GRAEF, a leading U.S. consulting firm, has been providing exceptional careers and quality engineering, planning and design services to our clients since 1961. We recognize that the best workplaces are filled with technically excellent, innovative, creative, and highly motivated people and are proud to be named a 2023 Top Workplace . GRAEF is more than just a business. We are a committed employer and community member. We invest in our employees as we do our clients, providing a challenging and rewarding environment where you can grow both personally and professionally. GRAEF values exciting work and lasting relationships; we embody values that speak to loyalty, service, quality and integrity; and we strive to grow with these ideas leading the way. We’re looking for people who agree that in addition to technical excellence, it’s all about relationships! We have an exceptional opportunity for a results-oriented Business Development focused professional to join either of our Chicago offices, who will be responsible for leading and developing the business within our aviation market. The Aviation Business Development Leader will have a technical background and be responsible to develop a strategic business plan, develop new opportunities and clients while maintaining existing relationships. In order to be considered for this Business Development position, candidates must possess the following basic qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Engineering (preferred) or Architecture, with a minimum of 8 years of experience developing and managing a technical market or business development, along with selling technical Aviation Planning or Design Services to Airports, Airlines and/or Aviation related companies either from an airside or landside perspective.
Success in business development planning including developing strategic business plans, marketing activities, client development, presentation experience and proposal development.
Technical project management experience is desired.
Professional registration as a PE or other technical profession.
Proven leadership experience is highly preferred.
Responsibilities include:
Plan and lead the business development initiatives for GRAEF’s Aviation market sector.
Develop pipeline of business opportunities throughout the U.S.
Project oversight including setting priorities and developing objectives, project financial management, as well as hands-on involvement in the design process. The ability to serve as a technical resource for a multi-disciplined team.
Job duties include project engineering and management. Client management, including abilities to make fluent presentations, contract negotiations and client development activities. Good communication skills and a proven track record in successfully interacting with clients and collaborating with internal team members is necessary.
Must be able to travel a minimum of 15%, to work with teams in each of GRAEF’s offices and meet with clients.
Project delivery dependent on experience, licensing and expertise.
Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced multi-discipline environment.
Be adaptable in an ever-changing industry.
Why GRAEF? We are proud to offer a complete benefit package to include:
Training, Mentorship, and Leadership Development programs
A team atmosphere dedicated to open communications and collaboration
Flexible Hours/Hybrid Schedule
Embed yourself in the community by participating in numerous outside activities that GRAEF endorses and supports
Parental Leave
Paid Time Off
Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance
Life Insurance
Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
Flexible Spending Plans
Retirement Savings Plan
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
Tuition Reimbursement
Casual Dress
An Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action Employer - Disabled/Vets