Director of Business Development and Client Relations ::

Director of Business Development and Client Relations

Phoenix, Arizona

Commensurate with experience

Lewis and Roca has a great opportunity for an experienced business development professional who will function at the strategic/leadership level and also be a hands-on operational team player. The Business Development and Client Relations Group is a stand-alone group that works together closely with the other elements of the firm. The Director of Business Development and Client Relations is responsible for developing and managing implementation of strategic marketing plans and programs to accomplish the related goals and strategies of the firm and its practice units. The Director reports to the COO, will support the Managing Partner, Practice Group Leaders and various other partners, and will work closely especially with the Marketing Communication and Event Management Groups. The Director of Business Development and Client Relations will supervise a Manager and Project Assistant.

• Propose and develop business development and client relations strategy with the Managing Partner, Practice Groups, and designated specialty practices.
• Guide and assist practice groups, attorneys, and management in the development and implementation of business development and client relations plans and programs.
• Execute, manage, and/or coordinate all business development and client relations initiatives.
• Perform market and client research and analysis for practice group and individual attorneys.
• Perform competitive research and analysis for management, practice groups, and branding purposes.
• Advise lawyers regarding recommended marketing communications and event components of their business development programs, and communicate such strategies to the Marketing Communications and Events groups for implementation.
• Initiate and conduct Business Development and Client Relations education, training, and coaching, working closely with the Professional Development Department.
• Develop and execute Client Relations Programs such as Client Service Assessments, Client Visit Incentive Program, new client feedback programs, etc.
• Prepare attorneys for Client Visits, including consulting on the agenda and talking points, research, and generally preparing the lawyer for the meeting.
• Assist Practice Group Leaders in developing and executing practice group client service improvement programs and initiatives.
• Prepare responses to RFPs in collaboration with key attorneys as a means of generating business for the firm.
• Assist attorneys in preparing for Client Pitch Presentations by attending strategy sessions, developing key messaging, creating associated presentation materials such as Power Point slides, facilitating rehearsals and giving constructive feedback, and providing related support.
• Establish a Branding strategy to support business development and ensure that the brand is consistently and well used throughout the firm. Transmit the branding strategy and goals to the Marketing Communications group.
• Provide strategic direction of the Contributions Program, working with the Managing Partner.
• Direct and supervise all aspects, initiatives, and department personnel of the Business Development and Client Relations Department.
• Perform other firm-wide duties as required, including other projects as assigned.
• Develop and manage the business development and client relations budgets.
• Exercise good judgment in all work.
• Maintain a professional and helpful attitude with clients and Firm personnel.
• Maintain confidentiality.
• Update job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities; reading professional publications; utilizing professional networks; participating in professional organizations.

• Eight years business development/client relations experience with a minimum five years experience in law firm or other professional services environment.
• Bachelor's degree required; major in Marketing/Business Development or related field.
• M.A. in Marketing/Business Development or related field preferred.
• Excellent understanding of business development/client relations methods, techniques, and best practices.
• Understand the key characteristics and principles of practice and business of law required for success in this position.
• Excellent judgment.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, and proofreading ability.
• Excellent inter-personal skills and the ability to influence professionals and management.
• Familiarity and experience with research tools and effective tools for electronic communications.
• Creative.
• Strong project management skills including the ability to plan, implement and follow through.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Committed to providing excellent client service to internal and external clients/audiences.
• Supervisory experience.
• Team player.
• Ability to use Microsoft Office Suite applications effectively.

Schmidt Marketing has been retained to conduct this search. Interested and qualified candidates should e-mail their resume, in strictest confidence, to Donna Erickson.

Schmidt Marketing, Inc.
P.O. Box 24198
Edina, Minnesota 55424