Business Development Analyst

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Wilson Sonsini is the premier legal advisor to technology, life sciences, and other growth enterprises worldwide. We represent companies at every stage of development, from entrepreneurial start-ups to multibillion-dollar global corporations, as well as the venture firms, private equity firms, and investment banks that finance and advise them. The firm has approximately 1,100 attorneys in 17 offices: 13 in the U.S., two in China, and two in Europe. Our broad spectrum of practices and entrepreneurial spirit allow our staff exceptional opportunities for professional achievement and career growth.

The firm is looking for a Business Development Analyst to support the execution of marketing and business development initiatives for the firm’s life sciences practice and serves as a key member of the life sciences business development team.

Wilson Sonsini’s life sciences practice is one of the largest in the U.S., with more than 275 professionals, including attorneys, patent agents, and scientific advisors.

This individual plays a critical role in elevating the profile of the practice group, both internally and externally, and supporting initiatives that contribute to client and pipeline development. The role works closely with the broader marketing team, leveraging resources to execute, track, and measure the impact of campaigns and initiatives. Success in this role requires strong analytical and execution skills, attention to detail, and the flexibility to adapt to evolving priorities and firm needs.

This position will report to the Marketing & Business Development Manager for Life Sciences based in Palo Alto, CA.

This position is available as a hybrid work schedule.

Responsibilities Include: 

  • Support marketing and business development initiatives across the West Coast life science practice group.
  • Deliver data-driven reports and projects using the appropriate firm technologies and services, including external and internal research databases (CRM (Salesforce), IntroHive, Intranet, Library Services, Pitchbook, Capital IQ, IPO Vital Signs, etc.).
  • Contribute to the execution of winning pitches in conjunction with firm’s Pitch & Proposal team.
  • Help identify and curate key attorney experience for league tables, deal sheets, pitches, award submissions, and other opportunities.
  • Assist with the management, development and production of Marketing and Business Development communications including internal newsletters, client communications, case studies, and marketing collateral in support of business development initiatives.  
  • Participate in the successful production and execution of strategic event and sponsorships, and speaking engagements, including analyzing attendee lists, preparing tailored materials, supporting follow-up, and tracking outcomes in the CRM system.
  • Partner with Business Development Managers to evaluate, create and implement best practices around event preparation, follow-up, ROI analysis, and budget recommendations.
  • Work closely with attorneys to ensure they are prepared for events, including developing briefing materials on attendees, and post-meeting follow-up with new prospects.
  • Assist with preparation of compelling marketing and business development collateral, including basic and highly tailored pitch materials. 
  • Manage, maintain and promote the Life Sciences internal Sharepoint page.
  • Provide ad-hoc support to the Director of Life Sciences, lending support to business goal-related projects, and enabling insight into professional development opportunities.
  • Conduct in-depth research on markets, industries, companies, and individuals for corporate attorneys.
  • Conduct in-depth research, analysis and reporting on current and emerging markets, and clients to support the identification and development of prospective client relationships, prospective client pipeline and the expansion of existing relationships.  
  • Support the Business Development team’s opportunity and pitch tracking and reporting activities in our CRM system; to include attendance and contributions in bi-weekly Marketing technology meetings. 
  • Liaise with internal departments and collaborate on cross-departmental projects as needed.
  • Support firmwide marketing and business development initiatives when necessary.

 Desired Skills and Qualifications: 

  • Bachelor’s degree required.
  • Preferably 2-3 years of experience in a related field. Preferably in a law firm, professional services or other client relationship-based organization.  
  • Experienced and motivated to support Marketing and Business Development initiatives.
  • Quick learner with a strong work ethic and drive to get things done.
  • Commitment to client and customer service excellence and teamwork.  
  • High personal and professional standards of ethical conduct. 
  • Efficient, highly organized and able to stay productive under pressure with tight deadlines
  • Exemplary communication skills, both verbal and written. 
  • Detail-oriented, with strong proofreading and fact checking skills . 
  • Proficient in the use of PowerPoint, Word, Excel, and Adobe Acrobat. 
  • Aptitude for learning new software, systems and procedures quickly. Experience with Salesforce.com a plus. 
  • Ability to anticipate and prioritize the needs of multiple stakeholders.
  • Able to work independently and in team environments with a diverse group of professionals.  
  • Self-motivated, positive attitude, with a sense of humor and levity a huge plus! 
  • Ability to attend and support local events and team meetings and a bi-monthly to quarterly basis. 
  • Deep curiosity and passion for learning about technology and life sciences.

The primary location for this job posting is in Palo Alto, but other locations may be listed. The actual base pay offered will depend upon a variety of factors, including but not limited to the selected candidate’s qualifications, years of relevant experience, level of education, professional certifications and licenses, and work location. The anticipated pay range for this position is as follows:

Palo Alto, San Francisco: $81,600 – $110,400 per year.

The compensation for this position may include a discretionary year-end merit bonus based on performance. We offer a highly competitive salary and benefits package.

Benefits information can be found here. Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).

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