What are the responsibilities and job description for the Business Development Specialist position at Architectural Nexus?
We are seeking a dynamic and results-driven Business Development Professional to lead strategic growth initiatives for our architecture firm. This key leadership role is responsible for identifying new business opportunities, cultivating client relationships, and driving revenue growth in alignment with our firm's vision. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in the architecture, engineering, or construction (AEC) industry, with proven expertise in market analysis, client engagement, and strategic planning. As a collaborative leader, you will work closely with firm leadership, communications, and marketing teams, to win high-impact projects.
Responsibilities:
- Engage with Principals to help them connect and develop their market sectors and clients.
- Participate in the development and execution of a strategic business development plan to drive revenue and market growth.
- Identify and pursue new business opportunities, including public and private sector projects with specific focus towards the Intermountain region.
- Research and analyze market trends, industry developments, and competitor activity to inform strategy.
- Collaborate with firm leadership to set growth targets and align business development efforts with company goals.
- Establish and maintain strong relationships with clients, developers, contractors, and key industry stakeholders.
- Act as the primary point of contact for new business inquiries. Prioritize and transition these opportunities to the appropriate members of the team.
- Develop and implement client engagement strategies to foster long-term partnerships.
- Partner with design and project teams to align business development efforts with the firm’s capabilities and strengths.
- Foster a culture of collaboration across departments to support firm-wide growth objectives.
- Participate in the effort to analyze and report on business development KPIs, including pipeline progress, win/loss rates, and revenue growth.
- Attend industry events, conferences and client meetings that may be on weekends, early mornings or after hours.
Required Skills and Qualifications:
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field (Master’s degree or MBA is a plus).
- 10 years of experience in business development, sales, or marketing within the architecture, engineering, or construction (AEC) industry.
- Proven track record of securing new business, developing client relationships, and driving revenue growth.
Industry Knowledge & Skills
- Deep understanding of architectural services, project delivery methods, and industry trends.
- Strong knowledge of procurement processes, RFQs, RFPs, and contract negotiations.
- Familiarity with local, regional, and national markets in architecture and real estate development.
Sales & Business Development Abilities
- Strategic thinking and planning skills to develop and execute business growth initiatives.
- Excellent ability to identify, cultivate, and close business opportunities.
- Strong networking and relationship-building skills with clients, developers, contractors, and industry leaders.
Technology & Tools
- Proficiency in CRM software (Deltek Vantagepoint or similar) for pipeline management.
- Comfortable using data analytics and reporting tools to track business development performance.
Personal Attributes
- Self-motivated, proactive, and results-driven with a passion for the built environment.
- Strong negotiation and persuasion skills to close deals and secure high-value projects.
- Ability to adapt to market changes and industry shifts while keeping the firm competitive.
- Collaborative and ready to work in a team setting.
Benefits:
- Employee-Owned Firm (ESOP): Be part of an employee-owned company, fostering a culture of shared success and long-term investment.
- Growth-Oriented Environment: Enjoy the resources and opportunities of a large firm while benefiting from the close-knit, collaborative culture of a smaller organization.
- Comprehensive Health Coverage: Competitive medical and dental benefits to support your well-being.
- Retirement Savings Plan: Employer-matching 401(k) and Roth 401(k) options to help you plan for the future.
- Performance-Based Bonuses: Biannual bonus program recognizing contributions and achievements.
- Paid Time Off: Competitive holiday and vacation benefits to support work-life balance.
- Community Engagement: Paid volunteer time to give back to causes that matter to you.
- Parental Leave: Six weeks of paid leave to support growing families.