VP, Utility National Sector Lead

McKissack & McKissack is a national architectural, engineering, and construction services firm that has earned a strong reputation for consistently delivering results on high profile government and commercial projects. Our organization is guided by a passion for excellence, and we are committed to innovation, collaboration, and delivering superior results that meet and exceeds the needs of our clients. We offer a well-balanced corporate culture that embraces diversity, nurtures professional growth, and rewards hard work. McKissack & McKissack seeks individuals to join our growing organization who have excellent academic and/or work experience, integrity, and client-focused attitudes.

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Full Position Description

McKissack & McKissack, an outgrowth of the oldest African American-owned architecture engineering in the country, has a strong reputation for consistently delivering results on high-profile projects for government and private sector clients. ‍

We are seeking leaders that exhibit the attributes of a great team player, Humble, Hungry and Smart:

• Humble: being of little ego; focusing more on their teammates than themselves.
• Hungry: strong work ethic and drive.
• Smart: what they say or do has a positive outcome on those around them.

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Reporting To: Chief Growth Officer

Who Reports to You: TBD

Where You Work: Chicago, IL or Washington DC

Salary range: $200,000 - $250,000

Your Role (Responsibilities):

Client and Market Leadership

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients, utilities, industry partners, and professional organizations to position the firm as a trusted leader
• Serve as the primary point of contact for key accounts, ensuring client satisfaction and long-term partnerships
• Identify and secure new business opportunities while driving repeat business across the utility sector
• Represent the firm at conferences, client forums, and networking events; serve as a visible ambassador for the sector
• Provide thought leadership through presentations, publications, and participation in industry dialogue

Business Strategy and Financial Management

• Lead development and execution of the firm’s utility sector growth strategy
• Manage sector profit and loss (P&L), ensuring financial performance and achievement of KPIs
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and financial management across programs and projects
• Track competitor activity and market trends to inform strategy and position the firm for success

Program and Project Oversight

• Manage and lead multiple complex programs and projects from preconstruction through closeout
• Provide executive-level oversight to ensure scope, schedule, budget, quality, and safety standards are met
• Enforce compliance with company standards, ethics, and contractual requirements
• Maintain 25% to 50% chargeability on sector assignments while balancing leadership responsibilities

Team and Talent Development

• Build and lead high-performance teams through coaching, training, and mentoring
• Recruit and develop top talent in alignment with business needs and organizational values
• Conduct senior-level performance and development reviews, providing feedback that drives accountability and growth
• Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement across the sector team

Other Responsibilities

• Support business development and marketing efforts to expand market share
• Contribute to strategic decision-making at the executive level
• Perform other duties as necessary or assigned

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Candidate Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Energy Systems, Civil Engineering, Business Administration, or related field
• 10+ years of experience managing utility projects (electric, gas, water/wastewater)
• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification
• Strong record of success in complex, fast-paced environments
• Excellent leadership, communication, analytical, problem-solving, and client management skills
• Communication and Organizational Skills: Excellent communication and organizational skills.

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What you get:

• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• 401k
• Company-paid holidays
• Vacation and Sick Leave
• Employee Assistance Program
• Life Insurance
• Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance

McKissack & McKissack is an equal opportunity employer that recognizes the value of a diverse workforce. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other criteria protected by federal, state or local law.

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McKissack & McKissack is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer