Specialist, Business Development (Transactional)

Specialist, Business Development (Transactional)

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP has forged a reputation as one of the most prestigious law firms in the world. Relying on innovation, intellect, teamwork and tenacity, our lawyers deliver the highest quality advice and novel solutions to our clients' legal issues. We are known for handling the most complex transactions, litigation/controversy issues, and regulatory matters, as well as for the strong partnerships we build with clients and each other. Our attorneys, who reflect a broad range of experiences and perspectives, work together seamlessly across 50-plus practices and 21 offices in the world's major financial centers.

We are seeking a Specialist, Business Development (Transactional) to join our Chicago office on a hybrid basis. In this role, the Specialist will work closely with the Business Development Assistant Director to support business growth and strengthen the firm's market presence by deepening existing client relationships and identifying opportunities to cultivate new ones. The Specialist will help coordinate and execute business development initiatives in partnership with cross-functional teams, including Marketing, Communications, Events, and Strategic Intelligence. This role also collaborates closely with the global Business Development team to drive market engagement and deliver exceptional client service.

Responsibilities

Engage in new business generation process by:

• Project managing and executing pitches, proposals, and RFPs, including collaborating with a team to develop a winning strategy, identifying ways to differentiate from the competition, and helping to write aspects of the pitch.
• Maintaining accountability for the timely and accurate completion and submission of the RFPs or pitches, ensuring proper document storage and tracking, and establishing and executing appropriate follow-up action steps post-submission.
• Maintaining up-to-date pitch content, practice materials, client information and experience tracking.

Client Targeting and Client Growth:

• Supports the Assistant Director and Sr. Manager, M&A and Global BD Director, including the identification of targets and the appropriate routes to market.
• Assists Assistant Director and Sr. Manager M&A in identifying opportunities to cross-sell to existing clients of the firm and drive forward campaigns and initiatives to grow client relationships.

Event and Engagement Management:

• Assists with strategic planning and execution of client events and speaking engagements (in collaboration with BD Sr Manager and global events team).
• Analyzes attendee lists and prepares tailored materials to enhance engagement.
• Supports attorney follow-up and tracks outcomes and activities in the CRM system to ensure effective event management and client interaction.

Operational Efficiency and Communication:

• Follows recommended guidelines and practices to enhance efficiency, customer service, and employee relations, aligning with the Firm's Core Values.
• Develops and communicates departmental guidelines and procedures, ensuring accurate and timely responses to service requests.
• Demonstrates effective interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills to facilitate effective work relationships with others.
• Manages Firm resources responsibly.
• Regular and reliable physical presence to (ex: work as part of a team, meet with clients, use on-site equipment, etc.)
• Complies with and understands Firm operation, policies and procedures.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of relevant firm computer software programs (e.g., InterAction, Foundation, MS Office including PowerPoint, Word, and Excel)
• Maintains current knowledge of industry best practices, trends and techniques
• Demonstrates strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines and stay productive in a fast-paced environment
• Demonstrates precise attention to details, with superior proofreading and fact checking skills
• Demonstrates a professional demeanor, high emotional intelligence, cultural sensitivity and ability to interact effectively with all levels
• Demonstrates an ability to continuously improve and innovate (e.g. regularly improve existing content and design of pitch and proposal materials)
• Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, organizational, and planning skills
• Ability to develop a deep understanding of the Firm's business
• Ability to develop relationships and collaborate with stakeholders
• Ability to learn new software, systems, databases, and procedures quickly
• Ability to work well in a demanding and fast-paced environment
• Ability to use discretion and exercise independent and sound judgment
• Flexibility to travel and attend key events and meetings on occasion
• Flexibility to adjust hours and work the hours necessary to meet operating and business needs

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree
• Minimum of three years of related experience in a law firm or professional services environment

Culture & Life at Skadden

What makes Skadden special is our people and the culture, community and spirit of collaboration we have created. We believe in teamwork and inspiring each other to be our best in an atmosphere that promotes professionalism and excellence in all that we do. We know that inclusion and drawing on the strength of a wide spectrum of talent only make us better and is vital to the firm's success. Our goal is for everyone at the firm to enjoy a challenging career with opportunities for development and growth and to support the well-being of our attorneys and business services professionals.

Benefits

The overall well-being of our team is important to us. We offer generous benefits to help you achieve wellness in all areas of your life.

• Competitive salaries and year-end discretionary bonuses.
• Comprehensive health care (medical, dental, vision), savings plan/401(k) and voluntary benefits.
• Generous paid time off.
• Paid leave options, including parental.
• In-classroom, remote, and on-demand learning and professional development opportunities.
• Robust well-being classes and programs.
• Opportunities to give back and make an impact in local communities.

Salary Details

$95,000-105,000

Skadden is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It does not discriminate against applicants or employees based on any legally impermissible factor including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, alienage or citizenship status, marital or familial status, domestic partnership status, caregiver status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, change of sex or transgender status, genetic information, medical condition, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual and reproductive health decisions, disability, any protected military or veteran status, or status as a victim of domestic or dating violence, sexual assault or offense, or stalking.