Business Development Specialist (Private Equity & Investment Management)

Position Summary

The Business Development team supports the firm across a broad spectrum of new business and client relationship-building activities, including the creation of new business proposals and firm marketing materials, upkeep of the databases that track firm experience and client information, competitive and market intelligence, and coordination of client events.

The Business Development Specialist works closely with partners and other lawyers in our Private Equity and Investment Management practices, as well as working closely with the Business Development (Senior) Manager to drive and develop the implementation of business and client development initiatives. The Specialist will also assist with client pitches, RFP’s, presentations and business development activities, events, sponsorships, legal rankings, league table submissions and other activities. The Specialist will have an understanding of Investment Management, Private Funds and Private Equity and will deepen this knowledge in the role. The ideal candidate will view this as a long-term position with opportunity for growth and progression.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Typical responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Strategic management and review of content development for targeted presentations, proposals and pitch materials
• Manage complex pitch requests and RFPs
• Manage the drafting and submission of content for numerous legal directories, awards and related industry guides (e.g., Chambers, Legal 500, IFLR)
• Manage print and digital marketing materials to ensure content reflects substantive strengths, accomplishments and current activities
• Manage league table process/relationships to ensure effective and timely submission
• Maintain matter databases for precedent, marketing and business development purposes
• Monitor and evaluate BD efforts and initiatives within investment management and private equity space
• Prepare and maintain competitive analysis, including analyzing client’s and competitor’s market trends. Leverage relevant industry research and news databases and resources (e.g., S&P Capital IQ, LSEG, Bloomberg, Mergermarket and Pitchbook) to monitor, research and report on market trends and insights, competitor activity, existing and prospective client developments.
• Identify, plan and manage sponsorship of and participation in select conference, events and client galas
• Collaborate with the PR and Marketing teams to promote the practice internally and externally

Qualifications/Position Requirements

• The ideal candidate should have the ability to think broadly and demonstrate a high level of initiative
• Strong project development and management skills and a creative, solutions-oriented mindset
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office with advanced MS Excel skills
• Working knowledge of CRM/Experience Management Software, such as InterAction, Foundation or Content Pilot and/or transaction/private funds platforms (Preqin, PitchBook, Capital IQ, LSEG, etc.)
• Advanced research and analytical thinking skills
• Ability to prioritize, organize and meet multiple projects deadlines at one time
• High sense of responsibility, accountability, and focus on responsiveness
• Must be outgoing, comfortable demonstrating initiative, and able to think critically and creatively

Education and/or Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree required, Finance or Marketing preferred
• 3-6 years of either legal business development / marketing experience OR financial analysis experience within Private Equity/Investment Management

Compensation

The expected base salary for this position ranges from $100,000 - $120,000. Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, anticipated assignment, and, where applicable, licensure or certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. Davis Polk offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.