Proposal Lead

MSA is seeking a collaborative Proposal Lead to oversee our proposal development program and lead a high-performing Proposal Team. This role is responsible for managing the full lifecycle of strategic pursuits while ensuring proposals are competitive, compliant, client-focused, and aligned with MSA’s brand and business goals. The Proposal Lead partners closely with technical staff, client liaisons, company leadership, and the broader marketing team to drive a consistent and efficient proposal process that supports growth across the organization.This role can be based out of our WI, MN or IA offices and we offer a work environment that supports fully onsite, hybrid or remote work (but within driving distance of the office).Why MSAAt MSA, we believe people are our greatest strength. Our employee-owned culture encourages collaboration, innovation, and professional growth while empowering team members to make a meaningful impact on the communities we serve. As a Proposal Lead, you will have the opportunity to shape strategic pursuits, mentor a talented team, and contribute directly to MSA’s continued success.MSA Professional Services is 100% employee-owned, meaning every employee has a direct stake in the success of the company. This ownership mindset drives our collaborative culture, long-term thinking, and commitment to delivering high-quality work for the communities we serve.Come join the ownership team at MSA!Employee Testimonial:"As an employee-owned company (100% ESOP), working at MSA is not just a job. We're genuine co-owners, and this ESOP setup promotes a culture of collaboration and engagement throughout MSA because we all have a direct financial interest as owners."Project Engineer Transportation, Cedar Rapids OfficeResponsibilitiesProposal Leadership & StrategyLead MSA’s proposal development program and oversee the full lifecycle of strategic pursuitsManage multiple concurrent proposals and internal projects while ensuring alignment with pursuit strategy, branding, and company goalsOversee proposal pipeline management, workload balancing, and prioritization across the Proposal TeamSchedule and facilitate go/no-go meetings for RFPs and RFQsGuide proposal strategy, messaging, differentiators, and win themesEnsure the development and maintenance of proposal resources, including resumes, project descriptions, templates, and boilerplate contentSupport preparation of client presentations and presentation rehearsalsMaintain accurate and up-to-date proposal materials and information within DAM, ERP, and CRM systemsOversee electronic file management processes, naming conventions, and proposal closeout proceduresTeam Leadership & DevelopmentLead, coach, mentor, and support Proposal Team membersFoster a collaborative and positive team environment that promotes accountability and growthAssess team capacity, resource needs, and skill development opportunities to support business growthEncourage ongoing training and professional developmentModel MSA’s values and serve as a role model across the organizationCollaboration & Client FocusBuild and maintain strong working relationships with internal teams and external clientsCollaborate with technical staff to gather meaningful proposal content and positioningPartner with the Marketing Team to ensure consistency across proposals, collateral, and brand messagingWork closely with marketing leadership and client liaisons to prioritize pursuits and allocate resources effectivelyBusiness PerformanceEnsure production of high-quality, competitive proposals that support revenue growth and client acquisitionTrack proposal metrics and team performance and provide insights and recommendations to leadershipIdentify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce proposal cycle times, and strengthen competitivenessQualificationsRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Business, or a related field, or equivalent experienceMinimum of five years of experience in marketing, proposal coordination, business development support, or related fieldsExperience within the architecture/engineering (A/E) industryStrong organizational, writing, editing, and verbal communication skillsAbility to manage competing deadlines and priorities in a fast-paced environmentStrong leadership, collaboration, and relationship-building skillsProficiency with Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel, and PowerPointProficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, specifically InDesign and AcrobatPreferred QualificationsPrior experience leading or supervising a teamFamiliarity with CRM systems and marketing databasesKnowledge of AP StyleIdeal Candidate ProfileThe ideal candidate is a strategic thinker and strong communicator who thrives in a collaborative environment. They bring a high level of accountability, attention to detail, and service orientation while effectively leading cross-functional teams through complex pursuits. This individual is highly organized, proactive, and passionate about developing people and improving processes.Why MSA100% employee‑owned firm with 100+ years of community impactCollaborative culture with in-house experts for all disciplines across the firmFlexible work‑life integrationOngoing learning and professional growth opportunities for all positionsCommitment to fostering a work environment where employees have a strong sense of inclusion and belongingIncluded on the "ENR Top 500 Design Firms" for over 27 straight yearsAdditional BenefitsEligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:Compensation Range: $79,000 –$126,500 (commensurate with experience)Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) – As a 100% employee-owned company, eligible employees receive company shares at no costFlex Time: Work 42 hours this week? Have 2 hours added to your Flex Time balance to use as time off in the future401(k) Retirement Plan – Generous employer match that is immediately 100% vestedMedical, Dental & Vision Insurance for employees and eligible dependentsPaid Time Off – Minimum of 17 days in the first yearPaid Holidays – 8 holidays annuallyPaid Parental Leave – regardless of birth parentEmployer-Paid Insurance – Life, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverageShort-Term Incentive Program (STIP) – Annual performance-based bonus opportunityEqual Opportunity EmployerMSA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.MSA is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.Reasonable Accommodation StatementIf you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact hr@msa-ps.com so we can assist you.