Senior Director, Business Development (Emeryville)

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

1. Develop, implement, and oversee high-impact business development strategies aligned with corporate, regional, and industry-specific growth goals.
2. Identify and pursue large-scale, high-value business opportunities, securing long-term contracts and partnerships that drive sustained revenue growth.
3. Lead strategic account planning, sales pipeline development, and forecasting, ensuring alignment with company financial targets.
4. Build and maintain executive-level client relationships, positioning CRB as a trusted advisor and go-to service provider.
5. Drive go-to-market strategy execution, integrating market research, competitive analysis, and innovative sales approaches.
6. Develop and manage regional and industry-specific sales plans, tracking progress and adjusting strategies based on market conditions.
7. Directly lead and coordinate high-stakes negotiations, proposal development, and contract finalization for major project pursuits.
8. Could lead and manage regional business development teams, including setting and managing KPIs, mentoring team members, and fostering a high-performance sales culture.
9. Evaluate industry trends, competitive landscape, and market positioning to inform business development strategy and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
10. Support CRB’s thought leadership efforts, including participation in industry panels, conference speaking engagements, and content development.
11. Partner with marketing, operations, and executive leadership to enhance CRB’s brand visibility and client engagement strategy.
12. Oversee the seller-doer program, ensuring technical and operational leaders are effectively engaged in business development efforts.
13. Maintain and update CRM tools (Microsoft Dynamics, Salesforce) to track business development activities, client interactions, and sales opportunities.

Qualifications

1. Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction, Marketing, or Business Administration (preferred).
2. 10+ years of experience in business development or sales leadership, preferably in the life sciences, pharmaceutical, food & beverage, or science & technology sectors.
3. Proven track record of closing high-value ($100M+) EPC or Design-Build projects.
4. Deep understanding of complex sales processes, account management, and business development best practices.
5. Strong executive presence and relationship management skills, with the ability to influence and engage C-suite decision-makers.
6. Experience managing sales teams and business development professionals in a matrixed environment.
7. Expertise in CRM tools (Microsoft Dynamics, Salesforce) and sales performance tracking.
8. Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic growth initiatives, expanding company market share and client base.
9. Strong industry network, with active engagement in professional societies, industry associations, and executive roundtables.
10. Exceptional negotiation, presentation, and communication skills, with a focus on complex deal structuring.

Additional Skills

1. Recognized industry thought leader, with a strong reputation and influence in the life sciences and/or food & beverage sectors.
2. Experience coordinating business development efforts across multiple geographies and industry verticals.
3. Ability to develop, manage, and optimize BD team performance, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives.
4. Strong understanding of financial modeling, project feasibility, and risk assessment for large-scale projects.

Travel Requirements

Travel requirements will vary based on geography and business needs. Some regions may require extensive travel (up to 70%) while others may have more moderate travel expectations (20-30%). The Director Business Development should be flexible and willing to travel as needed for client meetings, industry events and internal coordination.

Compensation

The full pay range for the position in California is $178,819.00 to $286,111.00, based on experience.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

CRB is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and it is our policy to provide equal opportunity to all people without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other legally protected category. Employment is contingent on background screening.

CRB does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms or agencies. Any resume submitted to any employee of CRB without a prior written search agreement will be considered unsolicited and the property of CRB. Please, no phone calls or emails.

CRB offers a complete and competitive benefit package designed to meet individual and family needs.

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.