Business Development Specialist

Business Development Specialist: Litigation & International Arbitration London | US Law Firm | Full-Time | Hybrid Help grow a world-class disputes practice in the City. A US law firm with a boutique London office are expanding their litigation and international arbitration practice. They are looking for a Business Development Specialist to directly support Partners across the UK & US. This is a rare opportunity to join a small, ambitious team where your work is visible, your ideas are heard, and your impact is felt from day one. No layers of bureaucracy, just direct access to the Partners shaping the firm's strategy. Some of the key responsibilities:

• Develop and execute a BD strategy for the London disputes practice, targeting corporates, funds, sovereigns and in-house counsel across Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and the US
• Identify and pursue new instructions in international arbitration (ICC, LCIA, ICSID, UNCITRAL) and cross-border commercial litigation.
• Build and nurture relationships with referral sources, including co-counsel, funders, insurers, expert witnesses and other law firms.
• Prepare tailored pitches, credentials, tender responses, and RFP submissions.
• Plan and manage events, speaking opportunities, webinars, and thought-leadership content.
• Work with the marketing function on LinkedIn, publications, directory submissions (Chambers, Legal 500, GAR) and awards.
• Track market developments and client intelligence to spot opportunities early.
• Report on pipeline, conversion and ROI to the partners. The firm are keen to meet candidates:
• Proven BD, marketing or client development experience in a law firm, ideally within disputes, litigation, or international arbitration.
• A strong grasp of how the arbitration and cross-border disputes market works, including who instructs, who refers and how mandates are won.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, with the polish to engage senior partners and GCs.
• A self-starters' mindset: comfortable running with a brief, setting priorities and delivering in a lean team.
• Strong organisational skills and a good eye for detail. There is a strong remuneration package on offer alongside a clear progression route.