Bid Manager

First Response Group; Milton Keynes; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

First Response Group in Milton Keynes seeks a Bid Manager to lead end-to-end bid processes across public and private sectors, from qualification to submission and post-bid review.

You will partner with Sales, coach colleagues, craft content for PQQs, RFIs, RFPs, ITTs and Frameworks, and manage risks while ensuring governance and high-quality proposals.

This role requires strategic thinking, strong collaboration, and a proactive approach to maintain a centralised knowledge base.

Qualifications

• Degree or equivalent professional experience required.
• APMP or equivalent certification preferred.
• Experience managing UK bids across public and private sectors.
• Knowledge of security and facilities management sectors beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end bid process from qualification to submission and post-bid review.
• Partner with Sales to ensure opportunities align with strategic goals.
• Coach colleagues in bid activities and best practices.
• Identify bid risks and implement mitigation strategies.
• Ensure governance procedures with approvals at each stage.
• Draft content for PQQs, RFIs, RFPs, ITTs and Frameworks and maintain a central knowledge base.

Skills

Stakeholder management

Commercial awareness

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Time management

Influencing skills

Social Value

Resilience

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

APMP certification

Tools

Proposal management software

Microsoft Office

CRM platforms

Job description

At the heart of our growth strategy, the Bid Management Team drives success by securing new and repeat business across both public and private sectors. From early engagement to contract award, the team ensures every opportunity is strategically pursued and expertly delivered.

Our Bid Managers are dynamic leaders who steer complex bids through the full lifecycle. They craft persuasive, high-impact content for PQQs, RFIs, RFPs, ITTs, and Frameworks, while continuously enriching our knowledge base. With a sharp focus on collaboration and innovation, they lead cross-functional teams to produce standout proposals that clearly position FRG as the partner of choice.

First Response Group is not just a workplace. It is a vibrant community wherepassionfuels our excellence,integrityguides our conduct,empowermentshapes our successes, and a sense ofcommunitybinds us together.We are pioneers in our field, and we seek to inspire every person to reach their maximum potential.

We distinguish ourselves through the integration of cutting edge technology, a commitment to employee development, and a culture rooted in inclusivity and positivity. At FRG, every team member's contribution is valued, and collective success is celebrated

About the Role

• Lead the end-to-end bid process, managing each opportunity from initial qualification through to final submission and post-bid review.
• Partner with Sales teamsto ensure all opportunities are thoroughly qualified and aligned with strategic business goals.
• Coach and support colleaguesin day-to-day bid activities, programmes, and initiatives—promoting best practices and enhancing submission quality.
• Identify and assess bid risks, providing clear reporting and implementing mitigation strategies where appropriate.
• Ensure compliance with internal governance procedures, securing necessary approvals and sign-offs at each stage of the bid lifecycle.
• Draft and develop high-quality contentfor PQQs, RFIs, RFPs, ITTs, and Frameworks, while maintaining and improving a centralised, reusable knowledge base.

Requirements

PERSONAL SKILLS

• Intellectually agile and quick-thinking, with the ability to engage, influence, and manage stakeholders at all levels across the business.
• Strong commercial awareness and sound financial judgment.
• Committed to delivering work with accuracy, professionalism, and attention to detail.
• Resilient under pressure, with a proven ability to meet tight and demanding deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a persuasive and confident style.
• Effective time management and multitasking abilities, with a focus on resource optimization.
• Skilled in influencing and persuading others through subject matter expertise.
• Solid understanding of Social Value principles in the context of public sector contracts

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Demonstrated success in managing both multi-service and single-product bids across private and public sector environments.
• Over 3 years of hands-on experience in UK bid management.
• In-depth knowledge of bid lifecycle processes and implementation of bidding best practices.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and CRM platforms.

EXPERIENCE / QUALIFICATIONS

• Educated to degree level or equivalent professional experience.
• Holder of APMP or other recognised industry certifications.
• Familiarity with security and facilities management sectors.
• Working knowledge of proposal management software