Role Overview
If you are an experienced Business Development Director looking for an opportunity to bring your industry knowledge and strategic relationship management skills to help evolve our business development function, then we would like to meet with you! As the primary marketing and business development liaison for key practice groups, the Director acts as a strategic partner to practice leadership, translating business strategy into actionable marketing and business development initiatives. Bringing proactivity and deep sector knowledge, this role is responsible for identifying high-value engagement opportunities and orchestrating a collaborative pursuit strategy. In partnership with the CMO, this role will also direct the evolution of the firm’s business development function, focusing on talent development and the implementation of scalable Business Development systems. Through leadership of the U.S. Business Development team and oversight of the firm’s BD training program, the position supports the development of a culture of proactive relationship management. At Cornerstone Research, you will be part of a thriving, 1,000-strong team that spans nine offices, comprises more than 55 nationalities, and leads the industry in its commitment to develop team members across all levels. Inc. Magazine has recognized Cornerstone Research three times as a Best Workplace for its outstanding employee engagement, collaborative culture, and professional growth opportunities.
Responsibilities
- Act as the primary Marketing and Business Development (MBD) liaison to practice areas including antitrust and competition, consumer fraud and product liability and healthcare and life sciences, ensuring that all MBD efforts are aligned with business goals.
- Manage and mentor U.S. Business Development team and contribute to the Department leadership team.
- Own the implementation and evolution of the BD training program.
- Develop and maintain a working understanding of the legal areas served by practice consultants, including current issues, trends, key law firms, competitors and areas of strategic focus.
- Partner with practice leadership and other key stakeholders to develop and implement marketing and business development plans and offer guidance on other strategic initiatives.
- Ensure that sponsorships, marketing campaigns, thought leadership and events are developed in a way that reflects each practice’s unique strengths and maximizes the group’s competitive advantage.
- Act as a knowledge management resource for assigned groups, including tracking thought leadership, client presentations, etc., to maximize promotional opportunities for those efforts.
- Attend regular practice group and working group meetings; report on MBD activities and progress against plans.
- Counsel consultants on personal BD goals and provide guidance and support for implementing personal BD plans.
- Work closely with other functions in the Marketing Department, including marketing communications and events, to proactively identify opportunities in their areas.
- Conduct research and analysis including competitive intelligence, client intelligence, trend reporting, and practice-specific needs where needed.
- Support the integration of lateral consultants in assigned practice areas and produce monthly updates on laterals’ progress for firm leadership.
- Help prepare substantive pitch materials where needed.
- Collaborate with other business professionals dedicated to supporting the practice to ensure efficient use of consulting staff time and attention.
Qualifications
- 15+ years of experience in business development, sales, and/or marketing.
- Previous law firm or professional services experience required.
- Prior experience with the assigned practice preferred.
- Demonstrated business development experience is required.
- Strong analytical skills, with a firm understanding of competitive analysis and strategic marketing.
- Demonstrated experience in synthesizing information into concise recommendations and strategic plans.
- Excellent writing, editing and presentation skills.
- Attention to detail and precision in work product are a must.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to develop trusting, credible relationships across organizations are critical.
- Ability to work collaboratively, build consensus around initiatives and bring stakeholders along while remaining focused on results is key.
- AI familiarity and curiosity are required.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs required.
- Knowledge or ability to learn other programs is a requirement.
- The desire to take initiative and actively contribute to the team and the firm.
- The ability to communicate effectively and professionally.
- Strong business acumen and the ability to learn the firm’s financial and operational functions.
- The mindset to provide superior service.
- The ability to commute to our office in Washington, D.C., New York City, Chicago or Boston to comply with our hybrid work policy of 2-3 days per week in office.
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or other related fields of study required.
- An advanced degree is a plus.
Compensation & Benefits
Cornerstone Research is offering a competitive market base salary for this position. The base salary range represents the low and high end of the salary range for this position in all eligible locations. This range may differ based on your geographic location and cost of living considerations.
At Cornerstone Research, we believe compensation is more than just a base salary. We offer a competitive total compensation package that includes an annual performance bonus and comprehensive benefits such as flexible options for healthcare, paid time off, and retirement savings.
Relocation assistance is not offered for this position.
Base salary range: $180,000–$260,000
Equal Employment Opportunity
Cornerstone Research provides Equal Employment Opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to legally protected categories, such as age, sex, gender, gender identity, race, color, creed/religious belief, medical condition, predisposing genetic characteristics or genetic information or testing, disability, marital status, pregnancy status, military status, veteran status, arrest or conviction record (except where permitted by law), sexual orientation, ethnic background, citizen status, ancestry, national origin, or any other consideration protected by federal, state or local law. Cornerstone Research is a leading firm providing economic and financial consulting to attorneys and companies involved in complex commercial litigation and regulatory proceedings. We work with prominent academic and industry experts to provide our clients with state-of-the-art analyses and have a reputation for excellence and effectiveness. Our talented consultants are supported by a passionate team of corporate and administrative professionals. Together, we provide our clients and employees with the highest level of service and work experience. Cornerstone Research is committed to offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please contact Margaret Dondero at or via email The non-confidential portions of the affirmative action program for individuals with disabilities and protected veterans shall be available for inspection upon request by any applicant for employment by contacting Elena Garcia at
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