Senior Business Development Manager (M&A and Private Equity)

We are thrilled to partner with an Am Law top 10 firm in its search for a Senior Business Development Manager to join its market-leading M&A and Private Equity practices. Based in either New York or Chicago, you will play a critical role in driving the strategic goals of the practice leadership for the groups, working closely alongside attorneys and other members of the global Business Development, Marketing & Communications team.

We would love to speak with individuals with Business Development and Marketing experience within a law firm or professional services firm. Prior experience supporting the M&A vertical is ideal.

We’re happy to engage first-time Senior Managers, or current Senior Managers with 1-2 years in the position.

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Lead and support strategic client and business development planning, using market and client insights to identify growth opportunities and strengthen client relationships.
• Oversee the delivery of high‑quality, tailored pitches and proposals, ensuring alignment with client needs, market trends, and firm strategy.
• Drive practice and partner positioning through thought leadership, external profile‑raising, and collaboration with marketing and communications teams.
• Act as a central liaison across practice groups, BD, and business services to promote collaboration, integrated solutions, and effective stakeholder engagement.
• Manage and mentor BD team members, fostering a high‑performance culture and ensuring consistent delivery excellence.
• Monitor BD performance through data, KPIs, and reporting, driving continuous improvement and operational efficiency.
• Maintain strong commercial and industry awareness, while ensuring all BD activity complies with firm policies and regulatory requirements.

If this position is of interest to you, please apply or reach out to nikhita.kumar@ambitionsearch.com!