Senior Business Development Leader

ghafari; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 126,000 - 154,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k) match

Flexible Spending Accounts

Health Savings Accounts

Teladoc / Telehealth

Educational Assistance

Parental Leave

Paid Time Off

8 Paid Holidays

Job summary

Ghafari is seeking a Senior Business Development Leader in Chicago to drive growth by identifying new clients and opportunities for architectural and engineering services. You will lead proposals and coordinate with design and project teams to align client needs with capabilities.

You will build relationships with decision-makers, attend industry events, and shape strategic plans while tracking performance metrics and revenue growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, architecture, engineering, or related field.
• 10+ years in business development, sales, or client relationship management in A/E/C industry preferred.
• Strong understanding of architectural and engineering services and project lifecycles.
• 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.

Responsibilities

• Identify and develop new business opportunities and lead generation pipelines.
• Build and maintain relationships with key decision-makers and industry partners.
• Collaborate with design, engineering, and marketing teams for tailored proposals and client engagements.
• Prepare responses to RFPs and coordinate client meetings, presentations, and follow-ups.
• Develop and implement business development strategies, track metrics, and report on revenue growth.
• Coordinate with marketing for promotional materials and campaigns; ensure smooth transition from BD to project delivery.

Skills

Lead generation

Relationship building

Proposal development

Strategic planning

CRM proficiency

Education

Bachelor's degree in business or related field

Tools

CRM software

Microsoft Office

Job description

Job Description

General Summary

The Senior Business Development Leader (SBDL) 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 SBDL 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 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.
• 10+ 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 $140,000+. Individual pay is based on factors such as relevant experience, job-related skills, education, and training.

About Us

At Ghafari Associates, we don't just design buildings-we help shape the future of the industries we serve. As a global leader in architecture, engineering, and consulting, we partner with clients to deliver forward-thinking solutions that transform how people work, manufacture, and connect. Our strength lies in our people. We bring together curious minds, technical experts, and creative problem-solvers who thrive on collaboration and innovation. Whether supporting major industrial programs or advancing federal and commercial projects, our teams are empowered to make a meaningful impact-both for our clients and within our communities. We are committed to investing in our employees' financial, physical, and emotional well-being, as well as their professional growth. Through r