Business Development Leader, K-12

We are seeking a dynamic Business Development Leader to drive the growth of our K-12 Education practice. We operate within a hybrid work model, supporting flexibility between office time and work from home. Considering this model, this role could be based in the following cities:  

• Riverside

Position Summary: 

Are you someone with an eye for identifying decision-makers and who enjoys building and cultivating lasting, mutually beneficial relationships? If so, our Business Development Leader position at DLR Group is for you! We have a phenomenal opportunity for a motivated individual to join our team. We are seeking a socially fearless, entrepreneurial spirited business development individual to pave the way for our integrated design teams. Our ideal candidate will be trusted to dive right in, take the lead and use initiative to help discovery new and untapped opportunities while continuing to maintain relationships with current clients to support our design work focused within our K-12 sector.  

We are an employee-owned firm where everyone is empowered to use their design voice; this inspires our culture and fuels the passion for the work we do around the world. Bring your creativity and passion and come join us in our mission to elevate the human experience through design!  

What you will do:  

• Lead and manage business development efforts for the California K-12 Education sector, providing mentorship and guidance to the integrated design team. 
• Partner with the NorCal K12 BD Leader to organize and drive conferences, project PR strategy, marketing materials and award submittals 
• Review and enhance proposal content and marketing materials to support business development efforts 
• Develop and implement strategies to drive growth and expand market presence 
• Stay informed on national and regional sector portfolios, market trends, key publications, and industry associations 
• Build and nurture relationships with key partners, including contractors, developers, and consultants 
• Collaborate with management and technical teams to identify new project opportunities, strengthen client relationships, and expand business connections 
• Work closely with global, national, and regional sector leadership to align and execute marketing and business development initiatives 
• Maintain a visible presence both internally and externally, offering thought leadership and guidance on business development and marketing 
• Lead Business Development meetings to align strategies and actions with studio and office leadership 

Required Qualifications:

• 6+ years of business development experience (preferably in marketing education, design, or construction, with a focus on architecture, engineering, or economic development)
• Familiarity with the K-12 client network in Southern California
• Proven experience in public procurement and proposal document preparation, including tailored language and persuasive storytelling
• Proficient in business planning and presentation software (Excel, PowerPoint)
• Excellent collaboration skills with institutions, organizations, and internal teams
• Strong organizational abilities, adept at multitasking, prioritizing, and working under pressure
• Skilled in marketing strategy, relationship-building, and business development
• Self-starter with an entrepreneurial mindset, able to solve problems independently