Director of Communications and Business Development

Director of Communications and Business DevelopmentLocation: Nashville, TN (preferred)Salary Range: $95,000 – $105,000Reports to: Principal of Operations, Christopher MantleHave you got what it takes to succeed The following information should be read carefully by all candidates.About Hodgson Douglas Landscape ArchitectsHodgson Douglas Landscape Architects (HDLA) is an award-winning landscape architecture and urban design firm dedicated to creating meaningful, lasting public spaces that enrich communities. Our work spans parks and recreation, civic, institutional, and private development projects throughout the Southeast, Texas, and beyond. We believe in the power of design to connect people to place — and we’re seeking a strategic, relationship-driven leader to help share that vision with the world. Position OverviewThe Director of Communications and Business Development will lead firm-wide efforts to position HDLA for continued growth and recognition in both the public and private sectors. This role combines strategic marketing, relationship development, and brand storytelling to generate meaningful connections with clients and collaborators, ultimately driving new project opportunities.The ideal candidate is a dynamic communicator who understands the landscape architecture and design industries, is comfortable navigating both public agency and private development networks, and can craft a clear, compelling message that represents the firm’s expertise and values. Key ResponsibilitiesBusiness DevelopmentIdentify and build relationships with key decision makers in parks and recreation departments, planning agencies, and municipalities across the Southeast, Texas, and other emerging markets.Proactively position HDLA for upcoming opportunities by tracking project pipelines, funding cycles, and anticipated RFP releases.Coordinate and schedule strategic introductions, presentations, and meetings between firm partners and potential clients.Develop and maintain a structured business development plan with measurable goals for lead generation, relationship building, and proposal success.Identify and cultivate relationships with private-sector leaders in multifamily, mixed-use, and public space development, promoting the firm’s capabilities and design expertise.Communications and Brand StrategyShape and steward the HDLA brand voice across all platforms, materials, and communications.Oversee the design, messaging, and tone of all marketing and proposal materials, ensuring alignment with the firm’s vision and values.Lead development of proposal narratives, graphic design responses, and marketing collateral in collaboration with the Marketing Manager.Establish and implement a communications strategy that elevates the firm’s profile through storytelling, digital presence, publications, and thought leadership.Leadership and CollaborationSupervise and mentor the Marketing Manager, providing strategic direction and ensuring consistency and quality across all proposals and communications.Work closely with firm leadership — particularly the Principal of Operations — to align business development goals with financial targets and firm-wide strategy.Participate in firm planning and operations meetings to ensure marketing and business development efforts are integrated across the company. Performance MetricsSuccess in this role will be evaluated based on:Number of new project opportunities generated.Number and quality of new client relationships established.Effectiveness of strategic plans and outreach efforts in positioning the firm for key opportunities.Strengthening of existing client relationships.Proposal win rate and contribution to firm-wide growth goals. QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Landscape Architecture, Architecture, or related field.Minimum 7–10 years of professional experience in business development, marketing strategy, or communications within the design, planning, or A/E industry.Deep understanding of public procurement processes, including RFP/RFQ cycles and consultant selection procedures.Proven ability to develop relationships with both public and private sector clients.Exceptional communication, organization, and presentation skills.Strong leadership ability with experience managing and mentoring staff.Proficiency in graphic design and proposal tools (Adobe Creative Suite, InDesign, etc.) is highly desirable. Why Join UsAt HDLA, you’ll join a passionate, collaborative team dedicated to elevating the quality of public and private spaces across the region. This is a unique opportunity to shape the next chapter of a respected firm by defining how we tell our story, grow our relationships, and expand our impact.                                                                        Interested candidates should send a resume, cover letter, and work samples in PDF format to Christopher Mantle at cmantle@hodgsondouglas.com.