Senior Director, Business Development

Company Description

CRB is a leading provider of sustainable engineering, architecture, construction and consulting solutions to the global life sciences and food and beverage industries. Our more than 1,600 employees provide best-in-class solutions that drive success and positive change for our clients, our people and our communities. CRB is a privately held company with a rich history of serving clients throughout the world, consistently striving for the highest standard of technical knowledge, creativity and execution.

Job Description

The Senior Director, Business Development is a senior leadership role responsible for developing and executing high-value business development strategies, securing large-scale project opportunities, and expanding CRB’s market influence. Reporting directly to the Vice President of Business Development, this position will be responsible for delivering sustainable, profitable growth in a specific region or industry vertical.

This individual will serve as a strategic business leader, collaborating with executive leadership, operations, and marketing to implement consistent business development processes, enhance client relationships, and drive market penetration. This role requires a proven track record of closing high-value deals ($100M+ EPC or Design-Build preferred), expertise in strategic sales, and the ability to influence executive decision-makers.

The Senior Director is expected to operate with a high level of autonomy, leading and mentoring business development teams while directly engaging in key sales opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

· Develop, implement, and oversee high-impact business development strategies aligned with corporate, regional, and industry-specific growth goals.

· Identify and pursue large-scale, high-value business opportunities, securing long-term contracts and partnerships that drive sustained revenue growth.

· Lead strategic account planning, sales pipeline development, and forecasting, ensuring alignment with company financial targets.

· Build and maintain executive-level client relationships, positioning CRB as a trusted advisor and go-to service provider.

· Drive go-to-market strategy execution, integrating market research, competitive analysis, and innovative sales approaches.

· Develop and manage regional and industry-specific sales plans, tracking progress and adjusting strategies based on market conditions.

· Directly lead and coordinate high-stakes negotiations, proposal development, and contract finalization for major project pursuits.

· Could lead and manage regional business development teams, including setting and managing KPIs, mentoring team members, and fostering a high-performance sales culture.

· Evaluate industry trends, competitive landscape, and market positioning to inform business development strategy and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

· Support CRB’s thought leadership efforts, including participation in industry panels, conference speaking engagements, and content development.

· Partner with marketing, operations, and executive leadership to enhance CRB’s brand visibility and client engagement strategy.

· Oversee the seller-doer program, ensuring technical and operational leaders are effectively engaged in business development efforts.

· Maintain and update CRM tools (Microsoft Dynamics, Salesforce) to track business development activities, client interactions, and sales opportunities.

Qualifications

· Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction, Marketing, or Business Administration (preferred).

· 10+ years of experience in business development or sales leadership, preferably in the life sciences, pharmaceutical, food & beverage, or science & technology sectors.

· Proven track record of closing high-value ($100M+) EPC or Design-Build projects.

· Deep understanding of complex sales processes, account management, and business development best practices.

· Strong executive presence and relationship management skills, with the ability to influence and engage C-suite decision-makers.

· Experience managing sales teams and business development professionals in a matrixed environment.

· Expertise in CRM tools (Microsoft Dynamics, Salesforce) and sales performance tracking.

· Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic growth initiatives, expanding company market share and client base.

· Strong industry network, with active engagement in professional societies, industry associations, and executive roundtables.

· Exceptional negotiation, presentation, and communication skills, with a focus on complex deal structuring.

Additional Skills

· Recognized industry thought leader, with a strong reputation and influence in the life sciences and/or food