Business Development Leader

DesignGroup is a mission-driven architecture and design firm committed to creating environments that promote sustainability, occupant health, and long-term impact. As we continue to grow, we're seeking a strategic and collaborative Business Development Leader to help advance our presence in key markets and expand our network of purpose-aligned clients.

Summary: The Business Development Leader plays a critical role in shaping how clients experience and engage with DesignGroup. This role is responsible for identifying new business opportunities, cultivating strong client relationships, and leading strategic pursuits that align with the firm’s growth goals. The ideal candidate is a relationship-builder, a strategic thinker, and a passionate advocate for design excellence and purpose-driven work.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

Create Market Visibility (Opening Game)
•Represent DesignGroup at industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities.
•Identify and participate in organizations and peer networks that align with our market focus andexpertise.
•Collaborate on strategic marketing campaigns and thought leadership to elevate our visibility andpositioning.
•Contribute to the development of annual marketing and business development plans.

Build and Cultivate Relationships (Middle Game)
•Develop and nurture long-term relationships with prospective and current clients.
•Maintain consistent contact with past prospects and previously submitted proposals to reengageopportunities.
•Coordinate with consultants and strategic partners to strengthen pursuit teams and value offerings.
•Maintain accuracy and consistency of clients and pursuit data in our CRM system.

Pursue and Win Work (End Game)
•Lead or support pursuit strategy for RFQs, RFPs, and other project solicitations.
•Work closely with practice groups to align strategy with firm goals.
•Collaborate with the marketing team on pursuit materials that are tailored, competitive, and visuallycompelling.
•Assist in storytelling, technical writing, and proposal editing.
•Support interview preparation and presentation coaching for pursuit teams.

•Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Architecture, or related field.
•6+ years of experience in business development or client strategy within the A/E/C industry.
•Demonstrated success in identifying, pursuing, and winning work in relevant markets.
•Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and storytelling skills.
•Highly proficient in CRM tools, Adobe InDesign, and Microsoft Office Suite.
•Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities under deadlines.
•SMPS involvement or industry engagement preferred.

Success in This Role Looks Like:
•Increasing volume and quality of qualified leads and pursuits.
•Strengthening market visibility and DesignGroup's client network.
•Improving pursuit win rate through strategy and team alignment.
•Advancing a culture of client development across the firm.

Work Environment & Benefits
•Hybrid schedule (3 days in-office expected).
•Collaborative and mission-driven team culture.
•Competitive compensation and benefits.
•Professional development support and industry memberships

Equal Employment OpportunityDesignGroup is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We don’t just accept difference – we embrace it, support it and grow from it for the benefit of our employees, customers and our community.