A&D Manager

ABOUT USDEBNER is Houston’s premier partner in the innovation of progressive solutions that capture the dynamic nature of today’s workplace. Founded in 1991 on the principle of exceptional service, we bring visions to life with our history of earned expertise and skillful execution.We change perspectives by changing environments, outfitting productive spaces with modern concepts and inspired, enduring style. Our solutions are built on collaboration and enhanced by customization.It’s not just about the furniture, it’s the way you work. OUR MISSIONTo create inspired, original service solutions that bring teams together, paving the way for innovation and success in our clients’ workplaces and our own. OUR VISIONTo define and maintain the standards of quality and service for our industry in Houston and beyond, earning a reputation as people of unwavering integrity who push the boundaries of the evolving office. A&D ManagerBusiness Development Position OverviewThe A&D Manager is responsible for developing and strengthening strategic relationships between DEBNER and the Houston architecture and design community, with a focus on commercial, healthcare, higher education, and hospitality design firms. This role is dedicated to increasing DEBNER’s visibility, influence, and specification opportunities within the A&D market while driving long-term revenue growth and market expansion.The A&D Manager identifies new opportunities, promotes DEBNER and MillerKnoll solutions, and positions the dealership as a trusted partner throughout the design and project lifecycle.This role balances strategic relationship development, networking, market intelligence, and opportunity creation to maintain a strong pipeline and support overall business development initiatives.Key ResponsibilitiesA&D Relationship Development & Market ExpansionDevelop and maintain relationships with Houston-based architecture and design firms across commercial, healthcare, higher education, and hospitality markets.Collaborate with the Business Development Director and President to conduct market research, monitor industry trends, and identify emerging opportunities. Collaborate with MillerKnoll teams, strategic partners, and internal stakeholders to expand market share and secure specification opportunities. Represent DEBNER at industry events, networking functions, trade organizations, and community initiatives to build long-term relationships and generate opportunities. Strategically align internal resources and solutions with project opportunities and client objectives. Understand client and project drivers to position DEBNER as a trusted resource and preferred dealership partner. Day-to-day Engagement & Pipeline Management Dedicate significant time to proactive outreach, networking, and relationship-building activities that generate specification and project opportunities. Participate in weekly business development meetings to review activity, pipeline progression, market intelligence, and strategic initiatives. Dedicate time to learn and engage with external teams to develop strategies to engage designers in product knowledge. Monitor relevant industry organizations, market activity, and project opportunities within the commercial, healthcare, higher education, and hospitality sectors. Effectively transition qualified opportunities to Account Executives and sales teams for project pursuit and closure. Work closely with Account Managers, Marketing, and Design teams to ensure a seamless and consistent client experience. Support internal preparation efforts for finalist presentations and high-impact client interviews. Maintain a highly organized CRM system with accurate tracking of opportunities, client interactions, project intelligence, and strategic insights.Measures of SuccessGrowth and strength of relationships within the Houston A&D community. Increased specification opportunities across commercial, healthcare, higher education, and hospitality markets. Successful collaboration and handoff of opportunities to sales teams. Consistent networking, industry engagement, and relationship-building activity. Accuracy and consistency of CRM management, reporting, and pipeline tracking. Active participation and leadership in business development meetings and industry events.Qualifications and SkillsEducation & ExperienceBachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Interior Design, Industrial Distribution, Construction Management, or related field3+ years of progressive experience in business development, sales, or client strategy within the commercial interiors, design, or construction industry.Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic marketing and business development plans.Strong analytical skills with ability to leverage data to make informed business decisions.Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and CRM tools.Strong knowledge of the contract furniture market is preferred.Established network of client, A&D, and real estate relationships.Proven ability to develop and execute strategic growth initiatives.Leadership experience with the ability to mentor and influence others.Skills and CompetenciesExceptional communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.Strong strategic thinking and market analysis capabilities.Excellent interpersonal, presentation, and relationship-building skills.Ability to manage multiple opportunities and priorities simultaneously.Self-motivated and results-driven with a focus on achieving revenue goals.Professionalism and credibility in interactions with senior executives and industry partners.Collaborative mindset with the ability to work cross-functionally and support team initiatives.