Maxwell Locke & Ritter is proud to announce Ben Durham’s promotion to Director of Business Development. Based in Austin, Ben focuses on the firm’s strategic growth efforts, bringing a relationship-centered approach to connecting with the Central Texas business community.
Ben joined ML&R in 2024 as Business Development Manager, bringing experience cultivating meaningful relationships throughout the Greater Austin area. His career has given him opportunities to connect with business leaders across industries and understand the challenges and opportunities shaping their organizations. In his new role, he will build on that experience to strengthen our connections with clients, prospective clients, and referral partners, helping us grow while maintaining the personal approach that defines our firm.
A Career Built on Relationships
Originally from Kentucky, Ben began his career in Central Texas with Johnson Controls. He later worked at ADP and Paylocity before developing a sales program for an international startup. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Eastern Kentucky University.
When he joined ML&R, Ben shared that the firm’s culture and team drew him to the opportunity. He was particularly excited to collaborate with colleagues, work with clients, and introduce newly relocated businesses to the firm.
Those priorities reflect the personal connections at the heart of business development: getting to know people, understanding their goals, and building relationships over time.
“What I enjoy most about business development is getting to know people, understanding their goals, and finding ways to help,” said Durham. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to grow with ML&R and work alongside a team that cares deeply about our clients and the Central Texas community.”
Connected to the Central Texas Community
Ben’s community involvement includes serving on the board of Austin Speech Labs, serving on the Leadership Committee for Blood Cancer United, being a member of the CASA Fundraising Committee, and his involvement with Opportunity Austin by serving on the Business Retention & Expansion Council, the International Soft Landing Sub-Council, and the Global Investment & Innovation Council.
Ben’s connection to Austin extends beyond his professional work. He values the people who make the region unique and the innovation, passion, and authenticity its business leaders bring to the community.
Please join us in congratulating Ben on his promotion. We look forward to his continued contributions to ML&R’s strategic growth efforts and relationships.