Senior Business Development Manager (6-9 Month Contract)Location: London or Washington, DCSchedule: Full-time or 4 days per weekA leading international disputes firm is seeking an experienced Senior Business Development Manager to provide high-impact BD leadership during a 6-9 month period of strategic transformation.The role offers the chance to shape firmwide BD priorities, elevate external profile, and drive a more modern, AI-enabled BD function-working closely with the BD Director and a global partnership.Key ResponsibilitiesAct as a senior deputy to the BD Director, turning strategy into actionable plans and measurable outcomes.Lead major BD initiatives, including campaigns, client programmes, and priority projects.Manage and develop a team of BD professionals, fostering a high-performing, collaborative culture.Drive key client management, targeting, and partner BD planning.Oversee high-value marketing activity: events, directories, pitches, credential development, and profile-raising.Support improvements to BD systems, processes, and analytics.ProfileConfident senior BD professional who can "hit the ground running" in a fast-paced legal environment.Strong track record in professional services BD, ideally with disputes or international arbitration exposure.Excellent communicator with proven stakeholder management skills.Experienced people manager with a hands-on, solutions-focused approach.Fluent in English; additional languages welcome.Ability to travel internationally