Main Responsibilities of a Business Development Design Professional at Cushing Terrell
Blake's role at Cushing Terrell involves a dual focus: architectural production using 3D modeling software for projects from as-built models to demolition and new work, and business development which includes client interfacing and maintaining relationships through events, a "fun part of the job" for sociable individuals. With increasing experience, responsibilities now include direct interaction with city officials regarding permitting processes, a departure from the previous "do the drawings, hand it off" routine, showcasing growth and a more hands-on approach.
Architectural Design, Client Relations, Business Development, Project Coordination, Permitting Processes
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Blake Cronin
Business Development | Design Professional
Cushing Terrell
Univeristy of San Diego
Architecture, Interior Design
Architecture, Construction & Design, Advertising, Communications & Marketing
Creative
Video Highlights
1. Utilizing 3D modeling software to create as-built models based on client visions, progressing through demolition and new work processes to develop comprehensive drawing sets.
2. Coordinating with structural engineers and interior designers to ensure alignment, addressing crucial details like material selection and spatial allowances for successful project execution.
3. Engaging in business development activities such as client interfacing, attending networking events (happy hours, golf), and coordinating office events to foster relationships and attract new clients, emphasizing the importance of sociability and proactive involvement.
Transcript
What are the main responsibilities within your role?
I do a little bit of client interfacing. The majority of my work on the design professional side is architecture production.
I develop an as-built model using 3D modeling software to reflect existing conditions. From there, we go through the demolition process, selecting which parts to demo, and then the new work process. This creates a drawing set that I coordinate with structural engineers and interior designers.
It's important to ensure everything is aligned, that it's going to work, and that we have the right materials and allowances. Those small details can make or break a project.
About three years in, I started sending drawings to the city and interfacing with them on our permitting processes. This is a more hands-on role, unlike before where I just did the drawings and handed them off. Now, I'm back and forth with the city, addressing their questions.
The other half of my role is business development. I work to bring in new clients and maintain good relationships with existing ones. This involves attending happy hours, playing golf, and coordinating office parties.
It's important to ensure the right people are invited and that there are no conflicting guests. If you're sociable and outgoing, this is an easy part of the job to get involved in. Many firms are looking for people to represent the company.
If this interests you, I would recommend talking to your superiors about how you can be involved in business development or marketing communications within the firm.