bid-manager

JAM Recruitment Ltd; Exeter; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Generous benefits package

Private healthcare

Company pension

Career progression opportunities

Job summary

A well-established construction company in Exeter is seeking an experienced Bid Manager to oversee pre-construction cost planning and estimating. You will be responsible for developing competitive tenders and managing commercial risks while collaborating with clients and project teams. The role offers a competitive salary, private healthcare, and strong career progression opportunities in a supportive work environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in pre‑construction, estimating, or commercial management.
• Background in construction projects, preferably refurbishment.
• Knowledge of construction contracts, including JCT forms.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings accurately.
• Excellent numerical, analytical and negotiation skills.
• Ability to interpret drawings/specifications and manage procurement.

Responsibilities

• Manage budget and cost planning from concept stage through contract award.
• Develop detailed cost estimates and procurement strategies.
• Review drawings and specifications for accurate pricing.
• Identify potential commercial risks and opportunities.
• Identify commercial risks and opportunities for value engineering.
• Coordinate procurement with subcontractors to secure competitive pricing.
• Facilitate client meetings and pre/post-tender discussions.
• Ensure smooth handover of awarded tenders to delivery teams.

Skills

Pre‑construction experience

Estimating principles knowledge

Strong communication skills

Analytical skills

Negotiation skills

Technical drawing interpretation

Excel proficiency

CSCS or safety certification

Education

Degree in Quantity Surveying

Construction Management degree or equivalent experience

Tools

ConQuest

Causeway

Microsoft Office

Job description

Bid Manager – Exeter

Construction

I am pleased to be working on behalf of a well-established construction company operating in a business that delivers fast‑paced, high‑quality projects, predominantly within the refurbishment sector for a Bid Manager to join the team. With a streamlined structure and a hands‑on leadership team, they are known for agile decision‑making, strong commercial controls, and a collaborative approach from concept through to completion. Due to continued growth, they are now looking to appoint an experienced and ambitious Bid Manager to join their pre‑construction team.

The Role

As Bid Manager, you will play a pivotal role during the pre‑construction phase, taking ownership of cost planning, estimating, and commercial input across multiple tenders. Working closely with senior commercial leadership, design teams, and delivery teams, you will help ensure tenders are competitive, commercially robust, and aligned with client expectations. This role offers exposure to high‑end projects and the opportunity to influence key decisions from early feasibility through to contract award.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage budget and cost planning from concept stage through contract award.
• Develop detailed cost estimates and tender‑specific procurement strategies.
• Review drawings, specifications, and contract documents to produce accurate pricing.
• Engage with clients, consultants, and supply chain partners to confirm project scope and requirements.
• Identify potential commercial risks and opportunities for value engineering.
• Support design development to ensure projects stay within budget.
• Direct procurement activities and coordinate with subcontractors and suppliers for competitive pricing.
• Participate in client meetings, presentations, and pre‑ and post‑tender discussions.
• Ensure smooth handover of awarded tenders to delivery teams for project continuity.
• Keep abreast of market trends, material prices, and labor rates to inform pricing decisions.

Teamwork & Guidance

• Work closely with clients, architects, and designers to align budgets with design intent
• Build strong working relationships to ensure client expectations are met and exceeded
• Collaborate with project and site teams to integrate financial controls into delivery
• Mentor and support junior commercial team members
• Assist with the ongoing development and improvement of commercial templates and processes

Skills & Experience

• Experience in pre‑construction, estimating, or commercial management
• Background in construction projects preferably refurbishment
• Strong understanding of estimating principles, tendering processes, and commercial strategy
• Knowledge of construction contracts, including JCT forms
• Excellent numerical, analytical, communication, and negotiation skills
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and specifications accurately
• Proficiency in Excel, Microsoft Office, and project management or commercial software
• Degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or similar (or equivalent experience)
• Experience with estimating software such as ConQuest, Causeway, or similar
• CSCS or relevant health & safety certifications

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary, generous benefits package
• Private healthcare
• Company pension
• Supportive, collaborative working environment
• Strong long‑term career progression and professional development opportunities

Should you wish to know more about this rare opportunity, please contact Nicky Harris, RGB Recruitment Exeter.