Senior Manager, Business Development – International Markets

We are BLG: Canada’s Law Firm. Our culture is one of vigilance and curiosity, Firm-wide collaboration, unfailing mutual respect and dedication. We pride ourselves on having standout talent and delivering an exceptional client experience.

We are a future-minded Firm delivering high-value advice and known for our unwavering commitment to innovation, diversity and inclusion, community involvement and talent development. Learn more about us at www.blg.com.

Purpose of the Role

The Senior Manager, Business Development - International Markets is responsible for developing and executing BLG's international growth strategy, driving revenue expansion through strategic relationship development, and positioning the Firm as a preferred partner in key global markets.

This strategic role serves as the architect of BLG's international presence, working directly with practice groups and senior leadership to identify, develop, and convert high-value opportunities in priority international markets. The position combines strategic market intelligence, relationship cultivation, and operational excellence to deliver measurable revenue growth and enhanced market positioning.

Reporting to the Chief Client Officer, this role requires a sophisticated understanding of international business dynamics, cross-border legal services, and the ability to translate market insights into actionable business development strategies that advance BLG's global footprint.

Core Responsibilities

Strategic International Market Development:

• Develop and execute comprehensive international business development strategies aligned with BLG's strategic plan and practice group objectives, with clear emphasis on revenue growth and market penetration
• Conduct strategic analysis of target markets, competitive positioning, and emerging opportunities to inform business planning and resource allocation decisions
• Lead market intelligence initiatives, analyzing trends and identifying high-value opportunities with international clients, referral sources, and strategic partners
• Design and implement thought leadership strategies that establish BLG's eminence in priority international markets and practice areas
• Support practice groups in developing international capability positioning and market differentiation strategies

Relationship & Revenue Management:

• Strategically develop and manage BLG's international referral network, ensuring systematic relationship cultivation and revenue optimization
• Lead business development initiatives with existing and prospective international clients, facilitating cross-border opportunities and account expansion
• Manage strategic partnerships and preferred network relationships, driving regular touchpoints, joint client development, and measurable revenue growth
• Provide strategic support for high-value proposals and international pitch processes, contributing market intelligence and relationship insights to enhance win rates
• Identify and execute strategic relationship development opportunities through international conferences, associations, and market visits

Operations & Performance Excellence:

• Build and maintain robust systems to track international activities, measure ROI, and provide actionable insights to leadership and practice groups
• Manage international business development budgets, ensuring optimal resource allocation and compliance with Firm policies
• Develop comprehensive reporting mechanisms that demonstrate revenue impact, relationship progression, and market positioning advancement
• Lead strategic planning sessions with practice groups and committees to ensure alignment, accountability, and results-focused execution
• Oversee CRM management for international relationships, ensuring data integrity and strategic utilization for business development purposes

Key Competencies and Success Factors

Strategic Leadership & Market Intelligence:

• Proven ability to develop and execute international business development strategies that drive revenue growth in professional services environments
• Strong analytical skills with experience translating market intelligence into actionable business strategies and measurable outcomes
• Deep understanding of cross-border legal services, international business dynamics, and global market trends
• Experience in competitive positioning and market differentiation in international contexts

Relationship Development & Stakeholder Management:

• Exceptional relationship-building capabilities with senior partners, international clients, and global professional service providers
• Outstanding communication and presentation skills for interaction with C-suite executives and senior legal professionals
• Proven track record of converting strategic relationships into revenue-generating opportunities
• Strong cultural competency and ability to navigate diverse international business environments

Professional Qualifications & Experience:

• MBA preferred; or relevant advanced degree considered an asset
• 8+ years of progressive business development experience, with at least 5 years in legal or professional services
• Demonstrated success in international market development, revenue growth, and strategic relationship management
• Experience with CRM systems, business intelligence tools, and performance measurement systems
• Established international network within legal and professional services community
• Bilingual (English/French) capability is an asset

Core Capabilities:

• Exceptional project management and organizational skills with ability to manage multiple concurrent strategic initiatives
• Strong strategic thinking abilities with proven capacity to balance strategic vision with operational execution
• Results-oriented approach with track record of achieving established goals and business development objectives
• Ability to thrive in fast-paced, high-pressure environment while maintaining attention to detail and quality standards

The expected salary range for this position is $125,000 - $145,000, depending on level of experience, region/location, and other factors.

BLG is committed to building a diverse workplace reflective of the communities we serve and to fostering an inclusive culture where Firm members feel valued, respected and inspired to thrive as their authentic selves.  We value diversity of thought and the unique skills, perspectives and experience each individual brings to BLG. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates and encourage applicants from members of groups that have been historically underrepresented, including but not limited to First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples, racialized individuals, persons with disabilities, people who identify as women and/or LGBTQ2S+. 

We also strive to provide an accessible candidate experience. Please let us know if you need any accommodations during the recruitment process.