Vice President, Business Development

Weber Shandwick, recognized as 2006 Large PR Firm of the Year by PR News and as 'the gold standard' by the Holmes Group in its 2006 Agency Report Card, is a leader in global marketing public relations and corporate communications counseling. Our mission is tied to one goal - winning for our clients. With unparalleled depth and breadth of expertise, the finest talent in the industry and a commitment to delivering measurable results, Weber Shandwick creates what clients need to grow: a legion of believers, supporters, allies and fans. We develop programs designed to move people faster to the highest form of loyalty - advocacy - by mobilizing advocates for our clients early on in the communications process.

Weber Shandwick's Cambridge office is looking for a Vice President, Business Development who will be responsible for leading Weber Shandwick's business development efforts for the New England region, as well as providing support to the business development efforts of Weber Shandwick's global and national network. The Vice President must possess strong consultative sales and marketing skills in a professional services setting. Strong interpersonal skills, project management, attention to detail, and ability to meet and work against tight deadlines are also crucial to success in this role.

In this highly visible role, the Vice President, Business Development, reports to the chairperson of the New England office and works closely with the Weber Shandwick's national business development team and individual pitch teams, to drive and support diverse pursuits. The role will often serve as a liaison for the team and senior executives.

Responsibilities:
Create a regular schedule of marketing events and routines to identify and cultivate new business opportunities Partner with executive management ensure that annual growth targets are achieved Make initial contact with prospective clients and participate in presentations with the pitch teams, as needed. Coach pitch teams to ensure that best sales practices are incorporated Supervise the development of customized RFI/RFP responses and capabilities documents Manage and mentor support team, consisting of a coordinating manager, media specialist and freelance graphic designer Work with business development team, practice and pitch leaders to refine and finalize submissions; Drive development of pitch-specific materials, including PowerPoint presentations, videos, microsites and diverse collateral materials, working in partnership with business development team, practice and pitch leaders; Liaise with business development leads across U.S. offices, Interpublic Group of Companies sister agencies and third-party partners (research, video production/editing, graphic design, production, etc.) to support business development opportunities; Respond to business development-related requests for information from local markets;

Success Factors
Track record of strategic marketing and sales Strong network in the business community, local and national Creative mindset; not afraid to break the status quo Strong oral and written business communications skills Strong financial acumen (able to accurately track cost of sales) Attentive to detail and quality Ability to lead projects and interact with colleagues and executives at all levels Strong commitment and dedication to agency's success as well as to personal career Proficient in Microsoft Suite, including PowerPoint, Internet, online services/databases

Requirements
Bachelor's Degree 4-6 years' business development experience in a professional services environment is preferred

Please send your resume and cover letter, including salary requirements, to JobsCambridge@webershandwick.com  

Weber Shandwick is an Equal Opportunity Employer.