Cities Studio Leader

About the role

The Chicago office of SmithGroup is seeking a Cities Studio Leader to join our dynamic team. This role is pivotal in driving growth and market share, leading projects from concept to completion, and fostering a collaborative and innovative environment.

Responsibilities

• Grow practice market share and net revenue in conjunction with regional, local, and national teams.
• Provide leadership and management necessary for the development and growth of the studio consistent with SmithGroup’s strategic themes.
• Maintain relationships with past clients and develop relationships with current/new clients.
• Work with the Regional Director and the Market Director to ensure marketing & sales budgets, revenue, and project performance targets are achieved.
• Lead projects through all phases, including initial client contacts, marketing pursuits, sales efforts, contract negotiations, project kick-off, feasibility studies, strategic planning, master planning, programming, conceptual studies, schematic, design, design development, construction documentation, bidding and award, construction administration, move-in, follow-up, and on-going client relationship maintenance.
• Participate in recruiting, coaching, and career development of staff.
• Take responsibility and ownership to meet standards, budgets, schedules, and deadlines.

Requirements

• A professional degree in Urban Design, Urban Planning, Real Estate, Architecture, Engineering, Landscape Architecture, or equivalent combination of related experience and/or training.
• 15+ years related experience preferred and/or training (or equivalent combination of education and experience) in the AE Industry.
• Registration or licensure in relevant field; LEED AP preferred.
• Proven leadership and demonstrated track record of winning work and growing market share in planning and construction projects.
• Demonstrated effectiveness and a strong commitment to working in a team setting, delivering high client satisfaction and technical competence.
• Strong leadership skills in the areas of business development; professional and civic involvement.
• Strong business acumen and critical thinking skills in the pursuit of the work.
• The ability to take responsibility and ownership to meet standards, budgets, schedules, and deadlines.

Qualifications

• A high degree of self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• The ability to travel 25-35%.

Skills

• Ability to take initiative and lead projects from concept to completion.
• Strong project management and leadership skills.
• Experience in urban planning, real estate, architecture, engineering, landscape architecture, or a related field.
• Knowledge of sustainable design principles and practices.
• Experience in public engagement and community outreach.

Benefits

• Flexible scheduling
• Hybrid work environment
• 3 weeks of PTO within your first year of employment with the option of purchasing additional time off
• 8 paid federal holidays
• Plus 15 extra Fridays off!
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Wellbeing resources
• Paid parental leave
• A flex spending account and voluntary insurance options
• 401(k) program with employer matching
• Tuition reimbursement program
• One-on-one career coaching and professional development opportunities

Pay

The anticipated salary range for this position is $152,000 to $179,000 annually.

Schedule

Flexible scheduling is offered.