Emma Ericksen
Wilmington
Summary
Dynamic Proposal and Pursuit Specialist with a proven track record in leading comprehensive strategies for CMAR and Design-Build projects across healthcare, commercial, and public sectors. Manages over 30 pursuits annually, achieving a win rate of approximately 30% through expert oversight of content development, team coordination, and interview preparation. Demonstrated expertise in implementing CRM systems enhances pipeline visibility and fosters strong client engagement through strategic business development initiatives and compelling technical storytelling. Committed to driving success through innovative approaches and collaborative teamwork in high-stakes environments.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Proposal Specialist
Thomas Construction Group
Wilmington, NC
01.2025 - Current
- Lead the full pursuit lifecycle from early-stage opportunity identification through contract award, managing 30+ proposals annually with a ~30% win rate
- Own all proposal content development, translating complex construction processes into strategic, client-focused narratives
- Drive pursuit strategy for CMAR and Design-Build projects across healthcare, commercial, and public sectors
- Implement and manage firm-wide CRM using Monday.com, improving pipeline visibility and communication
- Led implementation of OpenAsset, streamlining proposal development and access to project data
- Serve as liaison between business development, operations, and leadership teams
- Participate in pre-bid meetings, events, and client outreach
- Lead interview strategy and coach project teams and superintendents
Marketing Coordinator
Thomas Construction Group
Wilmington, NC
01.2023 - 01.2025
- Built company’s first marketing department, establishing brand standards and processes
- Executed campaigns across social, email, paid ads, and video
- Led first paid campaign focused on Target Value Delivery (TVD)
- Directed year-long 20th anniversary campaign
- Created brand guidelines and templates
- Launched and grew Facebook and Instagram from scratch
- Designed materials using Adobe Creative Suite
- Mentored interns and junior staff
Marketing & Engagement Manager
Wilmington Chamber of Commerce
Wilmington, NC
01.2021 - 01.2023
- Led campaigns and social growth (Facebook +51%, Instagram +56%, LinkedIn +92%)
- Built relationships with 1,000+ businesses and exceeded sales targets
- Developed segmentation strategies and improved engagement
Account Coordinator
Pioneer Strategies
01.2020 - 01.2021
- Managed multiple client accounts and campaigns
- Created social media, email campaigns, and websites
- Produced analytics reports and tracked KPIs
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Communication Studies
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Skills
- Pursuit Strategy & Proposal Management
- CMAR & Design-Build Delivery
- Business Development Integration
- CRM Implementation & Pipeline Management
- AEC Marketing & Brand Development
- Interview Strategy & Team Coaching
- Technical Writing & Content Development
- Cross-Functional Leadership & Mentorship
- Adobe Creative Suite
- Microsoft office
- Deadline oriented
- Team leadership
Accomplishments
- Managed 30+ proposals annually across multiple sectors
- Maintained ~30% win rate on competitive pursuits
- Built and implemented company-wide CRM and pursuit tracking system
- Established marketing department infrastructure and brand standards
- Led firm-wide campaign initiatives including paid advertising and anniversary campaign
Affiliations
- SMPS Research Triangle
- WILMA Leadership Institute, 2025
- Leadership Wilmington, 2023
- 2023 WILMA Magazine Women to Watch Award – Rising Star Finalist
- Port City Young Professionals
June 2020 - Present - StepUp Wilmington Board of Young Professionals
September 2021 – August 2022 - ACCE Certificate in Chamber Management - Membership and Revenue Development
Timeline
Proposal Specialist
Thomas Construction Group
01.2025 - Current
Marketing Coordinator
Thomas Construction Group
01.2023 - 01.2025
Marketing & Engagement Manager
Wilmington Chamber of Commerce
01.2021 - 01.2023
Account Coordinator
Pioneer Strategies
01.2020 - 01.2021
Bachelor of Arts - Communication Studies
University of North Carolina Wilmington