Job Description
The Director of Business Development will play a pivotal role in identifying and pursuing new private-sector land development opportunities, focusing on projects starting at $2M. This position requires independently winning work and maintaining a robust pipeline of qualified leads. The role is centered around revenue generation, proposal preparation, and client relationship management, with a strategic focus on high-value asset types and market insights.
ResponsibilitiesIdentify and pursue new private-sector land development opportunities, focusing on projects starting at $2M.Build and maintain a robust pipeline of qualified leads and opportunities.Independently win work and bring in a book of business.Meet or exceed annual revenue targets: Entry-level BD: $2M+, Senior BD: $20M+.Accurately forecast revenue and contribute to budgeting efforts.Lead the preparation of proposals, RFP responses, and presentations.Collaborate with technical staff, marketing, and proposal teams to develop winning strategies.Negotiate contracts and close deals with clients.Serve as a trusted advisor to key clients and agency partners across California.Build deep, long-term relationships with agencies, municipalities, and private developers.Represent the firm at industry events, conferences, and client meetings.Contribute to the strategic growth of the land development business unit.Focus on high-value asset types such as master-planned communities (MPCs), mixed-use, commercial, and TOD projects.Stay informed on market trends, regulatory changes, and competitive landscape.Coordinate across distributed teams without direct management responsibilities.Influence internal stakeholders and support cross-functional collaboration.Work closely with the Land Development Market Leader to align on goals and strategy.Essential SkillsProven ability to independently win high-value private land development projects ($2M–$20M+ annually).Must bring an existing book of business.Deep understanding of Southern California’s private land development market and regulatory environment.Experience with residential, mixed-use, commercial, and TOD projects.Build and maintain long-term relationships with agencies, municipalities, and private clients.Use CRM tools to manage pipeline and client interactions.Influence and coordinate across distributed teams without formal management responsibilities.Additional Skills & QualificationsStrategic thinker with a technical background (PE, AICP, or civil engineering preferred).Strong communicator and relationship builder.Entrepreneurial mindset with a track record of revenue generation.Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator) is a plus.Ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments and regulatory frameworks.10–15+ years in business development, with 5+ years in land development.Demonstrated success in winning and managing large-scale private-sector projects.Experience in California-specific land use and environmental regulations.Work Environment
Enjoy a respectful work environment with a healthy work-life balance, offering flexibility such as a 9/80 schedule (every other Friday off). The firm fosters a culture of integrity, respect, transparency, and collaboration, empowering professionals to innovate and lead with minimal micromanagement. Employees are encouraged to contribute to meaningful projects in transportation, land development, energy, and water resources, shaping communities and protecting ecosystems. Career development opportunities abound across various offices and disciplines, supported by mentorship and diverse career paths.
Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $250000.00 - $300000.00/yr.