Client Development Director Jobs in Saco, ME (NOW HIRING)

Description

At SMRT, we design environments that perform - for people, for communities, and for the future. We are a multi-disciplinary architecture and engineering firm known for delivering high-performing, sustainable, and complex projects nationwide, with deep roots in the Northeast. Collaboration, trust, and continuous learning are core to how we work, and we're committed to creating meaningful career paths for our people as we grow.

About the Team

SMRT's Project Management practice brings together Project Managers and PM Sector Leaders who work across architecture, engineering, interiors, and specialty disciplines. Project Managers play a critical role in guiding teams from concept through construction, ensuring integrated design excellence, strong client relationships, and disciplined project delivery.

The Director of Project Management provides firmwide leadership for this group, strengthening project management capabilities while supporting operational excellence across all project types and sectors.

Why SMRT

• SMRT offers an open, collegial culture that values listening, shared knowledge, leadership, and innovation. This role provides the opportunity to shape how projects are delivered across the firm while mentoring the next generation of project management leaders. We believe great work starts with taking care of our people, SMRT offers:
• Flexible work environment
• Paid time off starting at six weeks (vacation, sick, holidays, and community service)
• Medical, dental, and life insurance
• 401(k) with automatic company contribution
• Education and professional development support
• Reimbursement for licensure and certifications

We're proud of our open, collegial culture - one that values listening, shared knowledge, leadership, and innovation.

SMRT is an AA/EOE employer.

The Opportunity

We are seeking an accomplished Director of Project Management to lead and continuously strengthen SMRT's firmwide project management practice. This senior leadership role provides oversight, mentorship, and accountability for Project Managers and PM Sector Leaders, ensuring consistent project delivery, client satisfaction, and adherence to SMRT's project management best practices.

The Director of Project Management plays a central role in developing current and future PM talent, guiding performance and professional growth, and supporting strategic pursuit decisions that advance SMRT's long-term success.

This is a full-time position based in our Portland, Maine office. The Director of Project Management oversees a staff of 8-12 Project Managers and reports to the Director of Operations. Travel is expected between SMRT offices as needed.

What You'll Do

• Provide firmwide oversight and accountability for the performance, financial health, and successful execution of all assigned projects.
• Ensure consistent delivery quality, client satisfaction, and adherence to project financial targets.
• Lead the development, training, mentorship, and performance management of current and emerging Project Managers.
• Build and sustain a strong pipeline of PM talent through coaching, accountability, and long-term career development.
• Identify, address, and resolve resource allocation challenges, workload balancing issues, and performance concerns.
• Hire Project Managers and oversee recommendations for promotions, compensation adjustments, bonuses, and Employee Development Plans (EDPs).
• Support long-term career advancement and succession planning for Project Managers.
• Ensure consistent application of SMRT's project management tools, processes, and best practices across all projects.
• Participate in project pursuit planning and contribute to the selection and assignment of Project Managers aligned with project needs and client expectations.
• Support strategic initiatives that enhance project delivery consistency and operational excellence across the firm.

Requirements

What We're Looking For

Education and Experience Candidates must meet one of the following education pathways, or an equivalent combination of education and experience:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture, Interior Design, Interior Architecture, or Landscape Architecture from a NAAB-accredited institution OR
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Civil Engineering, or Engineering Technology from an ABET-accredited institution OR
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Construction Management, Building Science, or a related field

AND

• Minimum of 10 years of project management experience managing multiple, multi-disciplinary teams and delivering projects from concept through construction.

Required Credentials

• One or more of the following credentials, held for a minimum of 10 years:
• Licensed Architect or Landscape Architect
• NCIDQ Certification
• Professional Engineer (P.E.)
• Certified Construction Manager (CCM)
• Project Management Professional (PMP)

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Demonstrated success mentoring professionals while holding teams accountable to performance standards.
• Extensive experience managing multi-discipline projects of varying size, scope, and complexity.
• Proven track record of successful project delivery from initiation through completion.
• Strong understanding of contracts, contract negotiation, and client relationship management.
• Experience working with a variety of project delivery methods.
• Clear, confident, and fair decision-making skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and a highly accessible leadership style.
• Ability to guide teams through complex or challenging situations with measured judgment and professionalism.
• Ability to travel to all four SMRT offices as needed.