Department Lead- Land Development
Our client, a nationally recognized engineering consultancy, is seeking a Department Lead - Land Development to drive the continued growth of its Columbus, Ohio operation. This is a unique opportunity for an entrepreneurial leader to take ownership of an established platform, expand client relationships, build high-performing teams, and play a key role in shaping the firm's long-term presence across Central Ohio.
The Opportunity
As Department Lead, you will be responsible for driving the growth and leadership of the Columbus land development practice while developing and strengthening strategic client relationships across the region. This role will lead business development initiatives, mentor engineering professionals, and play a key role in expanding the team's presence within one of the nation's most active land development markets.
With significant autonomy and the support of a nationally recognized engineering platform, this role offers the opportunity to shape business strategy, grow a high-performing team, and establish a lasting impact on the firm's continued success throughout Central Ohio and the Midwest.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the growth and expansion of the Columbus Land Development practice.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with existing clients and key stakeholders.
- Create and execute business plans, growth strategies, and market initiatives.
- Identify new business opportunities and secure project work across a variety of development sectors.
- Build, mentor, and lead teams of project managers, engineers, and technical professionals.
- Oversee project delivery, staffing, resource planning, and financial performance.
- Manage project profitability while ensuring exceptional client service.
- Lead proposal preparation, contract negotiations, fee development, and project pursuits.
- Foster collaboration across multidisciplinary teams to deliver comprehensive client solutions.
- Serve as a trusted advisor to clients and industry partners throughout the development process.
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor's Degree in Civil Engineering or a related discipline.
- Professional Engineer (PE) license.
- 15+ years of experience managing land development projects.
- Strong background in business development and client relationship management.
- Established network of industry contacts within the development community.
- Experience leading engineering teams and mentoring staff.
- Demonstrated success managing projects profitably.
- Strong communication, leadership, and strategic planning skills.
Preferred
- Experience with AutoCAD Civil 3D.
- Existing relationships with developers, architects, land use attorneys, planners, and municipal agencies.
- Experience developing proposals, scopes of work, and project budgets.
- Active participation in industry organizations and professional associations.
Compensation and Benefits
Our client offers a highly competitive compensation package designed to reward leadership, business development success, and overall practice performance.
- Base Salary: $180,000 - $250,000
- Lucrative performance-based bonus structure
- Long-term leadership and advancement opportunities
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- Company-paid life and disability insurance
- Generous paid time off and holiday program
- Flexible work arrangements
- Continuing education and professional development support
- Professional membership and licensure reimbursement
- Leadership training and mentorship opportunities
- Collaborative and employee-focused culture with exceptional retention
FAQs
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