The Director of Business Development and Marketing at Bodman PLC leads the firm’s business development and marketing activities with a focus on executing the Firm’s strategic plan. Based in Detroit, MI (onsite), this role builds initiatives that support attorneys, strengthen market positioning, and drive revenue and growth.
You will work closely with Marketing Partners, the Marketing Committee, and the Chief Strategy Officer, directing department activities across planning, communications, digital programs, PR, media relations, proposal/RFP support, and CRM oversight.
Key Responsibilities
- Promote a business development mindset firm-wide, including developing a training calendar and participating in or leading education and best-practices sessions for attorneys at all levels.
- Stay current on market and business trends, the competitive landscape, and the attorneys’ experiences and client relationships.
- Prepare and track the annual Marketing Budget, recommending major programs, upgrades, and marketing technology acquisitions while ensuring alignment with firm initiatives and related budgets.
- Monitor BD and Marketing staffing structure and recommend changes to improve service output; manage department personnel activities, track significant project status, and mentor BD and Marketing team members.
- Prepare or coordinate BD and Marketing management reports.
- Manage relationships with consultants and vendors supporting Firm BD efforts.
- Represent the Firm professionally in interactions tied to Firm-sponsored activities and other business functions.
- Drive cross-selling initiatives to enhance client experience and grow relationships, leveraging referral sources and networks to identify new business leads.
- Write, evaluate, and/or edit proposals and RFP responses, advise attorneys on best practices, support pitch team preparation, and track results to recommend pricing strategies and approvals.
- Create BD plan templates and help attorneys develop and implement their plans.
- Conduct intelligence research on industries, companies, and competitors.
- Participate in formal and informal attorney coaching and strategy sessions.
- Monitor brand equity and competitive positioning, advising on activities that increase awareness among key audiences.
- Ensure public relations activities align with Firm goals and help position the Firm, its practices, and its attorneys as leaders in key industries.
- Direct client communication programs, digital marketing strategies (including social media), and interactive campaigns.
- Establish processes to keep marketing collateral and website content current and easily accessible.
- Participate in new attorney onboarding by maintaining the onboarding checklist.
- Manage award and ranking submissions by gathering data, assembling and editing materials, and seeking approvals as needed.
- Draft, edit, and disseminate internal communications and newsletters.
- Oversee media relations, serving as the primary media contact, vetting and responding to inquiries in coordination with Firm management and/or client relationship managers, and coordinating external PR counsel when needed. Draft and manage media releases and external publications.
- Serve as a primary contact for incoming client and potential client inquiries.
- Develop content for and oversee maintenance of Bodman’s websites.
- Oversee the operation and development of the Firm’s CRM system.
- Oversee creation and editing of graphics and photographs for internal and external marketing projects.
Required Qualifications
- Education: a four-year degree in marketing, business, communications, or a related field, or a four-year degree in an unrelated field in conjunction with relevant work experience.
- Experience: 10+ years in BD, marketing, or communications/journalism, including three years in a managerial role and prior experience in a professional services setting.
- Superior oral and written communication skills, including the ability to edit written work for content, style, and consistency.
- Ability to work independently.
- Strong interpersonal skills and professional demeanor.
- Strong computer skills (including Microsoft 365 Suite) and the ability to learn and recommend new technologies.
- Ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects and complete them on time.
- Ability to work when necessary and travel occasionally to perform essential duties.
- Ability to adhere to all general office rules and procedures.
Tools and Technologies
- Microsoft 365 Suite
- CRM system
- Social media
The role also supports the Firm objective that each Bodman attorney prioritizes business development and works to nurture client relationships, including both existing and prospective clients. The Director will exercise independent judgment and maintain good working relationships across Firm personnel, while preserving the confidentiality of client and Firm information.
