Business Development Representative

Ghafari As; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance

401(k) match

Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays

Professional License Reimbursement

Educational Assistance

Job summary

A leading architectural and engineering firm based in Chicago is seeking a Business Development Representative to drive client acquisition and business growth. In this role, you'll establish key relationships, collaborate with internal teams on proposals, and develop strategies aligned with firm objectives. The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's degree, over five years of experience in business development, and strong communication skills. Competitive salary between $100,000 to $125,000, alongside comprehensive benefits, awaits you. Embrace this opportunity to work in a dynamic environment!

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, architecture, engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of proven experience in business development, sales, or client relationship management.
• Strong understanding of architectural and engineering services and industry trends.
• Excellent verbal communication, presentation, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in CRM software, Microsoft Office Suite, and business tools.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.

Responsibilities

• Identify and research potential clients, markets, and industries for new business opportunities.
• Develop and maintain a pipeline of qualified leads through networking and outreach.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with key decision-makers and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with internal teams to develop tailored proposals addressing client needs.
• Track and report on key metrics including lead generation and revenue growth.

Job description

Job Description

The Business Development Representative (BDR) plays a critical role in driving business growth and client acquisition. This position is responsible for identifying, pursuing, and developing new business opportunities, building and maintaining strong relationships with potential clients and partners, and promoting the firm's position as a leading provider of architectural and engineering services. The BDR will work closely with the marketing, design, and project teams to ensure alignment between client needs and the firm's capabilities.

Essential Job Functions

Lead Generation and Prospecting

• Identify and research potential clients, markets, and industries that align with the firm's expertise, capabilities, and experience.
• Develop and maintain a pipeline of qualified leads through networking, cold outreach, industry events, and referrals.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activities, and emerging opportunities.

Relationship Building

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with key decision-makers, stakeholders, and industry partners.
• Serve as the first point of contact for prospective clients, effectively communicating the firm's value proposition and services.
• Identify and attend industry conferences, trade shows, and networking events to represent the firm, build connections, and promote our capabilities.

Proposal Development and Client Engagement

• Collaborate with internal teams (design, engineering, marketing) to develop tailored proposals and presentations that address client needs.
• Assist in preparing responses to Requests for Proposal (RFPs) and other business inquiries.
• Schedule and conduct client meetings, presentations, and follow‑up conversations to advance opportunities.

Strategic Planning and Reporting

• Work with leadership to develop and implement business development strategies and goals.
• Track and report on key metrics, including lead generation, conversion rates, and revenue growth.
• Provide insights and recommendations based on client feedback and market analysis.

Collaboration and Teamwork

• Partner with our internal marketing team to develop promotional materials, campaigns, and strategies that support business development efforts.
• Collaborate with project teams to ensure seamless transitions from business development to project execution.
• Act as a liaison between clients and internal teams to ensure client satisfaction and project alignment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, architecture, engineering, or a related field.
• 5+ years of proven experience in business development, sales, or client relationship management, preferably in the architectural, engineering, or construction industry.
• Strong understanding of architectural and engineering services, project lifecycles, and industry trends.
• Excellent verbal communication, presentation, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment.
• Proficiency in CRM software, Microsoft Office Suite, and other business tools.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.

Preferred Skills

• Familiarity with design and construction processes, including permitting, planning, and project management.
• Experience with marketing strategies and tools, including digital marketing and social media.
• Existing network of industry contacts and relationships.

Key Attributes

• Results‑driven and goal‑oriented.
• Creative problem‑solving skills.
• Professional and polished demeanor.
• Passion for architecture, engineering, and design.

Benefits

At Ghafari, we offer a robust benefits package designed to support your overall wellbeing. In addition to a competitive salary, eligible employees receive Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short‑Term & Long‑Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Teladoc, Employee Assistance Program, Professional License Reimbursement, Educational Assistance, Voluntary Pet Insurance, Parental Leave, Paid Time Off, and 8 Paid Holidays. The annual pay rate for this position is $100,000 to $125,000. Individual pay is based on factors such as relevant experience, job‑related skills, education, and training.

Since 1982, Ghafari Associates has taken a personal approach to highly technical projects in complex markets including: aviation, manufacturing, healthcare, retail, hospitality, K‑12 and higher education. As a global team of engineers, architects, process designers, and consultants we blend insight with technological innovation helping clients elevate their efficiency, sustainability, and impact.

Continuously rated a Top Workplace to Work (https://topworkplaces.com/company/ghafari-associates-l-l/freep/) , Crain’s Cool Place to Work (https://www.crainsdetroit.com/cool) , and a Best and Brightest (https://www.ghafari.com/news-and-views/ghafari-is-a-best-and-brightest-company-in-detroit-chicago-west-michigan) company to work for in the US, Ghafari has made a name for itself through our culture, employee benefits, and portfolio of projects (https://www.ghafari.com/projects) .

Over a quarter of Ghafari employees have diverse identities that are championed by our growing approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Ghafari supports hybrid and in‑office work environments.

Through career mapping, Ghafari employees are encouraged to seek licensure, coached for knowledge growth, and provided opportunities for management and mentorship roles if interested. Our robust internship program recognizes undergraduate and graduate students from across the world, having an over 90% success rate of hiring our interns after graduation.

Join our team and work on forward‑thinking projects all around the world. Ghafari’s global reach creates an environment where individuals can build professional relationships while building sustainable and cutting‑edge facilities. Are you ready to take that leap? Apply Now!

Ghafari Associates, LLC is an Equal Opportunity / Aff…

Connect to our job portal https://ghafari.jobs

By fax at 313.436.8624; Attn: Human Resources

By mail at 17101 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, MI 48126; Attn: Human Resources

In person at 17101 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, MI 48126.

By email at [e-mail]

If there are any questions or additional accommodations that are required, please contact 313.441.3000 for assistance.

It is Ghafari Associates, LLC’s policy not to discriminate in its employment and personnel practices because of a person’s race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, age, weight, height, marital, pregnancy or parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, status as a qualified individual with a disability or a protected veteran, or any other classification protected by federal, state or local law or ordinance.