Business Development Strategist at DES

Compensation

$140,000 – $180,000/yr

Setup: Hybrid
Location: San Francisco, California
Type: Full-time
Posted: Feb 19, 2026

Description

DES is seeking a seasoned Interior Design Business Development Strategist to lead growth in their Workplace and Technology markets. This role involves strategically expanding industry presence, strengthening client relationships, and partnering with interior design leadership and marketing teams. The strategist will focus on developing and executing business development plans, identifying market opportunities, and fostering partnerships. They will also contribute to client engagement, market intelligence, and aligning business development efforts with design practice goals.

Required Skills

Business Development
Client Relationships
Market Growth
CRM Systems
Deltek Vantagepoint
Communication
Presentation Skills
Team Management

Additional Information

Required Previous Experiences: 15+ years of experience in Interior Design within the San Francisco Bay Area A/E/C industry, with a proven track record of leading business development initiatives, cultivating client relationships, and driving market growth.
Career progression from an Interior Design role into business development, with a proven track record of project leadership, team management, and client relationship development.
Demonstrated success in business development across Workplace and Technology sectors, complemented by experience engaging both public and private sector clients in related markets.
Preferred Qualifications: Experience with business development targeting Healthcare, Education, and Life Science sectors within the San Francisco Bay Area is a plus.
Strong Interior Design background with experience engaging directly with end users, managing their needs, and leveraging these relationships to inform design and business development strategies.
Active member in industry associations.
Established network within targeted Interior Design markets.
Proficiency with CRM systems required; experience with Deltek Vantagepoint strongly preferred.
Excellent written and verbal communication, business acumen, and presentation skills.
Proven track record of building and sustaining strong client relationships.
Strong understanding of Interior Design services and market sectors.
Mentor with authenticity for the professional growth of the team.