AO · 23 hours ago
Proposal Lead
Orange, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
$85K/yr - $95K/yr
5+ years expAO is a company that values collaboration and creativity, and they are seeking a Proposal Lead to join their Business Development and Marketing team. This role is responsible for driving the strategy, coordination, and production of competitive architectural submissions, collaborating closely with various teams to create high-quality proposals that enhance the company's market position.
IndustrialArchitecture & DesignProfessional ServicesArchitecture
Hiring Manager
Katie Dunn, PHR
Responsibilities
Lead and participate in kick-off meetings and strategy sessions for RFQs, RFPs, and interviews, including scheduling, tracking tasks, and managing timelines
Develop proposal outlines, content plans, and coordinate execution with pursuit teams
Work with Marketing and AO leadership to ensure messaging, visuals, and project objectives align with client expectations
Conduct proposal debriefs—win or lose—to identify improvements that continually elevate our competitive edge
Plan, manage, write, and deliver polished, visually compelling, and persuasive proposal documents that reflect the firm’s voice and values
Collaborate with Marketing on proposal design and production to ensure professional, timely delivery
Support development of interview presentations and prepare teams with materials, logistics, and unified messaging
Maintain marketing collateral databases (project profiles, CVs, narratives, etc.) to ensure accurate, high-quality content for pursuit efforts
Continuously monitor portals and industry channels to identify opportunities
Analyze pursuit requirements to ensure all submissions meet client criteria and expectations
Assess competitive positioning to highlight our differentiators and strategic strengths
Research and coordinate teaming opportunities—including subconsultants and architectural partners
Coordinate cross-functional teams, including marketing staff, designers, consultants, and architect leads, with clear roles, responsibilities, and timelines
Ensure accuracy and quality across marketing databases and submissions while upholding architectural documentation standards
Foster a culture of continuous improvement and support team development
Contribute to broader marketing and business development strategy discussions
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in marketing communications, writing, or architecture-related content development
Minimum 5 years' experience in communications, marketing, media relations, brand development, or related functions—preferably within architecture, design, or real estate development
Strong understanding of brand and marketing strategy, with the ability to craft engaging narratives for diverse audiences
Familiarity with key topics and market drivers shaping today's built environment
Exceptional writing and editing abilities with strong verbal communication skills
Proficiency in visual communication, including diagrams, tables, and formatted layouts that enhance clarity and persuasion
Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Analytical thinker with strong problem-solving skills
Technical proficiency with: Microsoft 365 (Word, PowerPoint), Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop), Mailchimp, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, WordPress, OpenAsset
Preferred
Experience with video editing software is a plus
Benefits
Full Suite of Medical, Dental, Life & Supplemental Insurance
Ongoing Education and Exam Reimbursement
Most Medical Plans fully paid for employee-only coverage
Company Paid Basic Life Insurance & Long-Term Disability
Retirement Plan, Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
Overtime Compensation for Hourly Employees
Paid Vacation, Holidays and Sick Time
Rail Station one block from campus
Company
AO
Founded in 1974, AO is a full service Architectural, Master Planning and Design firm specializing in Retail, Residential and Mixed-Use projects.
201-500 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageLeadership Team
RC Alley
Partner
Recent News
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