Business Development Manager

Job Description Job Description Business Development Manager For five decades, HPI Architecture has shaped environments that do more than function, they inspire, support, and enrich lives across generations. Our work bridges people and place, creating meaningful spaces rooted in purpose and designed with intention. Our brand promise reflects who we are: With intention, we approach each project with curiosity, creativity, collaboration, and technical finesse. Fully engaging in the process, we design places that reflect the vision and values of our clients and the people they serve. At HPI, you’ll grow through continuing education, mentorship, and professional development, with opportunities to expand your skills and elevate your craft. We also offer a flexible schedule and hybrid work options to support balance, collaboration, creativity, and well‑being. As we embark on the next 50 years, we’re seeking a Business Development Manager to help strengthen and expand our footprint in the Education marketplace and support the continued growth of our Education Studio statewide. How You Will Make an Impact: Lead and coordinate all business development activities in the Education marketplace in collaboration with Principals and studio leadership. Develop a comprehensive Business Development Plan—including strategic vision, initiatives, budget planning, and revenue projections. Build and maintain a deep understanding of the California education market, sharing insights and trends with internal teams. Identify, cultivate, and nurture new relationships while strengthening existing client and partner connections. Facilitate introductions between prospective clients and key HPI team members. Attend industry conferences, networking events, and association meetings to represent HPI and expand our visibility. Pursue leads, track opportunities, and manage client engagement activities across the region. Evaluate opportunities through a structured Go/No-Go process, considering fees, client credibility, project scope, and alignment with firm goals. Partner with the Marketing team on RFP/RFQ responses, value propositions, messaging, and sector-focused marketing initiatives. Work with project teams to prepare for client interviews and presentations. Support leadership in reviewing and implementing CRM strategies and firmwide technology initiatives. Develop, track, and report on KPIs related to business development performance. To Be Successful in This Role, You Must: Demonstrate exceptional interpersonal, communication, and relationship-building skills. Navigate a fast-paced environment while managing multiple priorities and deadlines. Have a strong understanding of the California education market—including K–12 districts, community colleges, private universities, and student housing sectors. Bring an established network within the A/E/C Education sector, including clients, PM/CM firms, general contractors, consultants, and associations such as CASH, CCFC, SCUP, CMAA, and SMPS. Balance strategy and execution—thinking long-term while acting decisively and responsively. Communicate effectively with internal teams and collaborate across all levels of the organization. To Qualify, You Must Have: 5+ years of business development experience in a professional services environment—AEC experience strongly preferred. Ability to work in a hybrid capacity from either our Newport Beach or San Diego office. Ability to travel regularly within the Southern California region. Availability for occasional overnight travel outside of Southern California. Pay, Perks & Benefits Flexible Schedule and Hybrid Work Opportunities Vacation and Sick time Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance with additional Supplemental Insurance options 401(k) Ongoing professional development with access to continuing education and meaningful mentorship Licensure Assistance Salary Range: $110,000.00 To $150,000.00 Annually Our Core Values CLIENT CENTERED: We’re all in—listening first, collaborating closely, anticipating needs, and actively engaging with our project partners and one another. DESIGN EXCELLENCE: We dig deep to uncover the unique needs of our clients—shaping purposeful, inspiring, and enduring spaces for solutions rooted in people. PROFESSIONAL INTEGRITY: We own our role and take pride in our work, delivering an exceptional experience every step of the way that excites. Ready to help shape the next 50 years of meaningful design? We’d love to meet you! Recruiters, please do not contact this job poster.