Director of Marketing and Business Development

Director Of Marketing And Business Development

We are seeking a seasoned and strategic Director of Marketing and Business Development with a strong network of industry contacts and a proven ability to win work for our client in the AEC industry in Irvine, CA. This individual will play a critical leadership role in shaping the firm's growth strategy, enhancing brand visibility, deepening client relationships, and expanding market share across key sectors.

The ideal candidate is a proactive connector, a strategic thinker, and an inspiring leader who blends creative vision with business acumen, and who thrives in a collaborative, design-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement an integrated marketing and business development strategy aligned with the firm's long-term vision
• Serve as a strategic advisor to the CEO and leadership team on firm positioning, opportunity forecasting, and brand development
• Identify new markets and build strategic partnerships, leveraging personal networks and industry relationships

Client Development & Relationship Management

• Leverage an established network of clients and contacts to generate leads and secure project opportunities
• Represent the company at key industry events, conferences, and speaking engagements to elevate visibility and foster new connections
• Lead proposal and interview strategies for high-value pursuits, ensuring clear differentiation and a client-focused approach
• Collaborate with design teams to deliver seamless client experience from initial contact through project completion

Pipeline & Growth Management

• Build, maintain, and report on a robust project pipeline across targeted market sectors
• Track and analyze BD performance metrics (win rates, pipeline value, market penetration) to inform decision-making
• Align pursuit efforts with studio capacity and sector priorities to ensure strategic growth

Marketing Oversight

• Direct all aspects of firm marketing, including brand strategy, digital content, thought leadership, collateral development, and PR
• Guide the creation of compelling proposals, presentations, and promotional materials that reflect our client's design excellence
• Ensure consistency and creativity across all messaging and brand touchpoints
• Manage internal marketing staff and external consultants to meet strategic objectives

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of experience in marketing, business development, or client strategy within the AEC or professional services industries
• Proven success in securing large-scale, high-value projects
• Established network of clients, consultants, and industry partners
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and leadership skills
• Strong understanding of architectural services, client dynamics, and project lifecycles
• Proficient in CRM platforms, proposal management tools, and digital marketing best practices
• Bachelor's degree in marketing, Communications, Architecture, Business, or related field (Master's is a plus)

EEO Compliance:

Ryde is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Ryde will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law.