Client Leader- Higher Education

About the role

The Dallas office of SmithGroup is seeking a Client Leader-Higher Education to join our dynamic team. This role involves assisting the Studio Leader in growing market share and net revenue, developing and growing the studio, maintaining client relationships, providing leadership, and participating in coaching and career development.

Responsibilities

• Assist Studio Leader in growing market share and net revenue.
• Assist Studio Leader in the development and growth of the studio consistent with SmithGroup’s strategic themes of growing the firm, building expertise, and designing holistically.
• Maintain relationships with past clients and develop relationships with current/new clients.
• Work closely with Business Development, Marketing, and studio leadership to effectively market and grow our services.
• Provide leadership and be actively involved in projects through all phases, from initial client contacts through 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.
• Be accountable for the financial performance of your own projects.
• Participate in coaching and career development of staff.
• Be involved in professional, civic, or community activities that support the goals and core values of SmithGroup – passion, sustainability, equity, community, curiosity, and integrity.

Requirements

• A professional degree in Architecture, Interior Design, Engineering, or equivalent combination of related experience and/or training in the AE Industry.
• 12+ years related experience preferred and/or training (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Registration or licensure in relevant field; LEED AP preferred.
• Project experience that includes a range of building/program types, complexity, and scale.
• Demonstrated track record of winning work, as part of an overall team, in planning, renovation, or new construction projects.
• Demonstrated effectiveness in working in a team setting, delivering high levels of client satisfaction and technical competence.
• 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.
• A high degree of self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• The ability to travel 10-15%.

Qualifications

• Passionate problem solver with a desire to elevate design, push boundaries, and create a more resilient future.
• Experience in planning, renovation, or new construction projects.
• Ability to work collaboratively and effectively manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong understanding of sustainable design principles and practices.

Skills

• Project management skills.
• Client relationship management.
• Strategic planning and execution.
• Technical competence in architectural design and engineering.
• Business acumen and financial management.

Benefits

At SmithGroup, we offer:

• Flexible scheduling.
• A 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 $123,000 to $145,000 annually.

Schedule

We offer a flexible schedule and a hybrid work environment.