CMS equIP Manager, Client Management - London

CMS equIP is a curated accelerator which supports early-stage tech start-ups access the legal services required from them to scale. This unique programme has now supported more than 150 start-ups in the UK since being established in 2016.

Members of the programme have access to sector-focused legal advice at special discounted rates, fixed fee services, introductions to relevant industry players and exclusive events and networking opportunities.

We are looking for an ambitious and dedicated Business Development Manager who can work on the day-to-day running of CMS equIP, both in the UK and with our CMS teams internationally.

About CMS

CMS is a Future Facing firm. With 75 offices in 43 countries and 4,800+ lawyers worldwide, we combine deep sector understanding with a global overview, giving us the ability not only to see what's coming, but to shape it.

CMS is well equipped to help our clients face the future with confidence. We are driven by technology and readily embrace the possibilities it opens up for developing new and better ways of delivering legal services. Our bold approach to a changing future ensures that we nurture our employees and recruit top talent.

About the Role

Key responsibilities will include (but not limited to):

• Business planning and budgeting
• Overseeing the existing membership portfolio and onboarding potential new members
• Managing internal stakeholders and responding to international queries
• Internal and external communications PR and social media
• Event planning and coordination
• Acting as an ambassador for equIP by attending external events and being proactive in the market
• Identifying external partnership opportunities to raise the profile of the programme and provide a pipeline of potential new members
• Providing invaluable support to the Finance team to ensure a smooth billing process for members
• Manage workloads through the effective utilisation of members of the CMS BD Graduate programme on projects

About You

The successful candidate will have a particular interest in working with start-ups and early-stage technology led businesses. They will have an excellent working knowledge of technology sector and a wide range of marketing and BD processes, as well as a high level of attention to detail. They will be methodical and organised in their approach, an energetic and resilient individual, who has a proactive ‘can do’ attitude, with a willingness to learn and develop. They will have demonstrated an ability to build strong working relationships with partners and staff at all levels, as well as with external vendors.

• Technical Competence
  • Insight and experience in the venture capital or early-stage investment market would be advantageous, with a focus in IP rich industries, e.g. technology, digital, life sciences.
  • Have experience in many aspects of Business Development and Marketing in a professional services business, including client relationship management, client targeting, pitching, event management and campaigns.
  • Possesses excellent oral and written communications skills.
  • Demonstrates an understanding of the IT packages/ systems necessary to perform the role.
  • Has a demonstrated ability to build strong working relationships with partners and staff at all levels within the firm and with external vendors.
  • Experience in a client facing capacity.

• Analytical skills
  • Grasps, retains and analyses complex information and concepts; pays good attention to detail.
  • Has the ability to present complex information and concepts in a clear and concise manner.
  • Possesses strong numerical skills.

• Communication style and approach
  • Demonstrates excellent listening skills and checks for understanding wherever necessary.
  • Responds to professional environment, presenting consistently professional verbal and non-verbal behaviour with clients and colleagues.

• Other
  • Demonstrates ability to plan and organise time; works to given timeframes and balances work well to meet goals and objectives.
  • Identifies issues, risks and conflicts and asks for assistance and/or delegates appropriately when required in a timely and constructive manner.
  • Adheres to, and seeks to improve established processes and procedures, where appropriate.

Equal Opportunities

At CMS, a next-generation mindset is woven into all we do. We're diverse, supportive and inclusive, embracing our corporate social responsibility and creating a culture of sustainability in which every one of our people, whatever their background, can maximise their potential and thrive. For further information about CMS' diversity initiatives and programmes, please view the Diversity & Inclusion pages on our website.

Please apply online or contact a member of the Talent Acquisition team if you have any questions. For information regarding our competitive range of benefits please visit our Rewards & Benefits page on our website.

Please note that CMS have a preferred agency panel in place. Only applications submitted via the portal at the point of instruction will be accepted.

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