Sector Leader - Higher Education

HED is looking to add an experienced Sector Leader to join our talented team. The Sector Leader – Higher Education role at HED represents a dynamic bridge between technical design leadership and market-facing business development. As a Principal‑in‑Charge (PIC), you will lead complex projects while simultaneously expanding HED's influence within the Higher Education sector. About HED We are a team that is full of ideas, experience, creativity, passionate opinions, insatiable curiosity, uncompromising integrity, commitment, and skill. Our culture is about aspiration, embracing change and challenges, listening to (and learning from) each other, encouraging continual learning, and inspiring collective growth. As an inclusive, integrated architecture and engineering practice, we value the diversity of perspectives, experiences, abilities, and expertise that advance both the work we do and the world we share. Position Summary This role combines strategic design direction, client advocacy, thought leadership, and mentorship to elevate both project outcomes and client partnerships. As a Seller‑Doer in development, you will be approximately 50% chargeable, allowing space to grow sector visibility and strengthen client relationships through meaningful, wisdom‑driven engagement. Essential Functions Technical/Design Leadership Serve as Principal‑in‑Charge (PIC) on projects, ensuring design excellence, technical rigor, and successful delivery across all phases. Lead project delivery teams by setting clear performance expectations, fostering a culture of quality, creativity, and accountability. Promote integration of DEI, sustainability, and quality excellence within both project work and client engagement. Higher Education Sector Development and Business Growth Lead Higher Education sector‑specific pursuits with increased independence and strategic foresight, aligning project opportunities with firm capabilities. Build and nurture long‑term client relationships based on trust, collaboration, and shared values across regional markets. Collaborate closely with sector peers and marketing teams to shape compelling messaging and strategic campaign efforts. Identify emerging Higher Education sector trends, innovation opportunities, and client challenges to help shape the future direction of HED's market approach. Thought Leadership and Mentorship Author, contribute to, and present Higher Education sector insights through blogs, industry panels, conferences, and other thought leadership platforms. Guide and mentor mid‑level professionals in technical design development, project leadership, and sector positioning. Chargeability and Engagement Balance approximately 50% chargeable work with 50% business development, external engagement, and sector leadership activities. Requirements Professional degree in Architecture, Engineering, or related field. Active professional licensure strongly preferred. Minimum 12 years of Higher Education industry experience with a proven record in technical project leadership and client development. Demonstrated expertise in Higher Education markets, with growing influence among clients and peers. Proficiency with MS Teams, Bluebeam, Adobe Creative Suite, and CRM platforms. Physical Requirements Prolonged periods of computer use and active participation in collaborative sessions. Frequent engagement in verbal, virtual, and written communication. Regular travel for client meetings, project reviews, and industry events. Work Environment We embrace a hybrid model that promotes both autonomy and collaboration, including the freedom to work from home, with regular in‑office days to connect with teammates and build culture. The office is a professional, open‑space environment for collaborative and independent work. Other Duties Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. #J-18808-Ljbffr HED