Roadway Client Service Leader

Overview

GFT is seeking a Roadway Client Service Leader to join our Transportation Group in Texas. This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring regular attendance at any of our Texas offices. Working on the transportation team at GFT offers the opportunity to engage in transformative projects that enhance transportation infrastructure and improve community connectivity, including highways, bridges, and traffic engineering projects.

The team focuses on resilient, sustainable design and construction to deliver solutions that address the complexities of modern, multimodal roadway systems and ensure safe, efficient travel for all.

GFT is seeking a dynamic and experienced Client Service Leader (CSL) to drive business development and growth for the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). The CSL builds trust and delivers value at every client interaction to achieve satisfaction and leverage relationships to benefit the clients and the firm. The CSL will be a growth-minded leader who collaborates with other senior leaders in Transportation and other divisions and mentors staff to drive strategic planning, business development, opportunity identification, proposal and interview presentation creation, project delivery, and relationship building.

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following:

• Serve as a primary point of contact for TxDOT, coordinating activities across districts and service lines.
• Track and maintain TxDOT opportunity pipeline, IDIQ utilization, and firm precertifications.
• Lead multidisciplinary client service teams of project managers, technical leaders, and delivery stakeholders.
• Meet regularly with TxDOT staff at multiple levels to gather feedback on GFT performance, resolve issues, and identify opportunities.
• Build and sustain strong relationships with TxDOT leadership, technical staff, and delivery teams statewide.
• Develop strategies and tactical action plans to achieve business development and client relationship objectives; identify trends and opportunities for growth.
• Identify, evaluate, and prioritize pursuits early; shape capture plans ahead of procurement cycles.
• Initiate and review proposals and sales activities; lead or support interviews and presentations.
• Develop and maintain relationships with potential teaming partners.
• Attend strategically significant conferences and maintain visibility through active participation in professional, civic, and business organizations across Texas.
• Maintain a strong understanding of TxDOT goals, contract requirements, performance metrics, and delivery expectations across programs.
• Partner with project and operations leaders to ensure delivery excellence, risk management, and strong financial performance.
• Provide timely, clear communication across Area, Regional, and Business Group leadership, and key delivery teams.

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering is required.
• Minimum of 15 years' progressive experience as a business development leader or related TxDOT experience.
• Experience leading a team.
• Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in Texas.
• Strong background in heavy civil infrastructure engineering and business development with a verifiable track record of winning and executing large, complex transportation projects.
• Strong existing relationships with TxDOT.
• Growth-focused with the ability to attract and develop talent to expand market share and meet client needs.
• Self-starter with ability to address multiple priorities and consistently meet deadlines.
• Leadership experience with TxDOT or TxDOT as a client.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to challenge, influence, and lead through collaboration.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.

• Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment.
• Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan.
• Competitive paid time off (PTO) accrual.
• Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
• Commitment to professional development and access to training programs; support…