Client Leader, Sports

DLR Group • Overland Park, KS

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

DLR Group is seeking a Sports Client Leader for its Kansas City studio. The role supports the firm’s Sports practice, which designs facilities intended to inspire athletes, engage fans, and strengthen communities. The Client Leader contributes to business development, manages client relationships, and leads contract negotiations. They explain DLR Group’s design process to clients and collaborate with the Project Manager to support each project’s financial success. Across the project lifecycle, they maintain regular client contact, encourage a collaborative and innovative working environment, and work to meet both client and firm goals. The role also involves overseeing project execution, coordinating team members and external partners, monitoring deliverables and quality, supporting invoicing and receivables, and contributing to proposals and client interviews. Applicants must submit a current portfolio or work samples in PDF format. DLR Group follows a four-day in-office work model, with flexibility to work elsewhere on Fridays.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture.
• At least 10 years of professional experience in the AEC industry, including at least 5 years in a client-facing role leading Professional Sports projects.
• Strong understanding of business management principles, including strategic planning, resource allocation, and leadership.
• Knowledge of customer service principles, including needs assessment, quality standards, and customer satisfaction.
• Expertise in design techniques and tools for producing technical plans, drawings, and models.
• Familiarity with building methods, materials, and systems for construction and renovation projects.
• Strong critical-thinking, time-management, and verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to actively listen, understand others’ perspectives, and respond thoughtfully in conversations.
• Submit a current portfolio or work samples in PDF format.

Nice To Haves

• Professional licensure in Architecture is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage project execution to align with budget, schedule, and scope while maintaining client expectations.
• Collaborate with the Project Manager on staffing, responsibilities, and performance feedback for project team members.
• Track project milestones and deliverables, ensure adherence to quality standards, and prepare regular status reports.
• Facilitate and document meetings with staff and clients, coordinating project personnel, vendors, and consultants.
• Participate in client contract negotiations, manage change requests, and approve project plan modifications.
• Support business development by contributing to RFP responses and participating in client interviews.
• Oversee project invoicing for accuracy and alignment with work deliverables, and manage accounts receivable.
• Maintain consistent client contact and educate clients about the design process.
• Foster a collaborative and innovative work environment and help ensure client and DLR Group goals are met.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior