Job Description

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Glasgow, Edinburgh, or Dundee

At Thorntons Law, every moment matters. Join us as a Business Development Manager and you'll feel inspired. You'll feel connected. You'll feel like you belong. And it all begins from the moment you join us.

That's because we've created a different kind of law firm. Here, you'll build relationships with clients and colleagues that really last. You'll help shape what happens now, and what comes next. And we'll support and encourage you to be the best you can be.

This is what life at Thorntons is all about. And this is your moment to be part of it.

About the role

As Business Development Manager, you will be at the forefront of shaping Thorntons' growth and reputation across Scotland. This is a key strategic role where you will work closely with Partners to drive forward key initiatives, strengthen our market presence, and unlock new opportunities for our "For Life" practice areas. You'll bring ideas, energy and commercial insight to help position our teams for success--making a meaningful impact on how we connect with clients and stand out in a competitive market.

It's about:

Strategic Planning & Business Development

Working with Partners and senior stakeholders to develop and implement strategic BD and marketing plans that align with firmwide objectives. Supporting client relationship management and cross-referral initiatives, identifying opportunities to deepen engagement with existing clients and attract new business. Monitoring market trends, competitor activity and client feedback to inform BD strategy and highlight areas for growth.

Campaigns & Brand Profile

Partnering with the marketing team to design and deliver multi-channel campaigns--digital, print, and events--that promote our private client services and position Thorntons as a trusted advisor. Optimising our online presence for "For Life" services, including website content, SEO, PPC and social media activity. Ensuring consistent brand messaging across all communications, PR and digital channels. Developing insightful thought leadership content and coordinating with Partners to publish timely, engaging material that reflects client needs.

Pitches, Proposals and Client Materials

Supporting Partners in preparing tailored pitches, proposals and tenders that clearly convey Thorntons' expertise and value. Maintaining and developing high-quality client collateral--credentials, case studies, and presentations--that enhance our market positioning. Developing insightful thought leadership content and coordinating with Partners to publish timely, engaging material that reflects client needs.

Events & Sponsorship

Collaborating with our Events team to plan and deliver impactful client-facing events, webinars and sponsorships that raise visibility both locally and nationally.

Legal Directories & Awards

Leading the annual Legal 500 and Chambers submissions process for "For Life" practice areas, managing timelines, evidence gathering and drafting. Working with Partners to collate compelling examples of client work, team strengths and market recognition. Managing referee outreach and follow-up to support strong rankings. Reviewing post-submission feedback and providing recommendations for continuous improvement. Identifying opportunities for awards entries and profile-raising initiatives aligned with directory rankings.

What you'll need

We're looking for:

Excellent communication, collaboration and influencing skills, with the ability to engage effectively with Partners and colleagues across the firm. Strong strategic and analytical thinking, with the ability to interpret market insights and translate them into actionable business development activity. Creative and digitally confident, with an interest in innovative approaches to campaigns, profile raising and client engagement. A solid understanding of the legal sector or professional services environment, alongside proficiency with CRM platforms and business development tools. A degree in Marketing, Business or a related field (or equivalent experience). Strong experience in business development--ideally within legal or professional services--with a proven ability to identify and pursue new opportunities.

Why Thorntons

One of Scotland's leading full-service law firms, offering a platform with genuine scale, ambition and reach. A culture built on collaboration, integrity and respect--where your expertise is valued and your voice is heard. The chance to work closely with senior leaders and Partners, influencing strategy and contributing directly to firmwide growth. A supportive environment where teamwork is central and colleagues readily share knowledge to help you succeed. Exceptional opportunities for personal and professional development, with tailored training, mentoring and access to high-quality learning resources designed to help you thrive and progress in your career. The opportunity to make a meaningful impact--shaping Thorntons' position in the market and helping drive our continued growth across Scotland.

What we offer

We offer much more than just a competitive salary, and we're committed to looking after our people in every way. Here's just some of the benefits available:

Benefits

39 Days Annual Leave (includes 5 fixed public holidays) Contributory Pension Scheme with salary exchange Private Medical Insurance Critical Illness Cover Income Protection Cover Group Life Assurance Exceptional maternity, paternity, partner and adoption leave packages Assisted Conception & IVF Leave Health care cash plan to support everyday health expenses 24-hour wellbeing support Free Legal fees for moving home and life planning Cycle to Work Scheme Gym Discounts Retail Discounts Hybrid Working

Professional development

Access to a wide range of opportunities to build your expertise and advance your career, through courses, specialist accreditations, training, or business skills development.

Belonging

At Thorntons, we embrace diversity and are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.

As a Disability Confident employer, we want to ensure that everyone has a positive experience when applying to join us. If you have a disability or are neurodivergent and need any adjustments during the recruitment process, just let us know -- we'll do everything we can to support you.

We work flexibly to meet the needs of our clients and our people. While not every role is the same, most offer a hybrid working pattern. We'll work with you to agree the right arrangement that supports you, the role, and our clients.

Make the moment matter

If you're looking for a career with a different kind of law firm, this is the moment to find out more - and apply.

Choosing the right company is about more than just the work--it's about the people, the culture, and the opportunities to grow. At Thorntons Law, we've built something different. We're one of Scotland's largest and most respected full-service legal firms, but more importantly, we're a firm that invests in you--your development, your ambitions, and your future.

All you need to do is apply by

7th December

and we'll be in touch.

Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Edinburgh EH12 5HD