Director of Business Development

This role is internally classified as Business Development Manager at Estes Construction.

At Estes Construction, we are people-focused, with a culture of growth and development. We have a collaborative team approach, prioritize safety and quality, and empower every team member to be a leader.

We're looking for a strategic, relationship-driven Business Development Manager (ICAT Services Advocate) who enjoys connecting people, identifying opportunities, and building lasting partnerships. You'll help grow our business across Iowa's K-12 education and manufacturing markets while developing trusted relationships with clients, school leaders, design professionals, and community partners. The ideal candidate combines business acumen and strategic thinking with the ability to turn meaningful relationships into long-term opportunities.

Responsibilities, but are not limited to, the following:

• Build and strengthen relationships with school districts, design professionals, industry partners, clients, and community leaders.
• Identify and pursue strategic business opportunities within Iowa’s K-12 and manufacturing markets.
• Develop a strong presence in key markets through industry associations, civic organizations, networking, and community involvement.
• Cultivate current and past client relationships to identify future opportunities and build lasting partnerships.
• Collaborate with company and operational leaders to align business development efforts with strategic growth goals.
• Maintain an active pipeline of leads, relationships, and prospective opportunities.
• Support K-12 clients through planning and pre-referendum efforts, developing relationships with key district stakeholders and helping advance project goals.
• Partner with project teams throughout planning and design to ensure client goals remain at the forefront.
• Identify marketing and community engagement opportunities that strengthen brand awareness and market presence.
• Represent the company at school board meetings, industry events, groundbreakings, ribbon cuttings, open houses, and other community activities.
• Lead with strategic thinking, accountability, collaboration, integrity, and a commitment to an exceptional client experience.
• Promote a culture of accountability, continuous learning, collaboration, and excellence.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree (B.A.) from a four-year college or university, 4+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrated history of securing new business opportunities and fostering client relationships.
• Strong communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively across teams and with external partners.
• Lead strategic planning efforts for business development, including oversight and mentorship of direct reports to ensure alignment with departmental goals and performance standards.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Willingness and ability to travel for in-person meetings and events. Have availability to attend evening board meetings and occasional community engagement activities.

Benefits to fit your needs:

• Top 75th percentile salary plus bonus program
• 401K with a 5% company match
• Full-time employees are eligible for medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance
• Health Savings and Flex Spending Account
• Generous paid time off programs prioritizing well-being and self-care
• Parental benefits
• Well-being and Employee Assistance Program
• Incentive Compensation Program
• Work program discounts, employee engagement events, professional training and development

About Estes:

Being the best is our true desire. The best builder. The best employer. Achieving this standard of excellence drives us and reminds us daily that being average isn't the Estes way.

Company founders Jim and Lori Estes started their company in 1970 with the guiding principles of advocacy, value, responsiveness and leadership. These four tenets are still the foundation of everything we do and define our culture.

Talent Acquisition Manager

Jenny Dun Schnauber

email: jdun@estesconstruction.com

phone: 319-457-1217