Marketing & Business Development

BD Specialist

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Role Purpose

We are looking for a motivated and organised Business Development Specialist to join our team in Milan.

Supporting the development of pitches and proposals will be a core component of the role, complemented by involvement in client events that contribute to the firm’s wider business development efforts.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone at the early stages of their career who is looking to gain experience across pitches and client-facing events - key components of the firm’s business development strategy - in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Main duties and responsibilities

Pitch & Proposal Support

  • Support the preparation of high-quality pitches, proposals, credentials and capability statements.
  • Coordinate input from fee earners to ensure timely delivery of client-facing materials.
  • Ensure all documents align with brand, tone, and strategic messaging.
  • Track pitch outcomes and contribute to internal reporting and analysis. Engage with clients and ensure they are fully supported in the use of X product through the provision of guidance notes and online support;
  • Review X regularly and refine as appropriate, ensuring that it remains fit-for-purpose.

Client Events

  • Support the planning and delivery of strategic client events, both in-person and virtual, as part of the BD strategy.
  • Assist with event logistics (guest lists, invites, venues, follow-ups), ensuring alignment with business priorities and a seamless client experience.
  • Help ensure that events are aligned with broader client development objectives.

About you

  • 1–2 years’ experience in business development and marketing, ideally in a professional services environment;
  • Excellent writing, editing and communication skills in English;
  • Highly organised and detail-oriented, with a proactive attitude and the ability to manage deadlines, work well with others, and support a variety of BD and marketing tasks;
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office; familiarity with CRM systems or email marketing platforms is a plus.

The Department

The Business Development and Marketing team plays a critical role in supporting the firm’s strategic growth by enabling stronger client relationships, enhancing market visibility, and driving new business opportunities. Operating as part of a dynamic international network, the team works closely with partners, lawyers, and business services colleagues to deliver high-quality pitches, organise client events, develop targeted campaigns, and provide strategic input across practice areas.

Locally, the team is composed of professionals with complementary skillsets spanning business development, events, and communications. This collaborative approach allows the team to remain agile and responsive to the needs of the business, supporting both firm-wide initiatives and local priorities.

This environment offers an excellent opportunity to develop a broad skillset, gain visibility across the firm, and contribute to high-impact business development activity

About us

We're a global law firm helping our clients achieve their goals wherever they do business. Our pursuit of innovation has transformed our delivery of legal services. With offices in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific, we deliver exceptional outcomes on cross-border projects, critical transactions and high-stakes disputes.

At DLA Piper, we understand that inclusion is not a one-size-fits-all concept. We embrace and celebrate the range of perspectives, backgrounds and experiences that each individual brings to our firm. By fostering a culture that welcomes and appreciates all aspects of our individuality, we ensure that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Our commitment to inclusion and positive social impact enables us to provide exceptional service to our clients and communities, while nurturing a unique and inclusive culture for all our people. We welcome the unique contribution that you will bring to our firm and actively encourage applications from all talented people – however your talent is packaged, whatever your background or circumstance and regardless of how you identify.

We are committed to being accessible and accommodating any reasonable adjustments needed throughout the recruitment process to ensure an inclusive experience for all. If you need any support or adjustments, please let us know.

Where local legislation permits, we will conduct relevant pre-engagement screening checks prior to your first day.

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Requesting Adjustments

At DLA Piper, we aim to make meaningful progress and build an inclusive culture where anyone affected by disability, neurodiversity or a long-term health condition has an equitable and accessible chance of success. If you think you may need adjustments or additional support to enable you to participate in our recruitment process, please contact our Recruitment team and we will be happy to support you.

Agile Working

We recognise that people have responsibilities and interests outside of their career and that as a business, we all benefit from working flexibly. That’s why we are open to discussing with candidates the different ways in which we are able to support requests for agile working arrangements.

Pre-Engagement Screening

In the event that we make an offer to you, and where local legislation permits, we will conduct pre-engagement screening checks that may include but are not limited to your professional and academic qualifications, your eligibility to work in the relevant jurisdiction, any criminal records, your financial stability, and references from previous employers. 

Our hiring approach

Our hiring approach enables us to learn about the professional and person you are, and gives you the opportunity to learn about us. Your recruitment experience can differ depending on the type of role you are interviewing for. You will always meet your direct Line Manager for your role, as well as peers and close collaborators for the position. For some of our roles we may also use assessment tools, practical exercises, and panel presentations. Your Recruitment Business Partner will inform you of the recruitment process at the start of any recruitment process, but please let us know if you have any questions prior to making an application.

Our hiring approach
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