Business Development Leader P5

GRAEF; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 125,000 - 155,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible hours/hybrid schedule

Paid parental leave

Medical/dental/vision insurance

Retirement savings plan

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

GRAEF is seeking a dynamic Business Development Leader in Chicago, IL, to expand client relationships across various sectors. The ideal candidate will have at least 8 years of experience in technical market development and possess a Bachelor’s degree in engineering, urban planning, or landscape architecture. The role involves leading projects, managing client relationships, and presenting to clients confidently. Comprehensive benefits including flexible hours and a supportive culture make GRAEF an excellent employer.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years of experience in technical market development.
• Success in business development planning and client development.
• Professional PE or AICP PLA license.

Responsibilities

• Lead projects and oversee financial performance.
• Serve as a key resource for multidisciplinary teams.
• Present confidently to clients and negotiate contracts.

Skills

Business development

Client relationship management

Project management

Strategic planning

Technical expertise

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering, urban planning or landscape architecture

Job description

We are looking for dynamic, results-driven Business Development Leaders to join our Chicago, IL office to expand our presence and maintain strong client relationships across higher education, healthcare, corporate office, mixed‑use, industrial markets, and road, highway, bridge, or municipal sectors.

What You'll Do:

• Be Hands‑On & Innovative Stay engaged in the design process while maintaining billable hour responsibilities, ensuring that your technical expertise directly contributes to project success.
• Take Charge of Game‑Changing Projects Lead projects by setting priorities, developing objectives, and overseeing financial performance to deliver high‑impact solutions that shape communities.
• Be a Go‑To Expert Serve as a key technical resource for multidisciplinary teams, providing insights and leadership.
• Own the Room Present to clients with confidence, negotiate contracts like a pro, and cultivate relationships that drive long‑term success.
• Thrive in a Fast‑Paced, Evolving Industry Juggle multiple priorities with ease, stay ahead of trends, and bring adaptability and strategic thinking to every challenge.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, urban planning or landscape architecture.
• Minimum 8 years of experience developing and managing a technical market or business development, and selling technical services to architectural and municipal clients in IL.
• Success in business development planning, including strategic business plans, marketing activities, client development, presentation experience and proposal development.
• Established architectural relationships strongly preferred.
• Technical project management experience desired.
• Professional PE or AICP PLA license.
• Proven leadership experience highly preferred.

Benefits

• The salary range for this position is $125,000‑$155,000, adjusted for education, experience and skill set, and internal and external equity.
• Training, mentorship, and leadership development programs.
• A team atmosphere dedicated to open communications and collaboration.
• Flexible hours/hybrid schedule.
• Community activity participation supported by GRAEF.
• Free parking.
• Paid parental leave.
• Paid time off.
• Medical/dental/vision insurance.
• Life insurance.
• Short‑term and long‑term disability.
• Flexible spending plans.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Casual dress.

An Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer – Disabled/Vets.