Client Development Manager

Client Development Manager

A nationally recognized architecture and design firm headquartered in Atlanta is seeking a Client Development Manager to drive new client acquisition and expand existing relationships across the firm's strategic market sectors. This is a newly created, dedicated pursuits role designed to free up firm principals and market sector leaders to focus on client relationships and project delivery, while this individual drives the front-end pipeline.

This is a high-visibility, high-impact role for a self-motivated Architecture/Engineering/Construction (AEC) professional who understands how architecture and design firms win work, knows how to build relationships with owners, developers, and institutional clients, and thrives in a consultative, relationship-driven pursuits environment.

What You Will Do

• Develop and execute an annual business development plan aligned with the firm's strategic growth objectives across healthcare, education, worship, and commercial sectors
• Identify, qualify, and pursue new business opportunities through proactive outreach, networking, industry events, referrals, and direct prospecting
• Build and maintain a robust pipeline of prospective clients and active opportunities
• Schedule and lead introductory meetings, discovery conversations, and follow-up meetings with prospective clients and key decision-makers
• Advance opportunities through each stage of the sales process and transition qualified pursuits to firm principals and market sector leaders
• Identify expansion opportunities within existing and former client accounts
• Maintain accurate CRM records, pipeline forecasts, and business development activity reports
• Partner with marketing and technical staff on proposals, interview preparation, and pursuit strategy
• Monitor market trends, economic development activity, and competitive intelligence across target sectors
• Meet or exceed annual sales activity, pipeline, and revenue objectives

What You Bring

• 3 to 7 years of business development or sales experience, with at least 2 years in architecture, engineering, construction, commercial real estate, or a related professional services industry
• Demonstrated track record of generating new business and achieving revenue goals
• Strong relationship-building, presentation, and networking skills
• Experience with CRM platforms and pipeline management
• Self-motivated, organized, and disciplined in follow-up and activity management
• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field preferred
• Existing relationships with owners, developers, or institutional clients in the Atlanta market are a significant plus

Bonus Points

• SMPS membership (Society for Marketing Professional Services)
• Experience supporting RFP responses, proposals, and interview presentations in an AEC environment
• Familiarity with public sector procurement processes (GSFIC, GSA, local government)

Compensation and Benefits

• Base salary: $80,000 to $90,000 commensurate with experience
• Incentive compensation on net new revenue generated
• Full benefits package including health, dental, and vision
• High-visibility role with direct access to firm leadership
• Significant growth potential as the firm expands its business development function