Director of Business Development

R.E. Crawford Construction , a national commercial general contractor specializing in retail, restaurant, tenant improvement, renovation, and ground‑up construction projects throughout the United States, is seeking an energetic, relationship‑driven Business Development Manager to join our Sarasota headquarters. This is not a marketing, proposal coordinator, or administrative position. We are seeking a true hunter —someone who enjoys building relationships, generating opportunities, securing invitations to bid, and helping drive company growth. The successful candidate will be responsible for identifying, pursuing, and developing commercial construction opportunities while building long‑term relationships with retailers, developers, commercial real estate professionals, architects, engineers, and property owners. This is a full‑time, in‑office position based in Sarasota, Florida. Remote or hybrid arrangements are not available. About R.E. Crawford Construction R.E. Crawford Construction is a national commercial general contractor with projects throughout the United States. Our portfolio includes retail, restaurant, hospitality, tenant improvement, renovation, and ground‑up construction for nationally recognized brands and commercial clients. We pride ourselves on developing long‑term client relationships and delivering projects with a hands‑on, client‑focused approach. Primary Responsibilities Business Development & Lead Generation Identify and develop new commercial construction opportunities throughout the United States. Generate qualified leads through networking, cold calling, client visits, industry events, market research, and relationship development. Develop strategic relationships with retailers, developers, commercial real estate firms, architects, engineers, property managers, and owners. Research retailer expansion plans, commercial developments, and upcoming construction projects. Build and maintain a strong sales pipeline. Track opportunities from initial contact through project award. Secure invitations to bid and negotiate opportunities for future work. Conduct client meetings, site visits, industry networking events, and business development presentations. Maintain client relationships before, during, and after project completion. Opportunity Management Utilize CRM systems, construction databases, lead‑generation platforms, AI tools, and industry resources to identify and track opportunities. Coordinate with estimating, operations, and executive leadership to develop pursuit strategies. Monitor bid results and market activity to refine business development efforts. Maintain accurate records of all client interactions, opportunities, and follow-up activities. Strategic Growth Analyze market trends and emerging opportunities. Recommend strategies for expanding into new markets and strengthening existing client relationships. Assist ownership and senior leadership in developing long‑term growth initiatives. Qualifications Required Minimum 3 years of experience in business development, sales, estimating, or project management. Strong communication, networking, and relationship‑building skills. Comfortable with cold calling, prospecting, networking events, and client visits. Strong organizational and follow‑up skills. Ability to manage multiple opportunities and priorities simultaneously. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and CRM software. Self‑motivated with a strong work ethic and positive attitude. Preferred Retail, restaurant, tenant improvement, or ground‑up construction experience. Existing relationships within the commercial construction industry. Experience with CRM platforms and construction lead‑generation databases. Experience utilizing AI and technology‑based business development tools. Who This Position Is NOT For This position is not a social media marketing role, proposal coordinator position, inside sales role, or administrative support position. We are looking for someone who enjoys: Meeting people. Building relationships. Making calls. Developing opportunities. Following up consistently. Growing business through persistence and professionalism. Competitive base salary: $75,000 – $110,000+ depending on experience. Performance‑based bonus opportunities. Health insurance. Paid time off. Direct access to company ownership and executive leadership. Opportunity to play a significant role in the growth of a national commercial construction firm. Application Question (Required) Please provide examples of commercial construction opportunities, client relationships, or accounts that you personally developed which resulted in awarded work, negotiated contracts, invitations to bid, or long‑term client relationships. Include approximate project values and your role in securing the opportunity. Sarasota, Florida National Commercial General Contractor Apply today if you're ready to help grow a nationally recognized commercial construction company and build long‑term relationships that drive results. #J-18808-Ljbffr