Director of Preconstruction

A bit about us:

Our client is a professional services firm providing construction and development services throughout the Midwest. The organization fosters a collaborative work environment focused on exceeding client expectations while offering long-term career opportunities for its professionals.

With multiple offices across the region, the firm has successfully delivered a wide range of projects nationwide. It is recognized as a market leader in its core markets, including new construction as well as complex additions and renovations.

The organization's mission goes beyond building projects-it is committed to developing people, relationships, and communities.

Why join us?

When team members are asked what they value most about working here, the most common response is the culture. Employees describe the environment as highly flexible and supportive. Teams collaborate closely, enjoy their work, and are empowered to take ownership of how they deliver results. Professional growth is strongly encouraged through robust development tools and clear career pathways. The company offers an environment rich with opportunity.

Job Details

As Director of Preconstruction, you will help us reach our strategic growth goals by providing strategic leadership, administrative oversight and operational excellence for the preconstruction department. This role is responsible for ensuring the preconstruction team delivers high-quality services that align with company objectives, client expectations and long-term business strategies.

This position focuses on leadership, departmental strategy, process improvement and cross-functional collaboration, not on performing day to day estimating or tactical project tasks. The Director oversees and develops a diverse team of preconstruction professionals, ensuring efficient resource utilization, consistent processes and exceptional client service across all pursuits.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership & Departmental Administration

Provide strategic direction and oversight for all preconstruction activities.
Develop and implement departmental goals, key performance metrics and operational strategies aligned with corporate objectives.
Lead, mentor and develop Preconstruction Executives, Managers and Engineers to build a high-performing, collaborative team culture.
Oversee departmental staffing, resource allocation and workload balancing across multiple concurrent pursuits.
Establish, refine and enforce standardized processes, templates and best practices to ensure consistency and quality across all offices.
Report performance metrics, workload trends and staffing forecasts to the Vice President of Preconstruction and Executive Leadership.
Business Development & Client Relations

Partner with Business Development and Marketing teams to evaluate and pursue new project opportunities.
Participate in high-level project pursuits, interviews, and presentations, providing strategic insight into project positioning and client expectations.
Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, architects, engineers and trade partners to support business development and future work acquisition.
Provide leadership and support to the preconstruction team during project pursuits to ensure proposals and deliverables align with client and company goals.
Process, Data and Workflow Improvement

Develop and manage departmental systems for cost data collection, tracking, and analysis to improve forecasting and data integrity.
Lead initiatives to modernize and streamline preconstruction workflows, leveraging technology and analytics to enhance decision-making and efficiency.
Evaluate and maintain preconstruction tools, databases, and software systems, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and accessibility.
Champion process innovation, standardization, and continuous improvement across offices.
Team Development & Mentorship

Recruit, train, and retain top preconstruction talent; build a culture of growth, accountability, and excellence.
Conduct regular performance reviews, establish clear development paths, and implement individualized coaching plans.
Organize team meetings, training sessions, and one-on-one check-ins to promote communication and professional development.
Recognize and celebrate team and individual achievements to maintain engagement and morale.
Cross-Functional Collaboration

Coordinate with Operations, Real Estate Development, Business Development, Marketing, IT and Executive Leadership to ensure cross-departmental alignment.
Facilitate seamless handoffs between preconstruction and operations to maintain continuity and project success.
Coordinate resources and best practices between regional offices to ensure consistent quality and collaboration across the company.
Act as a conduit between preconstruction and field operations to align project goals, budgets and schedules.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field required.
12-15 years of progressive experience in preconstruction, estimating, or related roles, including a minimum of 5 years in leadership.
Demonstrated success leading multi-disciplinary preconstruction teams and managing multiple concurrent pursuits.
Strong understanding of preconstruction principles, budgeting, scheduling, and client engagement at a strategic level.
Proven ability to lead through influence, motivate diverse teams, and foster collaboration across departments and offices.
Advanced communication, negotiation, and presentation skills, with the ability to interface effectively with clients and executives.
Proficiency with preconstruction software, data analytics tools, and workflow management systems preferred.

Key Attributes

Visionary leader who builds teams and drives organizational growth.
Strategic thinker capable of balancing innovation with operational rigor.
Skilled communicator and collaborator across all organizational levels.
Motivated mentor dedicated to developing talent and advancing careers.
High integrity, professionalism, and commitment to company values.

Approximately 10% regional and national travel required for client meetings, interoffice coordination and key project pursuits.

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