OPT Business Development Specialist Jobs
Business Development Specialist roles are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with degrees in business, marketing, or international relations. Most positions qualify as specialty occupations for H-1B visa sponsorship. Your 12-month OPT window, extendable to 36 months with a STEM extension, gives you real runway to prove your value.
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Get Access To All JobsAbout us
For Business Professionals, Winston & Strawn presents an exciting opportunity to be a part of a leading global law firm. With our commitment to excellence, diversity, a collaborative work environment, and an emphasis on professional growth, Winston offers a platform for individuals seeking to advance their careers in a dynamic and rewarding environment. Winston is known for its collaborative and collegial culture. We believe teamwork is an essential component in providing high-quality legal services and we value the talents and skills of our entire business professional team.
Position Summary
The Business Development (BD) Specialist supports the overall marketing and business development efforts of the department, collaborating with team members to implement key initiatives for the assigned department, its practices, and its attorneys, as well as other informally assigned groups or teams.
This role supports the business development efforts of the Finance (Structured Finance), Tax and Restructuring practice groups and their respective business development teams, reporting to the Business Development Manager.
The BD Specialist also assists in the development and execution of practice-wide and cross-practice initiatives, as directed.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Staff Development Framework: Adhere to Professional Excellence, Client Focus, and Leadership & Professionalism standards set forth in the firm’s Staff Development Framework.
- Talent Development: Provide feedback on BD Coordinator performance to manager.
- Lateral Recruiting & Integration: Work with Manager to create all materials needed for pre-arrival packet. Assist in implementing integration plan initiatives.
- Service Delivery: Participate in day-to-day delivery of BD services for assigned practices.
- Strategic Planning: As requested, support execution of strategic planning initiatives.
- Directories & Rankings: Support development of ranking and directory submissions, including referee lists, as requested. Experience with directories such as Chambers USA and Legal 500 is preferred.
- Content & Knowledge Management:
- Actively participate in ongoing maintenance of the firm’s experience system.
- Review materials and input revised or new content into experience system, including deal specific metrics, opposing counsel, and/or other information that may be used again.
- Update or add experience to the experience system, as requested, including from completed directory and ranking submissions.
- Track pitch and proposal activity in the new experience system.
- Proposals/Marketing Collateral: Support development of proposal materials and RFP response content for assigned practices; develop routine pitch materials. Support Manager in developing and maintaining print collateral suite and electronic content in collaboration with brand marketing team on messaging, design, and visual storytelling.
- Marketing & Operations:
- With guidance from Manager, work directly with attorneys on CLE presentations, client briefings, blogs, newsletters, etc., focusing on development of content and distribution list.
- Handle all logistics related to firm-produced events and conference sponsorships including follow-up/ROI with assistance of BD Coordinator; utilize event team support as necessary.
- Update and add experience reports to experience database for assigned practices.
- Track BD expenses against budget for assigned practices; review finance reports and correct misclassified expenses.
- Practice-wide Meetings: Support scheduling and logistical arrangements and other preparations for regular and special practice meetings, including agenda and materials development as assigned.
- Brand Marketing: Support advancing omni-channel marketing strategies and tactics for assigned practices.
- Markets/Offices: Occasionally assist with regional activities and/or office activities as requested, including assisting with planning and executing of local events hosted both in and outside of the office, booth set-ups, and day-of logistical support.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree required.
- 3+ years of business development, sales, marketing, or writing experience in a law firm required.
- Must live within a commutable distance to a firm office with the ability to come into the office 3-4 days per week.
COMPETENCIES
- Experience preparing proposal (RFP) responses, pitch materials, presentations, and other related materials is a plus.
- Strong project management skills/ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
- High proficiency with Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, etc.).
- Experience with CRM, information systems, and database functionality/concepts is a plus.
- Creative, resourceful, and ability to work independently, and as part of a team.
- The ability to build credibility and develop internal and external relationships by demonstrating:
- Excellent oral and written communication skills (email, telephone, and in-person) as well as editing skills.
- Proactive, confident attitude and approach.
- The ability to work under pressure and prioritize projects with enthusiasm.
- The ability to collaborate with colleagues at all levels.
- The ability to provide consistently superior level of service to internal and external clients.
- Professional appearance and ability to speak comfortably in professional and social settings.
This description indicates the general level and nature of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.
BENEFITS
Winston offers comprehensive benefits that provide a full spectrum of coverage and support for our full-time employees and their families.
SALARY
Illinois applicants only: The target annual salary range for this role is currently $102,000-$115,000 based on a regular, full-time schedule. The amount of compensation offered will be determined by several factors, including but not limited to experience, qualifications, market data and internal equity. Total compensation includes a comprehensive healthcare benefits package, yearly retirement contribution, and may include an annual discretionary merit bonus.
Los Angeles & Washington, DC applicants only: The target annual salary range for this role is currently $107,000-$121,000 based on a regular, full-time schedule. The amount of compensation offered will be determined by several factors, including but not limited to experience, qualifications, market data and internal equity. Total compensation includes a comprehensive healthcare benefits package, yearly retirement contribution, and may include an annual discretionary merit bonus.
We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. #LI-DC2
About us
For Business Professionals, Winston & Strawn presents an exciting opportunity to be a part of a leading global law firm. With our commitment to excellence, diversity, a collaborative work environment, and an emphasis on professional growth, Winston offers a platform for individuals seeking to advance their careers in a dynamic and rewarding environment. Winston is known for its collaborative and collegial culture. We believe teamwork is an essential component in providing high-quality legal services and we value the talents and skills of our entire business professional team.
Position Summary
The Business Development (BD) Specialist supports the overall marketing and business development efforts of the department, collaborating with team members to implement key initiatives for the assigned department, its practices, and its attorneys, as well as other informally assigned groups or teams.
This role supports the business development efforts of the Finance (Structured Finance), Tax and Restructuring practice groups and their respective business development teams, reporting to the Business Development Manager.
The BD Specialist also assists in the development and execution of practice-wide and cross-practice initiatives, as directed.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Staff Development Framework: Adhere to Professional Excellence, Client Focus, and Leadership & Professionalism standards set forth in the firm’s Staff Development Framework.
- Talent Development: Provide feedback on BD Coordinator performance to manager.
- Lateral Recruiting & Integration: Work with Manager to create all materials needed for pre-arrival packet. Assist in implementing integration plan initiatives.
- Service Delivery: Participate in day-to-day delivery of BD services for assigned practices.
- Strategic Planning: As requested, support execution of strategic planning initiatives.
- Directories & Rankings: Support development of ranking and directory submissions, including referee lists, as requested. Experience with directories such as Chambers USA and Legal 500 is preferred.
- Content & Knowledge Management:
- Actively participate in ongoing maintenance of the firm’s experience system.
- Review materials and input revised or new content into experience system, including deal specific metrics, opposing counsel, and/or other information that may be used again.
- Update or add experience to the experience system, as requested, including from completed directory and ranking submissions.
- Track pitch and proposal activity in the new experience system.
- Proposals/Marketing Collateral: Support development of proposal materials and RFP response content for assigned practices; develop routine pitch materials. Support Manager in developing and maintaining print collateral suite and electronic content in collaboration with brand marketing team on messaging, design, and visual storytelling.
- Marketing & Operations:
- With guidance from Manager, work directly with attorneys on CLE presentations, client briefings, blogs, newsletters, etc., focusing on development of content and distribution list.
- Handle all logistics related to firm-produced events and conference sponsorships including follow-up/ROI with assistance of BD Coordinator; utilize event team support as necessary.
- Update and add experience reports to experience database for assigned practices.
- Track BD expenses against budget for assigned practices; review finance reports and correct misclassified expenses.
- Practice-wide Meetings: Support scheduling and logistical arrangements and other preparations for regular and special practice meetings, including agenda and materials development as assigned.
- Brand Marketing: Support advancing omni-channel marketing strategies and tactics for assigned practices.
- Markets/Offices: Occasionally assist with regional activities and/or office activities as requested, including assisting with planning and executing of local events hosted both in and outside of the office, booth set-ups, and day-of logistical support.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree required.
- 3+ years of business development, sales, marketing, or writing experience in a law firm required.
- Must live within a commutable distance to a firm office with the ability to come into the office 3-4 days per week.
COMPETENCIES
- Experience preparing proposal (RFP) responses, pitch materials, presentations, and other related materials is a plus.
- Strong project management skills/ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
- High proficiency with Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, etc.).
- Experience with CRM, information systems, and database functionality/concepts is a plus.
- Creative, resourceful, and ability to work independently, and as part of a team.
- The ability to build credibility and develop internal and external relationships by demonstrating:
- Excellent oral and written communication skills (email, telephone, and in-person) as well as editing skills.
- Proactive, confident attitude and approach.
- The ability to work under pressure and prioritize projects with enthusiasm.
- The ability to collaborate with colleagues at all levels.
- The ability to provide consistently superior level of service to internal and external clients.
- Professional appearance and ability to speak comfortably in professional and social settings.
This description indicates the general level and nature of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.
BENEFITS
Winston offers comprehensive benefits that provide a full spectrum of coverage and support for our full-time employees and their families.
SALARY
Illinois applicants only: The target annual salary range for this role is currently $102,000-$115,000 based on a regular, full-time schedule. The amount of compensation offered will be determined by several factors, including but not limited to experience, qualifications, market data and internal equity. Total compensation includes a comprehensive healthcare benefits package, yearly retirement contribution, and may include an annual discretionary merit bonus.
Los Angeles & Washington, DC applicants only: The target annual salary range for this role is currently $107,000-$121,000 based on a regular, full-time schedule. The amount of compensation offered will be determined by several factors, including but not limited to experience, qualifications, market data and internal equity. Total compensation includes a comprehensive healthcare benefits package, yearly retirement contribution, and may include an annual discretionary merit bonus.
We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. #LI-DC2
See all 743+ OPT Business Development Specialist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Business Development Specialist Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Business Development Specialist
Target companies with H-1B sponsorship history
Search Migrate Mate to find Business Development Specialist roles at employers who have sponsored H-1B visas before. Past sponsorship behavior is the most reliable indicator that a company will sponsor you when your OPT ends.
Apply to mid-size companies with growth ambitions
Startups and mid-size companies in expansion mode hire Business Development Specialists to open new markets. They often sponsor visa holders because the role directly drives revenue and replacing a strong performer is costly.
Quantify your pipeline impact from day one
Track every deal you source, every partnership you close, and every revenue figure you influence. Concrete numbers make the H-1B sponsorship conversation easier because your employer can clearly see your business case.
Clarify OPT authorization before your first interview
Business Development roles at some companies require client-facing government contracts that can complicate OPT eligibility. Confirm work authorization requirements early so you are not deep in a process that cannot move forward.
Position yourself for STEM OPT extension if eligible
If your degree is in a STEM-designated field such as information systems or applied mathematics, your 12-month OPT can extend to 36 months. That extra time significantly increases your leverage when negotiating sponsorship timelines.
Bring a sponsorship conversation plan to the offer stage
Waiting until OPT expires to raise the H-1B question is too late. Know your CPT end date, OPT expiry, and cap-subject H-1B lottery deadlines so you can give hiring managers a clear, confident timeline.
Business Development Specialist OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Business Development Specialist role qualify as a specialty occupation for H-1B sponsorship?
Most Business Development Specialist positions qualify as specialty occupations when they require a bachelor's degree in a specific field such as business administration, marketing, or international relations. Roles that are more generalist or where any degree field is accepted may face USCIS scrutiny. The stronger the alignment between your degree field and the job duties, the more straightforward the H-1B petition.
Can I work as a Business Development Specialist on OPT while my employer files for an H-1B?
Yes. If your employer files an H-1B petition by the April 1 cap-subject deadline and you have valid OPT status, you can continue working under OPT while USCIS adjudicates the petition. If your OPT expires before October 1 and the petition is pending, the cap-gap rule automatically extends your work authorization. You do not need to stop working during that window.
What types of companies typically hire Business Development Specialists on OPT?
Technology companies, SaaS platforms, consulting firms, and financial services companies are among the most active hirers of Business Development Specialists who need OPT work authorization. Many of these employers have dedicated immigration support and established H-1B sponsorship processes. Browse Migrate Mate to find verified openings filtered by OPT-friendly employers in this role category.
How does a STEM OPT extension affect my job search as a Business Development Specialist?
A STEM OPT extension gives you up to 24 additional months of work authorization beyond your initial 12-month OPT period. This matters for Business Development roles because it covers two full H-1B lottery cycles, which meaningfully increases your chances of selection. Your employer must be E-Verify enrolled during the extension, so confirm that early. Degrees in information systems, applied mathematics, or business analytics are commonly STEM-designated.
What should I do if a Business Development Specialist job posting says 'no visa sponsorship'?
OPT is not employer sponsorship, so you are authorized to work without the employer filing anything on your behalf during your OPT period. It is worth clarifying this distinction with the recruiter. Many employers who list 'no sponsorship' mean they will not file an H-1B, not that they cannot hire someone on OPT. Ask directly whether they can hire candidates with existing work authorization before assuming the role is closed to you.