Berlin, Germany
Business development manager
at Ralph Appelbaum Associates
Ralph Appelbaum Associates is seeking a business development manager to join its team in Berlin, Germany.
Position profile
Ralph Appelbaum Associates (RAA) is the world’s largest exhibition design firm, renowned for creating narrative environments that educate, inspire, and engage audiences. We are seeking a full or part-time business development manager to join our Berlin studio, an on-site workplace in the heart of Kreuzberg, Berlin. Flexible and hybrid working between home and office is allowed.
The business development manager is a detail-oriented professional who will work closely with the director of the Berlin studio and the director of business development in London and Berlin to partner with executive and senior staff in new and ongoing marketing initiatives through the creation of engaging content, developing compelling submission materials, public relations, and coordinating support staff. This dynamic position requires expertise in graphic design, time management, and nimble communication skills as well as the ability to effectively collaborate in a multi-disciplinary environment. Understanding of Honorarordnung für Architekten und Ingenieure (HOAI) and Honorarordnung für Ausstellungen (HOAS) are an advantage but not essential.
Responsibilities
Marketing
- organizing, designing, and executing the production of proposal, qualification, and presentation packages in response to time-sensitive public tenders (Ausschreibungen und Wettbewerbsverfahren), direct Requests for Proposals (Einladungen/RFPs), and Expressions of Interest (EOIs)
- assisting with RAA’s awards submissions cycle/process, preparing and making submissions using InDesign
- executing marketing and communication initiatives, including the creation of supporting collateral in the pursuit of new business opportunities
- managing the preparation of project documentation sheets and profiles
- commissioning and oversight of project documentation including professional photography and video
- directing the completion of governmental forms for proposals (national and international)
- collaborating with in-house creative teams to craft visually engaging submission materials using InDesign or Keynote
- managing competition teams
- organizing the development of creative submission requirements, scope reviews, involvement of required subconsultants
- developing strategic approaches to marketing initiatives
- managing communications with internal staff and external contacts to coordinate aspects of the proposal process and schedule meetings as required
- managing the tracking of new business leads, including developing contacts with potential clients, market developments, news organizations
Business development:
- leading the preparation, coordination, and production of portfolios, proposals, qualification packages, presentations, and other competition materials using InDesign
- with colleagues in London and New York, developing communications initiatives, including via the website and social media platforms, through the development of written and visual assets
- tracking market-relevant conferences and other public events, including submission dates for papers and presentations
- coordinating executive participation in event programming
- attending market-relevant conferences as RAA’s business development representative with the aim of increasing RAA’s profile, presence, and contacts
- coordinating with RAA’s internal communications team in the preparation of press releases and project PR around competition wins and openings
- maintaining contacts with journalists and publications both print and online to activate interest in RAA’s projects and events
- organizing cross-studio requests and initiatives, working with colleagues internationally
- providing administrative support to the department
- maintaining firm-wide experience records
Qualifications:
- bachelor’s degree (minimum) in a relevant field such as communications, culture management, marketing, graphic design, writing, or museum studies
- five plus years’ of graphic design, culture management, communication, marketing, or development experience in design, architecture, publishing, advertising, or related fields
- proficiency in Adobe InDesign and Photoshop, Microsoft Office Suite, Keynote, and Google Workspace (Docs and Slides)
- demonstrated skill in managing multiple, simultaneous, fast-paced deadlines
- fluency in German and English (written and spoken)
- oroficiency in additional European languages a plus
- proactive approach to time and task management
- strong problem-solving skills
- ability to work both independently and as part of a team
- superlative attention to detail
- excellent oral and written communication skills
- adaptable communication style across diverse stakeholders
- responsive and nimble coordination and scheduling skills
- knowledge of the RFP / RFQ process
- understanding of the exhibition, media or architectural development process is a plus
- understanding of Honorarordnung für Architekten und Ingenieure (HOAI) and Honorarordnung für Ausstellungen (HOAS) are an advantage
Why join us:
- be part of a globally-recognized firm with a commitment to innovative and impactful design
- work in a dynamic and creative environment with a team of dedicated professionals
- opportunities for professional growth and development
- flexible work arrangements
How to apply
Unfortunately, due to the volume of applications we receive, we cannot personally respond to each applicant. Qualified candidates will be contacted via email regarding our interview process. To apply for this role, please send a cover letter, CV, and portfolio to [email protected].
EDAI
RAA is an equal opportunity practice that is committed to furthering diversity and inclusion in our studio. RAA does not discriminate in employment or access to its programs or activities on the basis of: race; color; creed; religion; gender; gender identity or expression; sex; sexual orientation; national origin or ancestry; citizenship status; health or genetic information; age; marital status; mental or physical disability; pregnancy; political affiliation; arrest record; past, present, or future service in the uniformed services; or any other legally protected status. Our policy of non-discrimination applies to all personnel practices, including, but not limited to, recruitment, project assignments, professional development, compensation, or any other employment practice. We strongly encourage women, people of color, and candidates from other underrepresented communities to apply.