Architectural Facade Design Manager(Washington, DC)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Architectural Facade Design Manager

Company: Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope (OBE)

Location: Kent, Washington, United States (with travel to Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Sales Operations / Business Development / Architectural Sales

Date Posted: August 07, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive regional growth by securing basis-of-design specifications for architectural glass and glazing solutions.

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships within the architectural and design community across Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas.

• Manage a robust pipeline of project opportunities from concept through completion, leveraging a deep understanding of the specification-driven bidding process.

• Act as a key liaison between architects, designers, developers, consultants, contractors, and OBE's internal sales and technical teams.

• Utilize expert product knowledge and technical acumen to provide solution-based recommendations for complex façade requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role sits at the intersection of sales, technical expertise, and architectural engagement. While the title is "Manager," the core function is driving specification wins through relationship building and technical advocacy, aligning with a Business Development or Senior Architectural Sales profile within a GTM operations context. The specified travel suggests a field-based role with significant client-facing responsibilities.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Proactively engage with architects, designers, developers, and consultants to secure OBE and CRL products as the basis of design for new construction and renovation projects.

• Meticulously track project opportunities, specification progress, and all relevant customer interactions within the OBE CRM system to ensure data integrity and pipeline visibility.

• Foster seamless collaboration with Architectural Specialists, Marketing, Strategic Sales, and Distribution Sales teams to create unified strategies for project acquisition and conversion.

• Develop and nurture a high-quality pipeline of projects by consistently identifying and pursuing new opportunities, directly contributing to sustained regional sales growth.

• Effectively manage multiple complex projects simultaneously, navigating each stage of the design and development lifecycle with precision and foresight.

• Conduct strategic customer visits, impactful presentations, and targeted appointments with key stakeholders including architects, designers, developers, consultants, owners, and general contractors.

• Champion OBE and CRL products, systems, and cutting-edge technical solutions, clearly articulating value propositions to critical decision-makers.

• Build, strengthen, and maintain influential relationships within the regional architectural and design community, establishing OBE as a trusted partner.

• Maintain an expert-level understanding of OBE's comprehensive product portfolio and provide tailored technical recommendations that address specific project challenges.

• Collaborate effectively with diverse cross-functional teams, including engineering, product development, and operations, to ensure project success and customer satisfaction.

• Actively participate in and contribute to regional AIA, CSI, IIDA, and other relevant industry association meetings and events to enhance market presence and networking.

• Stay abreast of evolving market trends, competitive landscapes, and emerging customer requirements, synthesizing this information into actionable insights for leadership.

• Pursue ongoing professional development and personal growth opportunities to enhance expertise and career trajectory within the organization.

• Travel throughout the assigned territory (Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas) as required, estimated at approximately 30% of the time, to support client engagement and project development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a focus on demand generation and pipeline management within a specification sales model. The emphasis on CRM tracking, cross-functional collaboration, and market intelligence gathering highlights the operational aspects of this sales-focused role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, Business, or a related field is required. Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in project management, architectural sales, business development, or a similar role specifically focused on engaging the design community.

• Demonstrated experience and a strong understanding of the specification-driven bidding process within the design and construction industry.

• Proven track record of success in roles with significant accountability and demonstrable business impact, particularly in driving specification wins. Required Skills:

• Architectural Design & Facade Knowledge: Deep understanding of architectural design principles, facade systems, and building envelope technologies.

• Specification Sales Process: Expertise in navigating and influencing the specification-driven sales cycle within the construction industry.

• Relationship Management: Proven ability to build, nurture, and leverage strong, long-term relationships with architects, designers, and other key industry professionals.

• Project Management: Strong capabilities in managing multiple, complex projects simultaneously from initiation through completion, ensuring deadlines are met.

• Technical Acumen: Ability to interpret architectural drawings, understand construction documentation, and provide technically sound recommendations for façade solutions.

• CRM Proficiency: Advanced skills in utilizing CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, Dynamics 365) for pipeline management, activity tracking, and reporting.

• Microsoft Office Suite: High proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook for communication, analysis, and presentation.

• Presentation & Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the confidence and ability to engage and influence large groups of industry professionals.

• Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills to diagnose complex project requirements and develop effective, solution-based recommendations.

• Organizational Skills: Meticulous attention to detail and superior organizational capabilities to manage competing priorities and meet stringent deadlines.

• Product Portfolio Breadth: Comfort and experience working with and presenting a broad range of architectural products and systems.

Preferred Skills:

• LEED Accreditation: Certification demonstrating knowledge of green building practices and standards.

• BIM Experience: Familiarity with Building Information Modeling (BIM) processes and its application in architectural design and specification.

• SAP Experience: Proficiency with SAP ERP system for order management, project tracking, or financial reporting.

• Industry Association Involvement: Active participation or leadership roles in organizations like AIA, CSI, or IIDA.

• Glass & Glazing Industry Expertise: In-depth knowledge specific to glass, glazing systems, and related building envelope components.

• Self-Motivation & Collaboration: A proactive, driven individual who thrives in a collaborative team environment with a positive, growth-oriented mindset.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize a blend of technical design understanding, sales acumen, and operational rigor in project and CRM management. Preferred skills indicate areas for accelerated impact and potential future specialization.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Specification Case Studies: Documented examples of successful specification wins, clearly outlining the project, the architectural challenges, OBE's proposed solution, and the outcome (e.g., secured specification, project win).

• Relationship Mapping: Evidence of established relationships within architectural firms and industry associations, potentially visualized or described to showcase network strength.

• Project Pipeline Management: Examples of how you have managed and forecasted project pipelines, demonstrating your approach to tracking opportunities and predicting sales outcomes.

• Technical Solution Presentation: Materials or examples of presentations delivered to architectural audiences, showcasing your ability to articulate complex technical information clearly and persuasively.

Process Documentation:

• Specification Process Flow: A documented understanding or visual representation of the typical specification process in architectural projects, highlighting key influence points for product selection.

• CRM Workflow Optimization: Examples or descriptions of how you have leveraged CRM systems to streamline sales processes, improve data accuracy, or enhance reporting capabilities for pipeline management.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration Framework: An outline or description of how you have facilitated collaboration between sales, technical, and operational teams to achieve project objectives and ensure seamless execution.

• Market Intelligence Gathering & Reporting: Demonstrations of how you collect, analyze, and report on market trends, competitive activities, and customer needs to inform strategic decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on specification sales, the "portfolio" will likely be demonstrated through case studies of projects where the candidate successfully influenced the design specifications. Process documentation should highlight their systematic approach to sales enablement and pipeline management.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $80,000 - $130,000 USD per year.

Benefits:

• Industry-Competitive Benefits: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans designed to offer excellent coverage at a low cost to employees.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous PTO package to support work-life balance.

• Holidays: Company-recognized holidays, providing dedicated time off.

• Floating Holidays: Additional floating holidays that offer flexibility to choose days off that best suit personal needs.

• Performance-Based Compensation: A pay-for-performance culture that includes potential for annual raises and bonuses, rewarding hard work and successful outcomes.

• Professional Training: Comprehensive training programs designed to equip employees with the necessary knowledge and skills for success in their roles and for career advancement.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work week, typically 40 hours, with flexibility expected to meet project demands and client engagement needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided and aligns with industry benchmarks for a role of this nature and experience level in a major metropolitan area. The benefits package is standard for a large, established company, with a particular emphasis on competitive health plans and performance-based incentives.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architectural Glass and Building Products Manufacturing & Distribution. Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope (OBE) is a significant player in shaping the built environment, contributing to diverse projects from residential buildings to large-scale commercial and institutional structures.

Company Size: Over 6,500 employees, operating more than 80 manufacturing and distribution facilities across five countries. This indicates a large, established organization with significant resources and a broad operational footprint.

Founded: Specific founding date not provided, but the company's extensive operations suggest a long-standing presence and deep market experience.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: This role is part of the broader Go-To-Market (GTM) organization, specifically within the sales and business development function. The Architectural Facade Design Manager will likely collaborate with a regional sales team, architectural specialists, marketing, and distribution sales teams.

• Reporting Structure: The role reports into a regional sales leadership position, likely a Director of Sales or similar, overseeing the specified territory.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The position requires close collaboration with internal technical experts, product development teams, marketing for collateral and support, and distribution partners for fulfillment.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Engagement: The role emphasizes tracking project opportunities and customer interactions within a CRM, indicating a data-informed approach to sales strategy and pipeline management.

• Relationship-Centric Strategy: A core methodology involves building and maintaining strong relationships within the architectural and design community, positioning OBE as a trusted partner.

• Solution-Oriented Approach: The focus is on understanding complex project requirements and providing tailored, solution-based recommendations rather than just product pushing.

Company Website: https://www.obe.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: OBE's scale suggests a structured environment with established processes, but also opportunities for significant impact due to the breadth of projects. The emphasis on collaboration and data management is key for GTM success in this industry.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-to-senior level management position within the sales and business development function, specifically focused on architectural specifications. It requires a blend of technical knowledge, sales expertise, and strategic relationship management.

Reporting Structure: The Architectural Facade Design Manager typically reports to a Regional Sales Director or VP of Sales. This provides visibility to senior leadership and exposure to strategic sales planning.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and significant impact on revenue generation by influencing project specifications early in the design phase. Success in this role translates directly into project wins, market share growth, and increased demand for OBE's products.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into higher-level sales management roles, such as Regional Sales Director, National Sales Manager, or leadership positions within product management or strategic accounts.

• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific product lines, market segments (e.g., healthcare, education), or advanced technologies like BIM and sustainable design (LEED).

• Cross-Functional Moves: Possibility to transition into roles in product marketing, strategic partnerships, or national account management, leveraging established industry relationships and market knowledge.

• Mentorship & Training: Access to company-provided training, industry certifications (like LEED), and potential mentorship opportunities within the extensive OBE network.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for advancement within a large organization, with opportunities to grow both vertically into management and horizontally into specialized or broader GTM functions. The emphasis on specification sales provides a strong foundation for understanding project lifecycles and client needs.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is primarily a field-based role. While based in Dallas, the core work involves extensive travel within Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas to meet with clients and attend industry events. There may be access to local OBE offices for administrative tasks or team meetings, but the primary workspace is on the road and at client sites.

Office Location(s): While the role is based in Dallas, WA (Kent, WA is listed in the raw data, but the description specifies Dallas, TX for the territory of TX, OK, AR), the expectation is that the candidate will operate across these three states. The Kent, WA location appears to be a discrepancy between the provided structured data and the job description content. Assuming the job description's territory is accurate, the role is field-based within TX, OK, AR.

Workspace Context:

• Client-Centric Environment: The workspace is largely defined by client offices, architectural firms, construction sites, and industry events, requiring adaptability and professionalism.

• Technological Support: Access to necessary technology, including a laptop, mobile device, and potentially company vehicle or travel reimbursement, to facilitate remote work and client engagement.

• Collaborative Opportunities: Regular interaction with internal OBE teams (sales, technical, marketing) and external stakeholders (architects, contractors), fostering a collaborative yet independent work style.

Work Schedule:

• A standard 40-hour work week is the baseline, but the demands of client meetings, travel, and project deadlines often require flexibility, including potential evening or weekend work to accommodate schedules of architects and project teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The discrepancy between the listed location (Kent, WA) and the described territory (TX, OK, AR) needs clarification. Assuming the description is accurate, this is a field sales role requiring significant travel and self-management.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review applications and conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth discussion with the hiring manager focusing on experience with specification sales, architectural relationships, project management skills, and understanding of the construction industry.

• Technical/Peer Interview: Potentially an interview with an Architectural Specialist or a senior member of the sales team to evaluate technical knowledge of façade systems and ability to articulate solutions.

• Case Study/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to prepare and present a case study on a past project where they successfully influenced specifications, or a presentation on how they would approach developing the territory.

• Final Interview: A final conversation with senior leadership to discuss strategic approach, long-term vision, and overall fit within the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Specification Wins: Showcase specific projects where your efforts directly led to your products being specified. Quantify impact where possible (e.g., project value, market share gained).

• Demonstrate Relationship Building: Provide examples of how you cultivated and maintained relationships with key architectural firms and industry influencers.

• Illustrate Problem-Solving: Detail how you addressed complex architectural challenges with technical solutions, using case studies to walk through the process and outcome.

• Highlight CRM Proficiency: Be ready to discuss how you use CRM for pipeline management, forecasting, and driving sales efficiency.

• Tailor to OBE: Research OBE's current projects and market position to tailor your examples and demonstrate an understanding of their business and the specific territory.

Challenge Preparation:

• Territory Development Strategy: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach building specification business in Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, including identifying key targets and engagement strategies.

• Product Knowledge Presentation: Practice presenting key aspects of architectural glass and glazing systems, demonstrating your ability to communicate technical details to a non-technical audience.

• Handling Objections: Prepare for questions about competitive situations, pricing challenges, and technical objections, and how you would respond effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess both the candidate's technical sales skills and their strategic approach to building market share in a specification-driven environment. A strong portfolio demonstrating past successes is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Proficiency with a robust CRM platform is essential for tracking leads, managing the sales pipeline, logging activities, and forecasting sales. OBE likely uses a system like Salesforce or Microsoft Dynamics 365.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Essential for daily operations, including Word (proposals, reports), Excel (data analysis, forecasting), PowerPoint (presentations to clients and internal teams), and Outlook (communication and scheduling).

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management tools may be beneficial for tracking multiple project lifecycles, though CRM often serves this purpose for sales activities.

Analytics & Reporting:

• CRM Reporting & Dashboards: Ability to generate and interpret reports from the CRM to analyze sales performance, pipeline health, and market trends.

• Data Analysis Tools: Basic to intermediate skills in Excel for data manipulation and analysis to support sales strategies and reporting.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM System: As mentioned, a strong CRM is critical for managing customer relationships and sales processes.

• Potential for Sales Enablement Tools: May interact with tools that provide digital product catalogs, BIM models, or specification writing assistance.

• Communication Platforms: Utilizing tools like Microsoft Teams or Slack for internal collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary technology focus will be on CRM for pipeline management and Microsoft Office for communication and analysis. Familiarity with BIM and specification tools is a plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A commitment to understanding and meeting the needs of architectural clients, positioning OBE as a trusted partner in their design process.

• Innovation & Quality: Dedication to promoting high-quality, innovative façade solutions that contribute to the built environment and meet stringent performance standards.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing cross-functional teamwork, open communication, and mutual support to achieve collective business objectives.

• Accountability & Integrity: Taking ownership of responsibilities, maintaining ethical standards in all dealings, and delivering on commitments.

• Growth Mindset: Encouraging continuous learning, adaptability to market changes, and a proactive approach to professional development.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive Communication: Regularly engaging with internal teams (sales, technical, marketing) and external stakeholders to ensure alignment and address project needs promptly.

• Solution-Oriented Partnerships: Working collaboratively with architects and contractors to find optimal solutions that meet design intent, performance requirements, and project timelines.

• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share market insights, competitive intelligence, and best practices with the broader sales and operations teams to foster collective learning and improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: OBE's culture appears to emphasize strong client relationships, technical excellence, and collaborative problem-solving, which are essential for success in specification sales within the construction industry.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Competitive Market: The architectural glass and glazing market is competitive, requiring continuous effort to differentiate OBE's offerings and secure specifications against other manufacturers.

• Long Sales Cycles: Specification sales often involve long lead times, from initial design engagement to project bid and award, requiring patience and persistent follow-up.

• Technical Complexity: Understanding and effectively communicating the technical nuances of facade systems, building codes, and performance requirements can be challenging.

• Territory Development: Establishing and growing market share in a new or developing territory requires strategic planning, consistent effort, and effective relationship building.

• Adapting to Design Trends: Staying current with evolving architectural trends, material innovations, and sustainability mandates (e.g., Net Zero, advanced fenestration) is crucial.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Product & Technical Training: Extensive training on OBE's full product portfolio, installation techniques, and performance standards.

• Industry Certifications: Opportunities to pursue certifications such as LEED Accreditation, enhancing expertise in sustainable design.

• Sales Methodology Training: Development in advanced sales techniques, negotiation, and strategic account management.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential to be mentored by experienced sales leaders within OBE to guide career progression.

• Industry Events & Conferences: Participation in key industry events (AIA, CSI) for networking and staying abreast of market developments.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents challenges typical of specification sales in a technical industry, balanced by strong opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a leading company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to identifying and engaging key architects and designers in a new territory." (Focus on territory development strategy, target identification, and initial outreach tactics.)

• "Walk me through a complex façade project where you successfully influenced the basis-of-design specification. What were the key challenges, your strategy, and the outcome?" (Prepare a detailed case study showcasing problem-solving, technical knowledge, and relationship management.)

• "How do you leverage CRM to manage your pipeline and forecast sales effectively?" (Demonstrate your understanding of CRM as a strategic sales tool, not just a data entry system.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope and our position in the market?" (Research OBE's projects, products, and recent news.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with internal teams like technical support and marketing?" (Highlight your ability to work cross-functionally to support client needs.)

• "How do you stay updated on architectural trends and new building technologies?" (Showcase your commitment to continuous learning and industry awareness.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline: 1) The Client/Project Type, 2) The Challenge/Opportunity, 3) Your Role & Strategy, 4) OBE's Solution, 5) Key Results (specification secured, project win, relationship impact).

• Quantify Your Impact: Wherever possible, use data to demonstrate your success (e.g., percentage of specifications secured, value of projects influenced, growth in market share).

• Visual Aids: Use compelling visuals (project photos, drawings if appropriate and permitted) to support your presentations and bring your case studies to life.

• Focus on Value Proposition: Clearly articulate the value OBE brings to architects and projects beyond just the product itself.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strategic, relationship-driven approach to specification sales, backed by concrete examples and a solid understanding of the construction design process.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Architectural Facade Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the greenhouse.io job board.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in architectural sales, specification writing, project management within the construction industry, and CRM proficiency. Use keywords from the job description such as "architectural design," "facade design," "specification sales," and "business development."

• Portfolio Preparation: Compile concise case studies of 2-3 key projects where you successfully influenced architectural specifications. Be ready to discuss your process, challenges, and the results achieved.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope, their key projects, product lines, and their market position. Understand their values and culture.

• Interview Practice: Practice answering common interview questions related to sales strategy, relationship management, technical product knowledge, and CRM usage. Prepare your presentation for any potential case study exercise.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.