Business Development Director

Company Overview
Business Development Director Job Description
Salas O'Brien is a leading engineering and consulting firm committed to delivering innovative solutions that drive client success. Our Cincinnati division specializes in providing comprehensive engineering/architectural, automation, and construction services across diverse industry sectors. We pride ourselves on our collaborative approach, technical expertise, and commitment to sustainable growth.
Division Focus
The Salas O'Brien Cincinnati division serves clients across various markets, including Agricultural, Pharmaceutical, Food and Beverage, Chemical, Consumer Products, and Metals. Our multidisciplinary team delivers integrated solutions that address complex challenges while maintaining the highest standards of quality and innovation.
Position Summary
We are seeking a dynamic Business Development Leader to drive divisional growth while maintaining healthy diversification across all markets we serve. The primary goal of this role is to implement strategic business development initiatives that mitigate risks associated with market fluctuations and ensure steady, sustainable growth. This position requires a results-driven professional who can balance strategic vision with tactical execution while leading and developing our business development team.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Vision

• Support and champion the overall vision of Business Development and the Seller-Doer Balanced Approach
• Develop and implement a comprehensive Business Development program that aligns with company vision in collaboration with Operations teams
• Maintain strategic oversight of market diversification to ensure balanced growth across all served sectors

Business Growth & Market Development

• Drive business growth by identifying new opportunities and conducting comprehensive market research
• Analyze market trends and pinpoint areas for improvement and expansion
• Develop and execute targeted strategies to penetrate new markets and expand existing market presence
• Monitor competitive landscape and maintain strong understanding of business positioning

Client Relationship Management

• Manage and nurture existing client relationships to identify expansion opportunities
• Develop strategies for offering new services, cross-selling, and exploring new client sites
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key decision-makers across target markets
• Ensure client satisfaction and retention through proactive relationship management

Contract Negotiation & Deal Management

• Facilitate negotiations for client contracts, ensuring mutually beneficial agreements
• Structure deals that drive business forward while maintaining profitability
• Collaborate with legal and project teams to ensure contract terms align with operational capabilities
• Monitor contract performance and identify opportunities for renewal and expansion

Team Leadership & Development

• Provide managerial oversight and leadership to Business Development team members
• Develop and implement personal growth plans for BD team members that align with company goals
• Conduct regular performance reviews and provide ongoing coaching and mentorship
• Foster a collaborative team environment that encourages innovation and professional development

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate closely with Business Development and Operational teams to ensure growth targets and profit goals are met
• Coordinate with project delivery teams to ensure seamless transition from sales to execution
• Work with marketing teams to develop presentations
• Partner with senior leadership to align Business Development activities with overall company strategy

Required Qualifications
Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Engineering or related field
• Minimum 10-15 years of progressive business development experience, preferably in engineering, construction, or related technical services
• Proven track record of achieving growth targets and managing complex B2B relationships
• Experience in at least two of the following markets: Agricultural, Pharmaceutical, Food and Beverage, Chemical, Consumer Products, or Metals

Technical & Professional Skills

• Strong understanding of engineering/architectural and construction services
• Demonstrated experience in contract negotiation and deal structuring
• Excellent analytical skills with ability to conduct market research and trend analysis
• Proficiency in CRM systems and business development tools
• Strong financial acumen and understanding of project profitability metrics

Leadership & Management

• Proven people management experience with ability to lead and develop teams
• Experience in performance management and professional development planning
• Strong coaching and mentoring capabilities
• Ability to inspire and motivate team members toward common goals

Core Competencies

• Strategic thinking and planning
• Relationship building and management
• Market analysis and competitive intelligence
• Team leadership and development
• Contract negotiation and deal structuring
• Cross-functional collaboration
• Results-oriented mindset
• Adaptability and resilience
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Problem-solving and decision-making abilities

Performance Metrics

• Achievement of annual growth targets
• Market diversification balance across served sectors
• Client retention and expansion rates
• New business acquisition metrics
• Team development and performance indicators
• Contract win rates and profitability margins
• Strategic initiative implementation success

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Seller-Doer business models in professional services
• Established network of contacts within target industries
• Experience with proposal development and presentation processes
• Previous experience in multi-market business development role

Reporting Structure
This position reports to the Managing Principal and works closely with Business Unit Development leadership. The role includes direct management of Business Development team members and regular collaboration with Operations leadership.
Travel Requirements
This position requires regular travel to client sites, industry conferences, and company meetings. Travel is estimated at 25-50% of time.