Job Description

Next Step Recruitment is leading the search for a Marketing & Proposal Specialist to join a highly regarded design-focused studio in Vancouver. This is a hands-on role where you'll be at the center of marketing and business development efforts -- crafting persuasive proposals, creating award-worthy materials, and helping the firm win exciting projects that shape communities.
The studio is known for its collaborative culture and impactful work across cultural, institutional, and civic spaces. As part of the team, you'll contribute directly to projects that leave a lasting mark on the city, while working in a supportive, design-driven environment that values creativity, innovation, and teamwork.
About the Role
We're looking for an experienced, creative, and highly organized Marketing & Proposal Specialist to guide and deliver the firm's communications and business development pursuits. Reporting to leadership, you'll oversee the full marketing and proposal function -- shaping strategy while also driving execution. You'll play a central role in positioning the firm within the industry, securing new work, and ensuring all external communications reflect design excellence and values.
Key Responsibilities
Proposals
Actively research leads and identify opportunities aligned with the firm's expertise
Oversee the full lifecycle of RFQs, RFPs, RFEOIs, and similar project opportunities
Manage the Go/No-Go process and collaborate with leadership on pursuit strategy
Lead preparation of high-quality, compliant, and persuasive proposals within strict deadlines
Act as the primary internal and external contact for proposals, coordinating across principals, directors, consultants, and procurement bodies
Assist with interview preparation, coach teams, and ensure materials meet firm standards
Maintain and manage leads/pursuit tracking systems and CRM
Marketing
Develop high-calibre written and graphic materials for award submissions, publications, and business development initiatives
Manage the firm's website, social media, and digital channels with consistent, compelling content
Oversee marketing assets including photography, drawings, brochures, and project descriptions; ensure resources are current and accessible
Strengthen the firm's profile through press opportunities, thought leadership, and industry awards
Support and coordinate firm participation in conferences, networking events, and speaking engagements
Develop and maintain relationships with marketing counterparts at client and consultant organizations
Monitor industry trends, client sectors, and competitor positioning to inform marketing and BD strategies
About You
3-5 years of experience leading marketing and proposal efforts for an architectural, design, engineering, or similar professional services firm
Proven ability to manage multiple pursuits and marketing initiatives under tight deadlines
Strong writing, editing, and communication skills; ability to translate technical content into persuasive narratives
Strong graphic sensibility and ability to develop visually appealing materials
Expertise in Adobe InDesign and proficiency in MS Office (Photoshop/Illustrator an asset)
Background or interest in architecture/design
Demonstrated experience in social media strategy, award submissions, and press engagement
Strong organizational and interpersonal skills, with the ability to coordinate across multiple stakeholders
Proactive, adaptable, naturally curious, and collaborative, with a balance of creative and strategic thinking
Compensation & Benefits
Competitive salary commensurate with experience (expected range $80K-$90K)
Comprehensive health and dental benefits
Paid vacation and sick days
Professional development and training opportunities
Collaborative, design-driven studio culture

Skills Required