Business Development Lead
ZAS Architects + InteriorsAbout the Company We are a Vancouver-based architecture and interior design firm creating functional, innovative, and aesthetically compelling spaces. Our services include interior design, space planning, renovations and alterations, architectural services, workplace strategy, and project coordination. Our Vancouver practice serves clients across the commercial, workplace, retail, institutional, and municipal sectors. As part of our continued growth, we are seeking an experienced and results-driven Business Development Lead to expand our client base, develop strategic partnerships, generate new project opportunities, and strengthen our presence throughout British Columbia. Position Summary The Business Development Lead will be responsible for generating and converting new business opportunities, with a primary focus on tenant improvements, workplace, commercial interiors, retail, institutional, municipal, and related architectural projects. This role will manage the business development cycle from market intelligence, prospecting, and qualification through proposal support, negotiation, contract finalization, and project handoff. Working closely with the architecture, interior design, marketing, and project teams, the Business Development Lead will build strategic relationships, identify opportunities before formal procurement begins, and secure profitable new work. The ideal candidate is a proven business developer with an established network in British Columbia’s commercial real estate, development, property management, and construction industries. They will have strong sales and negotiation skills, a sound understanding of professional services, and the ability to independently create opportunities and convert relationships into projects. Key Responsibilities Market Development and Lead Generation Identify and pursue new project opportunities throughout British Columbia. Generate qualified leads through industry relationships, referrals, direct outreach, networking events, online platforms, and market research. Build relationships with: Commercial real estate brokers Property managers Building owners Developers Corporate real estate leaders Construction managers General contractors Project management consultants Tenant representatives Institutional and municipal decision-makers Build and maintain a consistent pipeline of prospective projects, clients, and strategic partners. Track market activity, including lease transactions, tenant relocations, workplace modernization initiatives, development activity, and capital improvement programs. Identify potential projects and position the firm before formal RFP, RFQ, or consultant-selection processes begin. Expand the firm’s presence across Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, and other markets throughout British Columbia. Client Relationship Management Build and maintain long-term relationships with existing and prospective clients. Conduct initial client meetings to understand project requirements, commercial objectives, budgets, schedules, procurement requirements, and decision-making processes. Work with the architecture, interior design, and project teams to develop appropriate project approaches, scopes of work, fee proposals, and presentations. Maintain consistent follow-up with prospective clients and move qualified opportunities toward engagement and contract award. Support a professional and responsive client experience throughout the business development process. Maintain relationships after project handoff to encourage repeat assignments, referrals, and broader account development. Strategic Partnerships and Industry Engagement Establish and maintain relationships with commercial brokers, developers, architects, engineers, contractors, project managers, property managers, and other industry partners. Develop referral and teaming relationships that support the firm’s commercial, workplace, retail, institutional, and mu…