Director of Development and Client Relations

Company Overview

Don Tankersley Construction (DTC), based in Portland, Oregon, is a boutique general contracting firm specializing in high-end custom residential projects. Founded by Don Tankersley in 1992, the company has built a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship, meticulous project management, and deep collaboration with respected architects and interior designers, and discerning clients over the last three decades. With a portfolio that includes new custom builds, full-home remodels, and intricate additions, the firm is known for delivering highly refined projects that reflect thoughtful design and enduring quality.

What sets DTC apart is its attention to exacting detail and its commitment to both the integrity of design and the experience of the client. From early budgeting and scope definition to seamless execution, the team brings precision, transparency, and professionalism to every phase of a project. Their strong relationships with leading Pacific Northwest architects and artisans support a collaborative process that results in beautiful, functional, and timeless spaces.

Job Description

DTC is entering an exciting phase of growth and is seeking a proven leader to join our senior leadership team as Director of Development and Client Relations. In this role, you will drive growth, strengthen client relationships, and enhance processes, while assuming increasing levels of strategic and operational responsibility over time.

You will work closely with the Founder/CEO to gain a deep understanding of the company’s history, culture, operations, clients, and vision. As part of a thoughtfully planned, multi-year leadership succession, this role offers the opportunity to steadily expand your responsibilities across the business, with the potential to transition into the CEO position in the future.

The ideal candidate will honor the company’s legacy while leading it into its next chapter of growth, operational maturity, and innovation. This role requires an experienced, values-driven leader with deep expertise in residential construction and a collaborative, relationship-focused leadership style.

Key Responsibilities

Business Development & Client Relations

  • Maintain strong relationships with long-standing clients, partners, and suppliers while expanding the company’s network.

  • Lead business development efforts to expand the company’s client base and project pipeline.

  • Represent the company in public forums, community engagements, and industry events.

Strategic Leadership

  • Develop and implement long-term strategic plans aligned with company vision and market opportunities.

  • Stay ahead of industry trends, market shifts, and regulatory changes affecting residential construction.

  • Identify and cultivate new business opportunities, partnerships, and revenue streams aligned with the company’s core competencies.

Team Leadership & Culture

  • Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team.

  • Build and maintain a strong company culture that emphasizes safety, integrity, innovation, and excellence.

  • Promote accountability, collaboration, and professional growth throughout the organization.

In addition to the responsibilities listed above, the ideal candidate will, over time, assume additional responsibilities as they demonstrate increased impact on the business and the ability to take on more scope: 

Leadership Transition & Cultural Stewardship

  • Collaborate closely with the Founder/CEO during a transition period to deeply understand company history, values, and strategic priorities.

  • Maintain and evolve the organizational culture rooted in integrity, craftsmanship, and customer relationships.

  • Serve as a steward of the company’s legacy while positioning the organization for long-term competitiveness.

Operational Management

  • Oversee day-to-day business operations including project management, construction schedules, procurement, and client relations.

  • Partner with the COO to ensure smoothly running construction operations including planning, project execution, subcontractor management, and quality control.

  • Ensure adherence to quality, safety, and regulatory standards across all construction sites.

  • Implement process improvements to increase operational efficiency and scalability. 

Financial Oversight

  • Manage the company’s financial performance including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting.

  • Partner with the Financial Controller to ensure sound financial practices including budgeting, forecasting, cost controls, and reporting.

  • Safeguard the company’s financial health while investing wisely in talent, technology, and tools.

Governance & Compliance

  • Ensure compliance with all construction regulations, safety requirements, and labor standards.

  • Uphold ethical standards and promote good governance practices across the organization.

  • Monitor risk exposure and proactively address potential legal, operational, or reputational issues.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Business Administration or related field; MBA or equivalent preferred.

  • 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in residential and/or commercial construction, including P&L responsibility.

  • Proven track record of successfully managing construction operations and scaling a mid-size business.

  • Strong understanding of operational best practices in construction, permitting, estimating, and project management.

  • Strong knowledge of budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting.

  • Familiarity with construction software and project management tools.

  • Excellent leadership, communication, and team-building skills with a collaborative approach.

  • Experience managing through leadership transitions or organizational change preferred.

Ideal Candidate Traits

  • Respect for legacy – understands the importance of family or founder-built culture.

  • Strategic thinker with hands-on ability – can both lead and execute.

  • Emotionally intelligent – can build trust with long-time employees, stakeholders, partners and clients.

  • Growth mindset – seeks innovation without undermining what already works.

  • Change leader – experienced in guiding organizations through transition periods.

Key Competencies

  • Strategic Thinking

  • Financial Acumen

  • Operational Efficiency

  • Leadership & Team Building

  • Problem Solving

  • Customer Focus

  • Industry Knowledge

  • Clear communications

  • Client/partner rolodex

Salary and Benefits

DTC offers a competitive total compensation package designed to attract, motivate, and retain top talent while rewarding employees for their contributions to the company’s growth and success.

The Director of Business Development and Client Relations is a full-time position with a starting annual salary range of $100,000–$140,000, depending on experience. Salary increases are reviewed annually as part of the Employee Performance Review, conducted on each employee’s work anniversary.

Full-time employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Employee bonus program (corporate and project-based)

  • Medical and vision insurance

  • 401(k) with employer match

  • Paid time off

  • Phone reimbursement

DTC is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of any characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

To apply, please email your resume and cover letter to careers@dtcportland.com.