Manager, Business Development (M&A)

About Us 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. The Opportunity We are seeking a Manager, Business Development (Transactional) to join our Firm. This position will be based in our Washington D.C. office (hybrid). The Business Development Manager (BDM) collaborates with the Associate Director, Business Development (AD), to support strategic plans and objectives for our M&A and Corporate practices. This BDM drives cross-practice collaboration and serves as a resource assisting with related communications, administration, research and reporting, marketing communications, coordination of projects, and leads implementation efforts of partner pipelines to ensure successful growth and consistency regarding the Firm’s key business initiatives. Business Development Implements proactive, organized marketing and business development initiatives for select transactional practices, including client targeting programs and pursuit teams for target markets. Drafts and prepares high quality pitches, capability statements, placemats and BD presentations, working closely with relevant partners, AD, and supported by a BDM Coordinator where relevant. Takes ownership for pitch/presentation content, drafting tailored copy to convey Skadden's credentials, its differentiators, and its value proposition to potential clients. Understands the sales cycle and advises attorneys on lead development, pitching, and follow-up. Manages sales pipeline processes for assigned practices and partners across regions. Oversees collection of practice experience for the Firm’s database to ensure accurate profiling. Identifies and supports cross-practice and cross-region opportunities, collaborating with attorneys and marketing to align strategies, measure target progress, and leverage those opportunities to drive overall business development plans. Strategic Planning and Analysis Works with AD to implement strategic plans for practice segments, execute tactics, report progress, and align resources. Collaborates with Strategic Intelligence to prepare briefings and research for attorneys in preparation for events and meetings. Profile-Raising Activities, Content and Thought Leadership Drives tactics and programs that raise the practice’s internal and external visibility and positioning in key markets through speaking events, sponsorships, PR (with global PR team), and social media. Manages legal directory, award, and ranking opportunities, leading the drafting of practice submissions. Evaluates profile-raising opportunities, ensuring maximum benefit from sponsorships and speaking engagements. Monitors industry trends and collaborates with attorneys and the editorial team on related client mailings and articles. Event and Engagement Management Leads strategic planning and execution of client events and speaking engagements in collaboration with Global Events team. Analyzes attendee lists and prepares tailored materials to enhance engagement. Supports attorney follow-up and tracks outcomes and activities in the Firm’s CRM to ensure effective event management and client interaction. Resource Management and Compliance Manages Firm resources responsibly. Provides direction and oversight to direct report(s), monitoring performance and providing regular feedback. Participates in the interviewing, selection and training process. Qualifications Strong knowledge of relevant Firm computer software programs (e.g., CRM/InterAction, MS Office including PowerPoint, Word, and Excel) with the ability to learn new software and operating systems. Maintains current knowledge of industry best practices, trends and techniques. Demonstrates exemplary interpersonal and communication skills, both verbally and in writing. Demonstrates strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities/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). Ability to develop a deep understanding of the Firm’s business. Ability to develop relationships and collaborate with stakeholders. Ability to lead and supervise others. Ability to learn new software, systems, databases, and procedures quickly. Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in hybrid team environments. Ability to handle sensitive matters and maintain confidentiality. Ability to organize and prioritize work and delegate effectively. 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 seven years of business development and marketing experience in a law firm. 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 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. For further details, please visit: The starting base salary for this position is expected to be within the range listed under Salary Details. Actual salary will be determined based on skills, experience (to the extent relevant) and other‑job related factors, consistent with applicable law. Salary Details $200,000 - $220,000 EEO Statement 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. Applicants who require an accommodation during the application process should contact Alex Taylor at View phone number on click.appcast.io. Applicants Have Rights Under Federal Employment Law. In accordance with the Transparency in Coverage Rule, click here to review machine‑readable files made available by UnitedHealthcare: Transparency in Coverage #J-18808-Ljbffr Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP and Affiliates