Business Development Fundamentals (YP Series)

October 7, 2026 | 8:30am to 10:30am

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT IS BIGGER THAN JUST NETWORKING & SALES

Through this Young Professionals session, learn what business development really means - from how proposals come together and projects are won to netowrking that really works - and why understanding the process matters at every stage of your career!

Also, hear all the ways marking & business development work hand in hand. 

Instructor: 

Eric Gradert, MBA, PMP, LEED - Shook Construction

Director of Business Development, Great Lakes Region

Eric Gradert is a construction and project management professional with more than 16 years of experience leading complex building, renovation, and infrastructure initiatives across the education, public, healthcare, industrial, and civic sectors. A graduate of The Ohio State University with a degree in Construction Systems Management and an MBA from Youngstown State University, Eric has built his career through progressive leadership roles in project engineering, field supervision, project management, and strategic client engagement. He is recognized for his expertise in collaborative project delivery methods, including CMr and Design-Build, and for guiding owners through delivery strategy selection, planning, and execution. His portfolio includes major capital improvement programs and new construction projects throughout Northeast Ohio.

Eric is also an active community leader, serving on the Board of Directors for Project NICU, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families with children in neonatal intensive care units. Known for his collaborative leadership style, strong communication skills, and commitment to safety and quality, he is passionate about helping teams successfully deliver impactful projects that strengthen both organizations and the communities they serve.

Leslie Panfil, CPSM - Shook Construction 

Regional Marketing Manager

Leslie Panfil is an experienced marketing and business development professional with more than a decade of experience in the A/E/C industry. She specializes in strategic marketing, proposal development, business development, and positioning organizations for growth. Leslie holds a degree in Rhetoric from Kent State University and is a Certified Professional Services Marketer (CPSM). She is also a former President of the Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS) Northeast Ohio Chapter.

Known for bringing together creativity, strategy, and a deep understanding of the client journey, Leslie helps organizations tell their story, strengthen relationships, and win work. She is particularly passionate about the intersection of marketing and business development—and how the two functions can work together as a powerful engine for growth.