As part of Kennedy Jenks’ continued growth and leadership evolution, we are inviting employees to express interest in the Area Manager opportunity.   The Area Manager is accountable for the day-to-day management and performance of a defined business area, such as a geographic area or service line sector. This includes area sales, client service, project delivery, staff engagement, and financial performance in alignment with regional and company goals. This leader translates regional strategy into action, identifies risks and opportunities, and brings teams together to deliver high-quality work and exceptional client service. The position reports to the Regional Business Leader and works closely with Client Service Directors, Project Managers, local staff, Risk, and People partners to achieve strong financial performance, effective project execution and resource management, and a positive employee and client experience. What You’ll Do Performance Oversight and Risk Management Engage project delivery and client service teams to maintain visibility into current and forecasted performance within the area. Identify operational, financial, or delivery risks and proactively escalate concerns and recommended solutions to the Regional Business Leader. Uphold and advance company policies, procedures, quality and risk management, and governance processes. Business Development and Execution Support regional and area-level business development through client engagement, proposal leadership, and pursuit planning and positioning. Advance area growth in alignment with regional priorities and the company’s strategic plan. Contribute to proposal development, project scope definition, staffing plans and pricing discussions as appropriate for area-based pursuits. Build and maintain strong local client relationships and identify opportunities for repeat work and expanded services. Promote collaboration and cross-selling of company capabilities within the area and across regions. Project and Financial Performance Be accountable for meeting financial and operational performance targets for the assigned area. Monitor project performance, utilization, backlog, and staffing metrics; take action to address variances. Drive compliance with laws, codes, and regulatory requirements as well as company policies, standards and processes. Client Excellence Champion a client-focused culture within the area, emphasizing quality delivery, responsiveness, and proactive problem-solving. Foster collaboration across disciplines and functional teams to deliver integrated solutions. Address client concerns in partnership with Project Managers, Client Service Directors, and Regional Business Leaders. Talent Management Be responsible for hiring, onboarding, engagement, and retention of staff within the geographic area. Partner with the People team to identify development needs, support career growth, and recruit key talent. Set performance goals, provide coaching and feedback, and conduct performance reviews for direct reports. Address employee relations matters in collaboration with the People team and Regional Business Leader. Contribute to succession planning by identifying high-potential talent and supporting leadership development. Resource Integration and Workforce Planning Manage day-to-day resource planning in collaboration with Project Managers and staff supervisors to assure projects are staffed appropriately to meet delivery and utilization targets. Work collaboratively with other Area Managers and regional leadership to facilitate work sharing and balanced workloads. Proactively address workload challenges and support team members in maintaining sustainable performance. Operational Planning and Execution Implement regional strategies and priorities at the area level. Provide input into workforce needs, hiring plans, and development initiatives. Support and advance continuous improvement efforts related to delivery processes, collaboration, risk mitigation, and employee engagement. What We’re Looking For Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a closely related discipline. At least 10 years of industry experience, including project delivery, people leadership, and client engagement. Strong interpersonal and leadership skills to manage staff and effectively interact with employees at all levels of the company. Skill in translating regional strategy into clear expectations and actionable plans, with a strong focus on execution, accountability, and follow-through. Coaching skills to support team members in achieving performance and development goals. Strong commitment to client service excellence. A collaborative approach to teamwork and resource sharing with regional leadership, peers, and business support service partners. Clear, proactive communication with staff and leadership, including encouraging open dialogue and raising issues early. Adaptability, flexibility, and sound judgment in dynamic environments. Commitment to Kennedy Jenks’ values of trust, service, integrity, diversity, and inclusion. Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree in engineering. How Success Will Be Measured Success in this role will be measured by how effectively the Area Manager can: Meet area-level financial and operational targets. Deliver high-quality projects and maintain positive client feedback. Support employee engagement and retention and develop capable, high-performing teams. Execute regional strategies and area priorities in support of regional and company success. Why Consider This Role This operational and people leadership role offers the opportunity to shape the day-to-day performance of a Kennedy Jenks area, support employee growth, strengthen local client relationships, and turn regional priorities into results. Location and Leadership Presence The Area Manager is expected to reside within the area’s geography and near staff. The role involves close collaboration with local teams, clients, and regional leadership.   Role Level Assignment to Area Manager I, II, or III is based on the sustained scope and complexity of the role, including the size and strategic importance of the area, financial and operational accountability, leadership reach, client and business development responsibilities, and the level of organizational influence and independent decision-making required. Individual performance or tenure alone does not determine level.   Area Manager I Leads the day-to-day performance of a defined area. The role emphasizes consistent execution of regional priorities, direct team leadership, resource coordination, client service, and achievement of established financial and operational goals.   Area Manager II Leads a larger or more complex area with broader people, client, financial, and operational responsibilities. The role operates with greater independence, leads through multiple teams or leaders, and influences decisions and resource allocation across the region.   Area Manager III Leads a highly complex, strategically significant area and contributes beyond the boundaries of the assigned operation. The role shapes regional direction, manages material business risks and opportunities, develops leadership capability, and influences company-wide priorities and practices.