Business Development Lead - Automotive / Industrial Manufacturing

Chicago and Detroit sit at the center of North America's automotive and advanced manufacturing economy, where innovation, mobility, infrastructure, and industry come together. From global automotive OEMs and Tier 1 suppliers to EV manufacturers, battery producers, mobility technology companies, and advanced industrial operations, the region continues to shape the future of transportation and manufacturing. As supply chains evolve and electrification, sustainability, digital manufacturing, and regulatory change reshape the industry, the opportunity is not just to adapt, but to lead. By combining deep automotive market knowledge with GHD's global expertise in environmental services, water, energy, infrastructure, digital transformation, and sustainability, we help manufacturers and suppliers improve operational performance, accelerate growth, reduce risk, and build resilient businesses positioned for long-term success. As part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to leverage a global network of technical specialists and decades of industry experience to deliver meaningful outcomes for clients across the automotive value chain. Our workplace thrives on a hybrid model, combining in-office collaboration and flexibility. Join us in the office three days a week to contribute, connect, and excel in our vibrant environment. Who are we looking for? In response to continued growth within our Market Team, our Central Region Market group is looking to bring onboard a motivated Business Development Partner to expand GHD's presence across the Automotive sector. As a Business Development Partner, you will be responsible for growing strategic relationships with automotive OEMs, electric vehicle manufacturers, battery producers, mobility companies, and Tier 1 suppliers. You will lead GHD pursuits across environmental, sustainability, infrastructure, water, energy, digital, and operational improvement services while driving strategic account growth with some of the automotive industry's most recognized organizations. To support client engagement and collaboration across the region, this position will be based in either our Detroit, MI or Chicago, IL office. Come plan and execute growth strategies for major existing and emerging accounts where developing executive relationships, identifying new opportunities, and applying strategic account management skills are critical. The role requires a strong understanding of the automotive ecosystem, including OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, EV manufacturing, battery production, and the operational challenges facing modern manufacturers. Working with an energetic and high-performing team, this position offers a variety of responsibilities, including: Key Account Management: Manage and grow strategic relationships with automotive OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, EV manufacturers, battery producers, and advanced manufacturing clients. Lead account planning activities and coordinate multidisciplinary teams to deliver value across the client organization. Client Relationship Management / Account Management: Develop and execute relationship management plans for complex client accounts, identifying and strengthening connections with executive sponsors, operations leaders, engineering teams, EHS professionals, sustainability leaders, capital project managers, and procurement stakeholders. Client Needs Clarification: Lead strategic client discussions to understand business objectives, operational challenges, capital investment plans, sustainability goals, and regulatory requirements. Tailor solutions to align with client priorities and drive measurable outcomes. Sell Client Propositions: Position and sell GHD's integrated service offerings, including environmental compliance, permitting, sustainability, water management, facility infrastructure, energy transition, digital solutions, site development, and industrial engineering services. Promoting Client Focus: Champion client success by collaborating across GHD's service lines and business groups to deliver innovative, multidisciplinary solutions that strengthen long-term client relationships. Client Relationship Development / Prospecting: Identify and pursue opportunities with emerging automotive, mobility, EV, battery, and advanced manufacturing companies. Develop relationships with key decision-makers and influencers across target accounts. Client Relationship Management (CRM) Data: Maintain accurate client and opportunity information within CRM systems to support account planning, forecasting, pursuit management, and business development activities. Sales Opportunities Creation: Develop a strong network within the automotive and manufacturing community through participation in industry associations, conferences, trade organizations, and client events to identify growth opportunities and strengthen GHD's market presence. Operational Compliance: Maintain a strong understanding of industry regulations, corporate governance requirements, and GHD policies while ensuring compliance in all business development activities. Personal Capability Building: Continue developing expertise in automotive manufacturing, electrification, supply chain trends, sustainability, advanced technologies, and industry best practices through ongoing professional development and market engagement. What you will bring to the team: Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Business, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, or a related field. Strong knowledge of the automotive, mobility, EV, battery, or advanced manufacturing sectors and the business drivers shaping the industry. Experience in client engagement, strategic account management, and business development, with a demonstrated ability to build relationships across multiple levels within large industrial organizations, from a technical base. Understanding of manufacturing operations, capital projects, environmental compliance, sustainability initiatives, energy transition, or industrial infrastructure programs. Proven ability to develop and execute growth strategies within complex industrial or manufacturing markets. Demonstrated success managing and growing strategic accounts while leading multidisciplinary pursuit teams. A proven Seller/Doer with strong business development, proposal leadership, account planning, and client engagement skills. Established relationships within automotive OEMs, Tier 1 suppliers, EV manufacturers, battery producers, or related industrial sectors are highly desirable. Familiarity with industry organizations such as OESA, MEMA, SAE, AIAG, or similar automotive and manufacturing associations is a plus.