pitches, ensuring proper document storage and tracking, and establishing and executing appropriate follow‑up action steps post‑submission.
Maintain up‑to‑date pitch content, practice materials, client information and experience tracking.
Client Targeting and Client Growth
Support the Assistant Director and Sr. Manager, M&A and Global BD Director, including the identification of targets and the appropriate routes to market.
Assist Assistant Director and Sr. Manager M&A in identifying opportunities to cross‑sell to existing clients of the firm and drive forward campaigns and initiatives to grow client relationships.
Event and Engagement Management
Assist with strategic planning and execution of client events and speaking engagements (in collaboration with BD Sr Manager and global events team).
Analyze attendee lists and prepare tailored materials to enhance engagement.
Support attorney follow‑up and track outcomes and activities in the CRM system to ensure effective event management and client interaction.
Operational Efficiency and Communication
Follow recommended guidelines and practices to enhance efficiency, customer service, and employee relations, aligning with the Firm's Core Values.
Develop and communicate departmental guidelines and procedures, ensuring accurate and timely responses to service requests.
Demonstrate effective interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills to facilitate effective work relationships with others.
Manage Firm resources responsibly.
Maintain regular and reliable physical presence to work as part of a team, meet with clients, use on‑site equipment, etc.
Comply with and understand Firm operation, policies and procedures.
Perform other related duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Strong knowledge of relevant firm computer software programs (e.g., InterAction, Foundation, MS Office including PowerPoint, Word, and Excel)
Maintain current knowledge of industry best practices, trends and techniques
Demonstrate strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines and stay productive in a fast‑paced environment
Demonstrate precise attention to details, with superior proofreading and fact‑checking skills
Demonstrate a professional demeanor, high emotional intelligence, cultural sensitivity and ability to interact effectively with all levels
Demonstrate an ability to continuously improve and innovate (e.g., regularly improve existing content and design of pitch and proposal materials)
Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, organizational, and planning skills
Ability to develop a deep understanding of the Firm's business
Ability to develop relationships and collaborate with stakeholders
Ability to learn new software, systems, databases, and procedures quickly
Ability to work well in a demanding and fast‑paced environment
Ability to use discretion and exercise independent and sound judgment
Flexibility to travel and attend key events and meetings on occasion
Flexibility to adjust hours and work the hours necessary to meet operating and business needs
Education and Experience
Bachelor's degree
Minimum of three years of related experience in a law firm or professional services environment
Benefits
Competitive salaries and year‑end discretionary bonuses.
Comprehensive health care (medical, dental, vision), savings plan/401(k) and voluntary benefits.
Generous paid time off.
Paid leave options, including parental.
In‑classroom, remote, and on‑demand learning and professional development opportunities.
Robust well‑being classes and programs.
Opportunities to give back and make an impact in local communities.
Salary Details
$95,000-105,000
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Skadden is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It does not discriminate against applicants or employees based on any legally impermissible factor including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual and reproductive health decisions, disability, any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, or stalking.
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