Business Development Director

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

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