Business Development Representative

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

401(k) with match

Paid Time Off

Educational Assistance

Job summary

A leading architectural and engineering firm is seeking a Business Development Representative to drive growth in Chicago, IL. This role requires identifying new business opportunities and maintaining client relationships. Ideal candidates will have a bachelor's degree and 5+ years of experience in business development, preferably within the architectural or engineering sectors. The firm offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and life insurance. Join this dynamic team to contribute to exciting projects and initiatives.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in business development, sales, or client relationship management.
• Strong understanding of architectural and engineering services.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Identify and research potential clients and markets.
• Establish and maintain relationships with key decision-makers.
• Collaborate with internal teams to develop proposals.

Skills

Lead generation

Relationship building

Presentation skills

Negotiation

CRM software proficiency

Education

Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, architecture, engineering, or a related field

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

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 the 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.

Equal Opportunity

Ghafari Associates, LLC Is An Equal Opportunity /Affirmative Action Employer And Is Committed To Providing Reasonable Accommodations To Individuals With Disabilities In The Employment Application Process. If You Need An Accommodation Due To a Disability In Order To Use Our Online System To Apply For a Position At Ghafari Associates, LLC, You May Apply For Positions In The Following Ways 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.