Global Business Development Manager - Emerging Technology Group

  • Simmons & Simmons
  • Apr 18, 2026
Full time I.T. & Communications Management

Job Description

We are looking for a Global Business Development Manager - Emerging Technology Group to join our Marketing and Business Development department in London. This role will be a 6-month maternity cover fixed term contract.The Emerging Technology Group is sector and practice group agnostic, comprising lawyers who are subject matter experts, or aspiring experts, in areas such as AI, tokenisation, Quantum computing, digital assets, and payments, viewed through both a contentious and non-contentious perspectives. The Global Business Development Manager will work closely with fee earners across the Emerging Technology Group, and the AI cross-border group, and members of the Marketing and Business Development (M&BD) team. The Global Business Development Manager will also advise on and drive the execution of M&BD initiatives, taking responsibility for delivering the Emerging Technology Group business plan. A key aspect of the role is fostering collaboration between the Emerging Technology Group and the wider firm, including sectors, practice groups, and Client Programme. The successful candidate will operate as an integral part of the M&BD team, contributing to the future planning and strategic direction of the Emerging Technology Group. The role requires a blend of strategic insight and hands-on delivery, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and drive impactful business development activity in a fast-moving environment. Knowledge: Become a key source of knowledge within the M&BD team regarding the work of the global Emerging Technology Group. The role-holder will develop a deep understanding of the legal advice and services offered by the group, dedicating significant time to learning about the firm's capabilities and staying abreast of legal and regulatory developments in the Emerging Technology ecosystem. PR: Work with PR, digital and event leads to effectively action opportunities to raise the firm's profile in areas covered by the Emerging Technology Group. Website and Intranet Management: Ensure all website and intranet content for the Emerging Technology Group is kept up-to-date, briefing tasks into the M&BD Hub as appropriate. CRM Management: Utilise CRM systems (InterAction and Introhive) to brief tasks into the Hub and complete tasks efficiently, ensuring accurate client and activity tracking. Event Management: organise and project manage events from end to end, including webinars, ensuring effective briefing tasks into the M&BD Hub. Support development of junior BD members: Support BD Executives and Trainees in key BD tasks, including pitches, events and thought leadership, fostering their professional growth and development. Strong proficiency in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Excel skills. Minimum of 3 years' experience in industry, marketing or BD experience, with at least 12 months in a law firm or professional services environment is highly desirable. A professional marketing qualification is advantageous. Experience working within a global team, demonstrating an ability to collaborate across borders and cultures. Demonstrates a genuine interest in emerging technologies and an understanding of the legal and commercial needs of clients in this space. Consistently thinks from a client's perspective, considering the value they can bring in everything they do. Commercial acumen, with the ability to identify opportunities and deliver value to the business. Builds trust among fee earners and the wider stakeholder community; able to provide effective challenge and manage expectations. Capable of working autonomously, managing and implementing M&BD tasks with minimal supervision. Strong organisational skills and excellent attention to detail. Strives to exceed expectations in delivering high-quality service in every task. Self-motivated, with a desire to manage projects to completion and the confidence to proactively put ideas to partners rather than simply follow instructions. Possesses a high degree of professionalism in all interactions. Adopts a flexible and versatile approach to work, enjoying collaboration with a team with diverse needs, styles, and requirements.Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal with the ability to convey complex ideas clearly and persuasively. We offer a competitive package including bonuses dependant on role/level, private medical insurance and pension contribution. Our global skills academy provides our people, regardless of their role and location, with excellent learning opportunities (including live workshops, podcasts, short videos and practical learning experiences). We have adopted a hybrid working approach with a requirement for a minimum of three days in the office with flexibility dependant on role/team/client demands. We are proud to rank as a Times Top 50 Employer for Gender Equality, a Stonewall Top Global Employer, and a Top 75 Employer for Social Mobility. We have a range of social and sports committees, summer and winter parties and monthly get togethers. We have a range of diversity networks to connect people and celebrate our differences which is integral to our inclusive culture. All UK offices have their own artwork collections - including Damien Hirst and Tracey Emin pieces in the London office. We have a long-standing history in supporting the art community especially up-and-coming artists. We have recently introduced a Strategic Advisory Council which is a mix of associates and business services who will propose strategic initiatives that align with our firm's mission and support the delivery of our business plan, shaping the future of our next-generation law firm. Our in-house generative AI tool, Percy, won the 'Innovation in Automation and AI Tools' category at the 2024 FT Innovative Lawyers Europe Awards. This achievement highlights our commitment to technological innovation and client service. We have been commended in The Times Best Law Firms 2026 across three categories: construction, employment, and intellectual property. Our profile is highly positive, highlighting our sector specialisms and notable case and transactional work. Upholding equal opportunities, regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, belief, age, disability, sexual orientation, sex, gender reassignment, gender identity, marital status, or pregnancy, including maternity and paternity. This commitment extends to addressing any instances of perceived or associative discrimination and harassment. We also ensure fair treatment during recruitment and selection processes for those who are serving or have served in the armed forces, along with their families. Accommodating requests for flexible working arrangements whenever possible. We encourage you to discuss your needs with us if this is something you require. Making our roles accessible to individuals with diverse abilities. If you need any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know so we can meet your needs. We offer a range of employee networks to support our colleagues. More information about these networks can be found in the D&I Information booklet that candidates are sent when invited to interview.Every day, our expert teams across Europe, the Middle East and Asia come together to solve some of the world's most complex challenges. We're an international melting pot of perspectives and experiences, united in helping to shape a better future for our clients, our people and our communities. A place for ideas, skills, ambition and innovation. For personal growth and professional challenge. For powering success through trust, respect, integrity and an unwavering commitment to quality.