Business Development Representative

Business Development Representative

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.

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, Crain's Cool Place to Work, and a Best and Brightest company to work for in the US, Ghafari has made a name for itself through our culture, employee benefits, and portfolio of 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.