Proposal Specialist

Who is design for? At hcma, we’re asking big questions about how we can help solve some of the world’s wicked challenges, through design. We create buildings, brands and shared experiences that connect people – all driven by a genuine spirit of curiosity and care.

We are interdisciplinary by intention. Designers, architects, researchers, strategists and others, all working together to create the lasting change we want to see in our communities.

And that’s where (we hope!) you come in.

About the Role

We are searching for a strategic, business-minded marketer and storyteller who thrives in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. This role requires a proactive self-starter who takes ownership of the proposal process from start to finish, ensuring both full compliance with RFP requirements while shaping clear, compelling submissions that reflect our perspective and differentiate our work.

Our team excels because we see every proposal as an opportunity to connect and make an impact. We’re looking for someone who is driven to continually raise the bar and create winning proposals.

Leading an interdisciplinary proposal team made up of senior leaders, the Proposal Specialist pairs strong project management skills with a proven ability to multitask and communicate effectively. A strong writer, strategic editor, and skilled designer, they are responsible for compiling high-quality proposal documents.

Reporting to the Director of Marketing, this role will join a congenial team of marketers, while also working closely with Principals and other firm leaders.

What You’ll Do

• Lead the proposal process from Go/No-Go decision through to submission, ensuring compliance with RFP requirements and strategic alignment
• Coordinate multi-stakeholder proposal teams, including Principals, subject matter experts, and external sub-consultants, managing schedules, roles, and workflows
• Interpret RFP requirements and guide the team to ensure clarity and consistency across the proposal team
• Conduct research to inform win themes, positioning, and overall proposal strategy
• Develop compelling proposal content, including firm storytelling, project sheets, and resumes
• Design and produce polished proposal documents in Adobe InDesign, integrating visuals and narrative effectively
• Support interview strategy and presentations for shortlisted pursuits
• Maintain organized proposal files, content libraries, and tracking systems, while supporting continuous improvement of processes

What You’ll Bring

• Diploma or degree in marketing, business, communications, design, publishing, journalism, humanities, or similar
• Minimum 3+ years in a proposal role with transferable skills
• Strong project management and organizational skills, with the ability to coordinate multiple stakeholders, manage competing priorities, and meet deadlines
• Excellent writing, editing, and storytelling abilities, with a keen eye for detail and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly
• Experience developing proposals, including strategy, compliance, and document production
• Proficiency in Adobe InDesign and experience creating complex, high-quality documents
• Strategic thinking and sound professional judgement, with an understanding of what makes a winning proposal
• Collaborative, adaptable, and self-motivated, with the ability to work independently and within a team

Compensation and Benefits

In addition to a competitive salary, we offer:

• Extended health and dental coverage
• Transportation allowance
• Professional development support
• Paid vacation + firm holidays
• A creative, collaborative and lively studio environment and culture
• Office and firm-wide social events

If you’re excited by the opportunity to contribute your skills and be part of a thoughtful, collaborative team doing meaningful work, we’d love to hear from you. Please send us your resume and cover letter about what you’re passionate about and why hcma feels like the right next step for you, to careers@hcma.ca. Candidates must be legally eligible to work in Canada. We’ll be in touch with those selected for an interview.

Note: a writing sample, or other examples of creative storytelling, may be requested upon interview.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. If you require accommodations or support to apply, please contact careers@hcma.ca or call 604.732.6620, we’re happy to help.