Business Development Associate

About The Open Room

The Open Room is an architecture and education studio that merges architectural practice with edtech to build both physical spaces and learning ecosystems. The studio challenges traditional boundaries between the design studio and classroom, reshaping how architecture and design are practiced, taught, and experienced. Team members work on innovative architectural projects as well as immersive digital learning platforms. The Open Room fosters an open environment where ideas, skills, and creativity can be shared freely. It is an ideal setting for professionals interested in both built environments and education-driven innovation.

About the Role

The Business Development Associate is a full-time, on-site role based in the Greater Chennai Area. This role involves identifying and pursuing new business opportunities, including lead generation and relationship building with educational institutions, design organizations, and potential partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Conducting market research.
• Preparing and delivering presentations.
• Supporting sales pitches.
• Maintaining a pipeline of prospective clients.
• Coordinating with the architecture and learning teams to align offerings with client needs.
• Assisting in proposal development.
• Tracking business development metrics.
• Regular communication with stakeholders to ensure a high-quality experience and long-term partnerships.

Qualifications

• Strong presentation skills, including designing and delivering effective presentations.
• Experience with lead generation and market research to identify and qualify prospective clients.
• Excellent communication skills for engaging stakeholders, negotiating, and maintaining relationships.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams in architecture, education, and technology.
• Prior experience in business development, sales, or client-facing roles, preferably in design, architecture, or edtech sectors.
• Comfort with data tracking and CRM tools to manage business development activities.
• Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, architecture, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• Willingness to work on-site in the Greater Chennai Area and adapt to a dynamic, learning-focused environment.