Area Manager - Vertical Transportation

About the role

Lerch Bates is seeking an experienced Area Manager to lead our Vertical Transportation consulting practice within an assigned region. This role combines technical consulting, business development, operational leadership, and people management to drive exceptional client service and business growth.

Business Development & Client Leadership

• Develop and execute regional business development strategies to grow consulting services across all Lerch Bates service lines
• Build and maintain strong relationships with building owners, architects, developers, contractors, property managers, and industry partners
• Generate new business through networking, client meetings, industry conferences, presentations, lunch-and-learns, and thought leadership
• Identify opportunities to expand services within existing client relationships
• Support proposal development, contract negotiations, and project planning

Project Consulting & Delivery

• Participate in vertical transportation consulting projects including equipment assessments, modernization projects, maintenance audits, design consulting, construction administration, and technical reviews
• Aid project teams to ensure quality, client satisfaction, timely delivery, and effective project execution
• Assist with project planning, scheduling, budgeting, invoicing, and resource coordination
• Review project performance and provide operational support to consultants throughout project lifecycles
• Prepare and review project reports, status updates, billing information, change orders, and project documentation

Operations Leadership

• Lead daily operations for the assigned service area while promoting operational consistency and continuous improvement
• Monitor regional revenue, expenses, project performance, and financial objectives
• Participate in forecasting, budgeting, and operational planning
• Collaborate with leadership and support teams to achieve business goals and improve operational efficiency

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, coach, mentor, and develop consultants and technical staff
• Provide performance feedback, training, and career development opportunities
• Foster a collaborative, customer-focused culture that reflects Lerch Bates' core values
• Promote workplace safety and ensure compliance with company policies and industry standards

What You’ll Bring

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, Business, or a related field preferred
• 5+ years of experience in the vertical transportation, elevator consulting, construction, engineering, or related industry
• Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred
• Strong knowledge of elevators, escalators, moving walks, modernization programs, maintenance audits, inspections, and vertical transportation systems
• Working knowledge of applicable industry codes, standards, and safety requirements
• Demonstrated success in business development, client relationship management, and project delivery
• Strong project management, organizational, and financial management skills
• Excellent leadership, coaching, and team development abilities
• Strong written and verbal communication, presentation, and negotiation skills
• Ability to analyze complex problems and develop practical solutions
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced consulting environment
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications; experience with CAD or drawing review software preferred

Why Work with Lerch Bates?

• Competitive compensation
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off (starting at 17 days annually)
• 9 paid holidays
• 401(k) with employer match
• Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP)
• Paid parental leave
• Professional development and tuition reimbursement
• Performance-based incentives and bonuses
• Employee assistance and wellness programs