Director of Marketing & Professional Development

Willms & Shier Environmental Lawyers LLP is a full service environmental law firm.

The Director is responsible for business development, marketing activities and professional development for associates. Prior marketing experience in a law firm environment is an asset. Demonstrable and in-depth understanding of environmental law and policy issues is essential. Responsibilities will include developing new business leads, nurturing current business relationships and developing and implementing marketing plans and initiatives.

All of the above must be carried out with an understanding of W+SEL’s goals, culture and strategic thinking.

Candidate MUST:

  • have strong interpersonal, organizational and administrative skills
  • be able to prioritize and manage a varied workload
  • possess excellent oral/written communication skills with a strong attention to detail

Responsibilities

  • Reports to the Managing Director of the firm
  • Directs the development implementation and evaluation of the firm’s marketing strategies and programs
  • Provides coaching and advice to lawyers on marketing strategies, facilitates the development and implementation of individual marketing plans
  • Responsible for the implementation and execution of marketing programs and strategies, building relationship within the firm to ensure the success of business development strategies and program
  • Develops and executes marketing plans and programs to support objectives
  • Develops a detailed budget for the marketing department to support the needs of the firm; manages and monitors expenditures against the budget
  • Manages firm marketing meetings
  • Manages special events
  • Implements the marketing training program for lawyers and staff
  • Identifies legal and industry sponsorship and speaking opportunities in line with the practice business development plan
  • Identifies media opportunities, including article placement; identifies publication, website and other areas to maximize reach to targeted audiences
  • Involved with bi-monthly newsletters
  • Participates in business development initiatives including responses to RFP’s, market research, presentations to clients and potential clients and cross-selling opportunities
  • Takes ownership of all relevant firm content, including practice descriptions, lawyer profiles, case studies and web content; works with marketing copywriter to create and update content
  • Oversees website and ensures the firm’s web presence supports the business objectives of the firm
  • Manages information flow including lawyer biographies, practice area descriptions and news activities
  • Directs and manages the development of marketing materials, advertising and special events
  • Involved in strategic planning
  • Serves as liaison with outside agencies on ongoing promotional campaigns
  • Oversees development and production of promotional and collateral materials
  • Oversees development and maintenance of client database
  • Establishes and maintains a consistent W+SEL image
  • Supports the practice groups in developing their plans and strategies and participates in monthly meetings
  • Tracks projects and business development leads
  • Analyzes marketing data and prepares reports

Education

  • LLB designation
  • A degree or diploma would be beneficial in Marketing or Business Communications

Experience

  • 3-5 years experience in a legal marketing position
  • Understanding of environmental law and policy essential
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Strong writing, editing and proofreading skills
  • Understands the needs and expectations of lawyers and law firm clients
  • Proficiency using MS Office Suite – Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Excel
  • Database management experience preferred
  • Familiarity with design and desktop publishing principles
  • Knowledge of marketing techniques and principles
  • Ability to multi-task, prioritize, meet deadlines and organize effectively
  • Capacity to work with a minimum of supervision