Positon Overview
We are seeking a Business Development Director to help shape the trajectory of a New York City–based, design-led architecture studio with global ambitions. This role sits at the intersection of strategy, relationships, and storytelling—driving thoughtful growth while reinforcing the firm’s distinct voice.
The ideal candidate brings a nuanced understanding of the design ecosystem, a cultivated network, and an instinct for identifying opportunities that align with both ambition and ethos. This is a highly collaborative, outward-facing role working closely with the founder to build a practice defined as much by its ideas as by its work.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Growth & Positioning
- Define and advance a business development strategy that reflects the studio’s design values and long-term vision
- Identify and pursue opportunities across luxury residential, cultural, educational, and wellness-driven environments
- Expand the studio’s presence in key global markets through targeted, relationship-driven efforts
Client Development & Engagement
- Cultivate meaningful relationships with developers, collectors, cultural leaders, institutional partners, and forward-thinking brands
- Serve as a primary ambassador for the studio in New York City and internationally
- Build trust through a deep understanding of client ambitions, translating them into aligned opportunities
Pursuits & Narratives
- Lead the pursuit process from initial connection through award, shaping a clear and compelling narrative for each opportunity
- Guide the development of proposals, presentations, and interviews with a strong editorial sensibility
- Work in close dialogue with design leadership to ensure continuity between concept, communication, and client vision
Pipeline & Revenue Stewardship
- Build and maintain a focused, high-quality pipeline of global opportunities
- Secure projects that reinforce the studio’s positioning and contribute to sustainable growth
- Support fee development, negotiations, and strategic deal‑making
Brand Building & Thought Leadership
- Shape and elevate the studio’s presence through curated partnerships, events, and cultural engagement
- Identify and pursue awards, publications, and collaborations that extend the studio’s reach and relevance
- Oversee the studio’s digital presence—including social media and website—as an extension of its design voice, ensuring clarity, consistency, and visual rigor
- Direct content development across platforms, from project storytelling to editorial features, aligning communications with business development priorities
- Collaborate with internal and external partners to evolve the studio’s website as a dynamic portfolio and strategic tool, including content strategy and performance optimization
- Contribute market insight to inform positioning, messaging, and long‑term direction
Studio Collaboration & Growth
- Partner closely with founder to shape both immediate opportunities and long‑term direction
- Establish and refine business development processes appropriate to a growing, design‑driven practice
- Foster a culture of engagement, encouraging the broader team to participate in storytelling and relationship‑building
Qualifications
- 8–15+ years of experience in business development within architecture, design, real estate, or related fields
- Demonstrated success securing complex, design‑driven projects—particularly in luxury residential, cultural, or institutional sectors
- Strong network in New York City with international reach
- Fluency in the architecture and design process, with an appreciation for craft, narrative, and detail
- Experience in an entrepreneurial or early‑stage environment is highly valued
Key Attributes
- Strategic yet intuitive, with a strong editorial eye
- Discerning in opportunity selection and relationship building
- Articulate and persuasive, with a refined approach to communication
- Collaborative, adaptable, and comfortable operating within an evolving structure
- Motivated by building something enduring and distinct
Work Environment
- New York City–based studio with a global outlook
- Flexible, hybrid working style with regular travel
- Intimate, ambitious, and highly collaborative team environment