Senior Client Relationship Manager Top tier law firm - Canberra Centre and Government Sector Lead

• This is an exciting new era for Mallesons - King & Wood Mallesons’ Australian and Chinese partnerships have agreed to formally separate. From 31 March 2026, we will be known as Mallesons in Australia the go-to independent top tier firm in this market.
• In parallel, the firm is gearing up to launch its 2030 strategic plan – a 5-year blueprint for growth. This role presents a rare opportunity to be part of this exciting and rewarding period.
• This is a senior BD role responsible for driving business growth by leading business development and marketing strategies, managing key client relationships, and guiding a team to strengthen the firm’s market presence and revenue.
• Canberra Centre and Government Sector Lead.

Who are we?

We help our clients manage their risk and enable their growth. Our full-service offering combines un-matched top tier local capability complemented with an international platform.

We have deep roots in Australia spanning almost 200 years and acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the traditional owners and custodians of these lands and waters.

Role Detail

Based in the small but mighty Canberra office, this is a hands-on role needing a client first thinker. Reporting to Director of Markets & Regions, the core focus of this role is to lead, develop and execute the business development strategies and marketing activities for the Government Sector and Canberra centre.

Working closely with Canberra partners and supporting a dual strategy of targeting and growing both government and private sector clients, this pivotal Senior BD role will grow revenue, strengthen long-term client relationships, and make sure the firm is visible, competitive, and well-positioned in its key markets, while providing exceptional service delivery for Canberra and National Government clients.

As a member of the National Business Development & Marketing team, you will add value through driving and supporting:

• the Canberra Centre and Government Sector
• the development and leadership of 2 direct reports.

Leading in the development, preparation and execution of strategic plans will include:

• Planning and strategy development for the Canberra Centre and Government Sector with a strong focus on identifying new business opportunities and driving growth
• Direct client engagement and driving aspects of the firm’s client relationship program both in Canberra and more broadly across Australia and internationally
• Opportunity pursuits and tender/bid submissions
• Staying ahead of industry and competitor trends, identifying and implementing innovative client and business development strategies focused on growth
• Overseeing the development of BD infrastructure and focusing on efficient processes and practices including through AI and collaboration with the national and regional BD teams.

About You

With exceptional stakeholder management skills, and an ability to influence and engage across all levels, your points of difference will be your commerciality; ability to connect the dots and build authentic relationships based on trust; and your ability to navigate a team during a time of change. You will also bring:

• Solid relevant experience with demonstrated track record of success in business development, key account management and team management, within a corporate or professional services environment.
• Demonstrable experience working with cross-practice and cross-sector teams with a proven ability to identify and pursue growth opportunities.
• Commercial understanding of key factors of success in business and practice development, and key account management.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, strong presentation skills, advanced influencing and negotiating skills at senior levels.
• Ability to communicate powerfully with senior management and partners.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and stakeholders simultaneously, at both operational and strategic levels.
• Ability to lead and mentor junior members of the team.

Next Steps

Please click ‘Apply Now’ to apply online with your cover letter summarising why you’re applying and your resume to support your experience.

Applications close COB AEDT Thursday 19th February 2026.

If you have any questions or need any further information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Bridget on 02 9296 3563.

Why work with us?

We promote a collaborative culture where people feel respected, valued and supported both personally and professionally, and where diversity and inclusion also play an important role in enhancing our knowledge, driving innovative solutions for our clients and creating positive social impact. 

We live by our Principles, and strive for mastery in all that we do.  We take pride in the high quality work we deliver. Working with colleagues and clients who are leaders in their fields, means the ability to explore new paths to progress with continual learning and development, career and leadership opportunities.

As part of the KWM community you’ll have access to a suite of wellbeing initiatives, benefits, policies and processes, to enable you to achieve your career goals.

At KWM, we’ll provide you with the platform to Learn, Master, Lead.