Chicago - Business Development Specialist, Industries & Markets

About Us For Business Professionals, Winston & Strawn presents an exciting opportunity to be a part of a leading global law firm. With our commitment to excellence, diversity, a collaborative work environment, and an emphasis on professional growth, Winston offers a platform for individuals seeking to advance their careers in a dynamic and rewarding environment. Winston is known for its collaborative and collegial culture. We believe teamwork is an essential component in providing high‑quality legal services and we value the talents and skills of our entire business professional team. Position Summary The Business Development Specialist, Industries & Markets, is a hands‑on, client‑facing role that integrates marketing, business development, and industry strategy and execution for the firm’s Energy & Infrastructure and Technology, Media & Telecommunications Industry Groups, and Project Finance Practice. The Specialist supports high‑impact initiatives that elevate market visibility, deepen client relationships, and drive revenue opportunities across the energy, infrastructure, and technology sectors. The role supports the Business Development Manager, Industries & Markets, in executing targeted business development initiatives, client growth strategies, and market positioning for practices advising power, oil and gas, infrastructure, and technology companies. The Specialist will collaborate with Industry and Practice Group leaders, other attorney stakeholders, and cross‑functional teams, and serve as a key liaison to the firm’s centralized Marketing Communications, IT, Finance, and Operations teams. Duties and Responsibilities Industry & Practice Strategy: Support the BD Manager in implementing industry‑specific growth strategies, including annual business planning and multi‑year initiatives, into measurable approaches. Prepare market, client, and competitive analyses to identify opportunities for expansion, client penetration, and differentiation within priority industries and geographies. Track progress against growth initiatives. Client Development & Relationship Management: Help implement and monitor key account plans for industry and market‑aligned clients. Gather relevant experience and sector‑specific insights tailored to client/prospect needs. Pitches, Proposals & Business Opportunities: Develop pitches, proposals, and RFPs tied to industry and market initiatives, ensuring strategic positioning and high‑quality execution. Develop and maintain content for broad external‑facing mediums such as credentialing presentations, brochures, and the firm’s website. Articulate compelling value propositions and sector‑specific insights tailored to client needs. Coordinate with pricing, finance, knowledge management, communications, and marketing teams to support opportunity development. Thought Leadership & Market Positioning: Prepare client briefings and industry/practice‑elevating programming in line with strategic objectives. Collaborate with the firm’s Strategic Client Events team to produce targeted and bespoke events and profile‑raising initiatives across in‑person programming, virtual programming, and conferences and sponsorships. Assist in the development of industry‑focused marketing content and campaigns that enhance the firm’s visibility and credibility. Support production of award and directory submissions. Data, Reporting & Infrastructure: Prepare and monitor performance metrics, pipeline activity, and return on investment to assess effectiveness and inform strategic adjustments. Ensure capture and ongoing maintenance of relevant attorney experience. Support data integrity and adoption of CRM and related systems for reliable reporting and insight. Firmwide Collaboration: Partner with industry and practice group leaders and administrative leaders to align growth initiatives with client priorities. Basic Qualifications Bachelor’s degree required; MBA or other advanced degree preferred. Minimum of 4 years of client development, sales, and/or marketing experience in a law, financial, or other professional services firm. Must live within a commutable distance to the firm office with ability to come into the office 3‑4 days per week. Competencies Experience supporting industry‑focused or market‑based growth initiatives under senior leadership guidance. Solid understanding of client buying behavior, industry dynamics, and competitive positioning within the legal or professional services market. Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to contribute to clear, client‑focused messaging for a range of audiences. Ability to manage multiple workstreams, stay organized across competing priorities, and consistently meet deadlines in a fast‑paced environment. Professionalism, good judgment, and discretion in handling sensitive information. Analytical and problem‑solving skills, with a developing commercial awareness. Relationship‑building skills and ability to work effectively with stakeholders at various levels. Proficiency with CRM platforms, business intelligence tools, and Microsoft Office applications. Comfort working with data to inform recommendations and support decision‑making. Confidence engaging with senior stakeholders, including partners, in a professional and composed manner. Collaborative mindset and willingness to work across teams and offices. Benefits Winston offers comprehensive benefits that provide a full spectrum of coverage and support for our full‑time employees and their families. Salary Illinois based applicants only: The target annual salary range is $102,000 – $115,000. Los Angeles based applicants only: The target annual salary range is $107,000 – $121,000. New York based applicants only: The target annual salary range is $112,000 – $126,000. Washington, DC based applicants only: The target annual salary range is $107,000 – $121,000. The compensation package includes a comprehensive healthcare benefits package, yearly retirement contribution, and may include an annual discretionary merit bonus. Equal Opportunity Employer We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. #J-18808-Ljbffr Winston & Strawn LLP