National Mission Critical Client Leader

Join to apply for the National Mission Critical Client Leader role at DLR Group. DLR Group is an integrated design firm with a promise to elevate the human experience through design. This fuels the work we do around the world and inspires our mission to improve the lives of our clients, our communities, and our planet. If this sparks your interest, you’re in the right place.

DLR Group is seeking a Client Leader for our rapidly expanding Mission‑Critical practice to drive strategic growth, nurture client partnerships, and lead project success. In this role, you will help shape the future of digital infrastructure and operationally essential environments from hyperscale data centers to emergency operations and high‑performance industrial facilities.

As a trusted advisor and relationship builder, you will guide clients through complex technical programs, ensuring alignment between their mission, operational demands, and the integrated design solutions we deliver. You will serve as a market‑facing leader who elevates our practice brand, expands key client partnerships, and champions excellence in project delivery and client satisfaction.

• Cultivate and expand relationships with mission‑critical clients, hyperscale operators, colocation providers, and critical operations agencies
• Serve as a trusted advisor, deeply understanding client mission, technical requirements, risk profiles, and operational priorities
• Lead strategic pursuits, including qualification packages, proposals, interviews, and relationship‑building initiatives

• Guide project execution from early strategy through post‑occupancy, ensuring alignment with quality, schedule, and budget goals
• Partner with Project Managers on staffing plans, fee development, resourcing, and scope management
• Oversee invoicing, accounts receivable, and financial performance across multiple projects and clients
• Manage contract negotiations, amendments, and change requests with a focus on clarity, transparency, and value

• Collaborate closely with Design Leaders, engineers, and technical specialists to integrate client goals with design excellence
• Facilitate decision‑making and communication across internal and external teams
• Support seamless coordination between technical disciplines, vendors, and specialty consultants unique to mission‑critical delivery

• Represent DLR Group in industry organizations, thought‑leadership forums, and client events
• Monitor industry trends, including energy, resiliency, sustainability, cybersecurity, and technology, to inform client solutions
• Help position DLR Group as a leader in the mission‑critical space through relationships, advocacy, and market intelligence

• Foster a collaborative and accountable team environment with a focus on client service and technical excellence
• Mentor staff on client engagement, proposal strategy, and project leadership skills
• Support the advancement of DLR Group’s integrated design model and ESOP culture

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, Interior Design, Construction Management, or a related field (professional licensure or certification strongly preferred)
• 10+ years of AEC industry experience, including 5+ years in a client‑facing role and proven experience in mission‑critical or technically intensive sectors
• Experience managing large‑scale programs or portfolios for mission‑critical, industrial, or hyperscale clients
• Strong understanding of business development, contract negotiation, financial management, and project delivery practices
• Excellent communication, relationship‑building, and presentation skills
• Ability to travel occasionally to support client and project needs
• Must be eligible to work in the United States without the need for visa sponsorship

Our comprehensive benefits at DLR Group include medical, dental, vision, disability, wellness programs, flex spending, paid holidays, and paid time off. We also offer a 401(k) plan, employee stock ownership, and bonus opportunities.

Compensation is based on location, experience, and skills. The suggested pay range for this position is $145,000 - $185,000 USD.

DLR Group follows a four‑day in‑office work model, with employees having the flexibility to work somewhere other than the office on Fridays.

We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/M/F/Veteran/Disabled employer.