Pursuits Director

We design places where people love to be together.

Populous is a global design firm that began with a singular focus: to draw people together around the things they love, through experiences that capture all the senses, amplifying the atmosphere of excitement and pure joy shared in human moments.

We’ve designed and delivered some of the world's most memorable civic, sports and entertainment buildings, from iconic stadia to ground-breaking live music venues. Populous is where architects and designers of all kinds create moments bigger than ourselves. We offer the best of both worlds: the resources and impact of the design giants and the tightly knit atmosphere and growth opportunities of smaller firms.

What We Offer

Professional & Personal Development Programs + Summer Hours + Hybrid Schedule + On-Site Gym + Paid Architect Licensure & Certifications Exams + Wedding Pay + Charitable Match Program + Market Leading Wellness Health and Welfare Benefits.

Who We Are Looking For

We are looking for a Pursuits Director to spearhead Americas business development initiatives, oversee the Pursuits Team operations, and develop strategies and campaigns that support broader business goals.

Our preferred candidate has excellent leadership skills and 10+ years of management and business development strategy experience in high-growth organizations within the AEC industry. They have an interest in working in a dynamic global design environment with a diverse range of public assembly building types, including sports venues, convention centers, and airports.

What Your Day Could Consist Of

• Providing strategic counsel and support to the Head of New Business.
• Managing and streamlining pursuits efforts and complimentary marketing strategies that align with and achieve Populous’ objectives.
• Collaborating with the marketing leadership team to refine and implement strategic initiatives and marketing and/or promotional campaigns.
• Leading, managing, and coaching the Pursuits Team and supporting all pursuit activities across regional markets.
• Overseeing and mentoring Pursuits Team staff, guiding the creation of business development and pursuits plans with detailed programs, timelines, and metrics, ensuring business development materials adhere to brand and that deliverables meet high-quality standards.
• Overseeing proposal development and strategy.
• Identifying revenue opportunities advising on budgeting/market spending.
• Ensuring adherence to operational policies and tools, fostering a consistent approach to project management and communication.
• Preparing and presenting data-driven reports that support leadership decision-making and business development strategy.
• Coordinating the annual presentation training program for new business pursuit teams, partnering with an outside consultant to develop content, schedule sessions, manage logistics, and ensure training aligns with firm brand guidelines.

Requirements For Success

• Exceptional leadership and team management skills with a strong focus on mentorship and development, providing clear direction, constructive feedback and a team culture of continuous learning within a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams and levels.
• Creative, consultative and solution oriented.
• Positive attitude, resourceful nature, and excellent problem-solving capabilities.
• Proven ability to analyze data, generate insights, and create actionable strategies based on key performance indicators and business intelligence tools.
• Proficiency with project management software such as Asana or other collaboration tools to track performance metrics, project deadlines, and team goals.
• Experience leading business development/pursuit strategy and in responding to RFP/RFQs with a focus on delivering high-quality and compelling proposals.
• Excellent communication skills: verbal, technical writing, and creative writing as well as proofreading and editing, with experience preparing and presenting strategic reports to senior leadership.
• Demonstrated ability to lead meetings and manage agendas, ensuring alignment between departmental and leadership objectives.
• Comfortable working in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, with the ability to prioritize and successfully manage multiple projects.

Essential Qualifications

• An accredited bachelor’s degree in public relations, marketing, business administration, communications, or a related field.
• 10+ years of proven experience in management and business development strategy; demonstrated success in executing brand strategies that drive business growth.
• 5+ years of experience leading a team.
• Experience in AEC industry and in high-growth organizations is preferred.
• Travel will be required.

Populous offers a competitive salary and bonus packages. We strive to offer our staff the best benefits package in the industry, at the lowest cost to employees, including medical, dental and vision coverage, 401k, FSA/HSA, paid time off and continuing education benefits. Populous is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.