Business Development Manager

Overview of the Firm and Function

Freshfields is a global law firm, providing business law advice of the highest quality. We want to be the law firm that clients turn to for legal advice where it most matters, wherever in the world that may be. The Firm has over 2,400 lawyers in 28 offices around the world, providing a comprehensive service to national and multinational corporations, financial institutions and governments.

Our people make our firm - we are a people business and want to create a welcoming and supportive environment where all can flourish. We see diversity as a strength which creates fresh perspectives and generates new ideas. We enjoy our work and are determined to do an outstanding job. We deliver best when working in teams.

We think and work globally - we don’t just say we are one firm; we act as one firm right across the world. We work wherever our clients need us. This is how we define ourselves, not by reference to where we have offices. Cross-border work isn’t just what we do, it is what we excel at. We understand what it really takes to work across different legal systems and commercial environments and to bridge language and cultural gaps.

We aim to add value in everything we do - we are passionate about helping our clients succeed. We use our experience and creativity to help clients make judgements and achieve their goals. In everything we do, we seek to make a real difference to the communities in which we operate.

About Marketing & Business Development (MBD)

MBD is a dynamic global team which includes business development specialists, research analysts, brand, marketing and communications experts. By working collaboratively, our team shapes the firm’s client strategy, completes analysis of complex business issues, targets opportunities, develops compelling proposals and creates content and marketing campaigns that lead our digital presence. Together, we define the client experience and shape the perception of Freshfields around the globe.

Key responsibilities and deliverables 

As a Business Development Manager within the Financial Institutions Group (FIG), you will play a pivotal role in shaping and executing Freshfields’ US and global business development strategy. Based in New York, you will bring sector-specific knowledge and proactive BD expertise to the heart of our expanding US FIG practice, while also contributing directly to global initiatives. You will work closely with US and international business development colleagues, as well as FIG partners, to drive business growth, deepen client relationships, and deliver high-quality strategic initiatives. 

In this role, you will: 

• Lead and support business development strategy for FIG in the US, with close alignment to the firm’s global FIG priorities. 
• Develop tailored pitches, RFP responses, and panel submissions, ensuring swift, compelling, and client-focused delivery. 
• Manage and enhance key client relationships across major US and global financial institutions, driving engagement and strengthening Freshfields’ sector positioning. 
• Deliver and oversee US-based FIG thought leadership content, events, campaigns, and directory/award submissions to elevate the profile of the practice and its partners. 
• Track client targeting initiatives, relationship mapping, and contact history to generate actionable insights that support strategic business opportunities. 
• Actively contribute US market intelligence and trends to integrate into global FIG initiatives, ensuring industry developments inform the firm’s broader strategy. 
• Collaborate with colleagues across multiple practice groups and international offices to identify cross-border opportunities and drive seamless client service delivery. 
• Coach, mentor, and guide junior team members and regional colleagues, providing leadership and ensuring high-quality execution across live projects. 

This role will require a proactive, strategic mindset with the ability to balance US-focused responsibilities with contributions to global strategy. It represents a unique opportunity to sit at the intersection of local market engagement and international collaboration, driving forward one of Freshfields’ fastest-growing and most outward-facing sectors. 

Key requirements (Communication/skills/experience)

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field
• At least 5 years’ experience working for a professional services firm with a particular focus on corporate – financial services specific experience is preferred
• Strong emotional intelligence, independent thinking and execution, and sound judgment
• Excellent collaboration skills, with a focus on building strong relationships internally and externally
• A high level of attention to detail
• Experience managing multiple US and global stakeholders
• Strong multi-tasking and project management skills and demonstrated capabilities to manage multiple deadlines, changing project criteria and maintaining calm under pressure
• Excellent written, presentation and oral communications skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with tight deadlines and high expectations
• Natural curiosity and dedication to learning; passion to grow into a well-rounded business development practitioner
• Extensive working knowledge of Microsoft Suite software
• Experience with some or all of the following systems is preferred: Foundation, Salesforce and SharePoint.
• Experience with databases such as Pitchbook, Mergermarket, Refinitiv, CapitalIQ, and Preqin a plus.

For individuals assigned and/or hired to work in New York and California or reporting to someone in those states, Freshfields is required by law to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role. This compensation range is specific to the States of New York and California and takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and training; licensure and certifications; and other business and organizational needs. The disclosed range estimate has not been adjusted for the applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled, and compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case. A reasonable estimate of the current range is $140,000 to $180,000.

EEO Statement
Freshfields US LLP is proud to be an equal employment employer. Our policies and practices will be free from unlawful discrimination based upon race, color, ethnicity, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions), national origin, citizenship, immigration status, ancestry, age, marital status, protected veteran status, military service, disability, medical condition, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any basis prohibited under federal, state or local law. We strive to promote an atmosphere that encourages equal opportunities and prohibits discriminatory practices, including sexual harassment.

Disability Accommodation for Applicants to Freshfields US LLP
Freshfields US LLP is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and provides reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans in job application procedures. If you have any difficulty using our online system and you need an accommodation due to a disability, you may use the alternative email address below to contact us about your interest in employment at [email protected] , or you can send your resume to [email protected] , or you can call us at +1-212-277-4000.