Marketing & Business Development Manager

This role is responsible for leading and delivering the marketing and business development strategy for the Japan office, supporting the office’s growth objectives and strengthening its integration within the wider Asia, US and international platform.

Reporting to the Head of Marketing and Business Development, Asia, the role works closely with partners and senior stakeholders to actively promote and facilitate Japan-related business development initiatives. This includes identifying and driving cross-selling and collaboration opportunities across Asia offices and the wider firm, working with relevant practice groups and sectors.

A core focus of the role is to support and advance the firm’s client development efforts in Asia, with particular emphasis on both inbound and outbound client activity involving Japan. The role plays a key part in executing firmwide and regional initiatives, supporting priority client relationships, and helping partners develop targeted, strategic approaches to winning and growing work.

The successful candidate will act as a trusted MBD adviser to the Japan office, working closely with the Asia BD team, providing insight, coordination and hands-on support to enable partners to build deeper client relationships and deliver sustainable growth.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Pitching & Proposals – Lead Japan office practice group pitches and capability statements, including Japan-related cross-office pitches, in line with firm guidelines (English and Japanese where applicable). Maintain a suite of up-to-date, accessible Japan capability and pitch materials, working closely with Asia MBD teams, and oversee the use of Qorus, our pitching tool.
• Databases & Credentials – Coordinate local deal capture and ensure accurate matter and credential information is maintained in firm systems. Oversee CV management for Japan fee earners and maintain practice group client distribution lists in InterAction.
• Marketing & Business Development Support – Develop and maintain marketing collateral and business development plans for the Japan office and relevant sectors across Asia. Support delivery of BD, branding and communications initiatives, including digital content, PR and internal communications.
• Opportunity Identification – Research and identify inbound and outbound Japan-related client and business development opportunities across Asia.
• Internal Collaboration – Work closely with practice group and sector leaders globally to align Japan and Asia initiatives with regional and firmwide strategies.
• Directories & Awards – Manage selected directory and award submissions for the Japan office and relevant sectors (including Chambers, Legal 500 and IFLR), ensuring alignment with regional submissions.
• Events – Propose, promote and deliver Japan-related practice group events, including sponsorships and speaker engagements, in collaboration with relevant teams.
• Strategic Initiatives – Support the implementation of firmwide and Asia-wide strategic initiatives, including the client programme. Advise Japan practice partners on client relationship management and business development priorities.
• Other Duties – Undertake additional responsibilities as required by the Senior Manager or the Head of Marketing and Business Development, Asia.

About You

The successful candidate is expected to:

• Have a degree and at least five years' PR experience either in-house or at a consultancy. Experience working within a corporate environment or for a professional services organisation is desirable.
• Have a track record in delivering effective communications campaigns.
• Have crisis and reputation management experience.
• Be able to establish credibility with senior stakeholders.
• Display a consistently positive attitude and adopt a 'can do' approach.
• Have experience managing a team.
• Be a dynamic and diplomatic communicator, with great networking and advocacy skills.
• Display a proven ability to deal with confidential and sensitive information.
• Be motivated, resourceful and confident.
• Be comfortable multi-tasking and working to sometimes conflicting timescales and multiple priorities in a robust and fast-paced environment.
• Be a self-starter, who is able to work on their own initiative as well as being part of a team.
• Have the ability to see delegated tasks through to completion at a high standard.
• Have the ability to stay calm and composed in often demanding situations.
• Be able to build and maintain strong relationships both within and outside the firm, acting as an effective brand ambassador for DLA Piper, and an internal change agent.
• Exhibit cultural curiosity and competence.
• Be comfortable operating in sometimes ambiguous situations, demonstrating a flexible and collaborative personal working style.

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.

Apply now