Business Development Representative

Ghafari Associates, LLC; 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

Job summary

Ghafari Associates, LLC is hiring a Business Development Representative in Chicago, Illinois. This role focuses on driving business growth through lead generation, client engagement, and proposal development.

The ideal candidate will have a strong business background, excellent communication skills, and key experience in the architectural or engineering industry. Competitive benefits and a salary range between $100,000 and $125,000 are offered.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of proven experience in business development or sales.
• Strong understanding of architectural and engineering services.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Responsibilities

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

Skills

Lead generation

Client relationship management

Excellent verbal communication

Negotiation skills

Project management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, architecture, or engineering

Tools

CRM software

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Overview

The Business Development Representative (BDR) plays a critical role in driving business growth and client acquisition for a leading provider of architectural and engineering services.

Core Responsibilities

• Lead Generation and Prospecting: Identify and research potential clients, markets, and industries that align with the firm’s expertise; 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.
• Proposal Development and Client Engagement: Collaborate with internal teams (design, engineering, marketing) to develop tailored proposals and presentations; 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 internal marketing and project teams to develop promotional materials, campaigns, and strategies; collaborate with project teams to ensure seamless transitions from business development to project execution; act as 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

• Annual salary range: $100,000 to $125,000, commensurate with experience.
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short‑Term and 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; 8 Paid Holidays.

Ghafari Associates, LLC is an Equal Opportunity / Affidavit Action employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities in the employment application process.