BD Client Development Manager / Senior Manager

About the Role

Clifford Chance is seeking a BD Client Development Manager / Senior Manager to support its strategic growth in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This full-time role is central to developing a structured and proactive Client & Market Development function, moving from reactive activity towards strategic market positioning and client engagement. The successful candidate will contribute to how the firm presents itself, supports partners in winning work, and differentiates itself in the legal market.

Role Context and Objectives

Reporting to the Head of Business Development, this position focuses on driving client development initiatives, supporting key client programmes, and identifying growth opportunities across priority sectors and clients. The role involves close collaboration with partners and lawyers to develop client relationship strategies, coordinate business development campaigns, and manage pitch preparations. It also supports profile-raising activities, including events and thought leadership, to communicate the firm's market position.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the development and implementation of client development plans for priority clients and growth targets.
• Identify client opportunities, cross-selling initiatives, and relationship-building activities.
• Maintain client intelligence, including profiles, relationship maps, and opportunity pipelines.
• Coordinate client feedback and listening initiatives to strengthen relationships.
• Support strategic client accounts and programmes to drive revenue growth and client retention.
• Monitor market developments, client activity, and competitor initiatives.
• Lead the preparation of pitches, proposals, Expressions of Interest (EOIs), Requests for Proposals (RFPs), and panel submissions.
• Develop client-focused value propositions and win strategies.
• Draft and tailor credentials, capability statements, and matter summaries.
• Manage submissions to legal directories, including Chambers & Partners, Legal 500, and IFLR1000.
• Conduct research on clients, markets, sectors, and competitors to support business development.
• Act as a coach and mentor to junior members of the Client & Market Development team.

Qualifications and Experience

• 5-10 years of relevant experience in business development or client development, preferably within a professional services environment.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement client relationship strategies.
• Experience in preparing high-quality pitches and proposals.
• Familiarity with legal directory submissions and market intelligence.
• Strong interpersonal skills for collaborating with partners, lawyers, and business professional teams.

Work Environment and Culture

This role is based in Riyadh and operates under a balanced hybrid working approach, allowing for flexibility in line with firm policy and business needs. Clifford Chance fosters an inclusive culture that values diverse perspectives and provides equal access to opportunities for all employees. The firm is committed to professional development through formal training, informal coaching, and mentoring.