Northern California Business Development Leader; Water Business Group

Northern California Business Development Leader (Water Business Group) - (186177)

At HDR, our employee‑owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves:
What is our impact on the world?

We believe water is more than a resource, it's a shared responsibility. As part of our Water Business Group, you’ll help shape how communities manage water for generations to come. From delivering safe drinking water and treating wastewater responsibly to developing sustainable water supplies and protecting lives and property through flood control, your work will directly support public health, environmental sustainability, and infrastructure resilience.

Primary Responsibilities

Working in partnership with the Northern California Water Business Group (WBG) Management, the Bay Area Water Client Development Leader is responsible for strategically developing and directing business development opportunities for clients requiring drinking water, wastewater and water resources planning and design consulting services throughout northern California, focusing on opportunities and clients in the San Francisco Bay Area. Duties include maintaining and expanding existing client relationships;

identifying, establishing, and nurturing relationships with new target clients; developing market networks; positioning the firm for project pursuits that result in client selection; and leading technical teams in proposal and interview preparation.

Why This Role Matters

Join a team that’s shaping the future of water infrastructure in Northern California. As the Bay Area Water Client Development Leader, you’ll be at the forefront of driving innovation, building strategic partnerships, and unlocking new opportunities in drinking water, wastewater, and water resources planning and design.

What You’ll Do

As a Business Development Leader
, you’ll be the connector, strategist, and visionary who:

• Co‑create annual growth strategies with leadership to meet ambitious financial goals and expand our regional footprint.
• Identify and engage with key decision‑makers across public and private sectors, becoming the face of HDR in the Bay Area.
• Partner with technical and market leaders to craft winning strategies and proposals that resonate with clients.
• Leverage HDR’s business tools to track progress, analyze trends, and make informed decisions.
• Develop compelling materials in collaboration with marketing to showcase our expertise and elevate our brand.
• Serve as a trusted advisor and project principal, ensuring client satisfaction and long‑term partnerships.
• Mentor and inspire emerging professionals, helping shape the next generation of leaders.
• Represent HDR at industry events, speak on panels, and build your personal brand while promoting HDR’s mission.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a professional, engineering, or related field.
• Maintain a professional or engineering registration or certificate or have related technical experience.
• Proven business development success in the water consulting industry.
• Existing network of local clients is beneficial.
• Experienced in the development and management of diverse teams.
• Willingness to travel including overnight trips.
• Commitment to HDR’s core values of quality work and continuous improvement.
• Active participation in our employee‑owned culture is a must.

Required Qualifications

• A minimum of 15 years relevant industry experience.
• Demonstrated self‑starter with a history of completing projects with limited oversight.
• Deep knowledge of the A/E/C industry's standard approach to procurement of professional services.
• Ability to motivate and inspire others.
• Ability to build a network of clients and industry partners.
• Experience in sales and developing effective win strategies.
• Strong financial acumen and negotiation skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Ability and desire to travel and engage with others in‑person.
• Experience writing compelling content based on information from technical staff.
• Experience growing programs in new or highly competitive markets.
• Experience winning high‑value contracts in the A/E/C industry.

Equal Opportunity Employment

At HDR, we are committed to employment equity. We are an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants, regardless of criminal histories, arrest and conviction records.