Pre-Construction Manager - D&B

JLL; Greater London; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Car allowance

28 days leave plus bank holidays

Private medical insurance

Life assurance

Wellbeing support

Pension scheme

Professional development

Clear progression opportunities

Job summary

Tetris UK, a part of JLL, is seeking a Pre-Construction Manager to lead cost planning, tender strategy, and risk management for complex fit-out projects in London. You will guide bid strategy, manage suppliers, and collaborate with design, commercial, and delivery teams.

The role requires 6+ years’ pre-construction experience, strong MEP knowledge, and proficiency with BIM take-offs. Excellent communication and a commercial mindset are essential.

Qualifications

• 6+ years’ experience in pre-construction, estimating, or commercial management within the London fit-out sector.
• Proven bids on Cat A/Cat B projects and a strong understanding of MEP discussions.
• Knowledge of JCT, NEC, and Design & Build contracts.
• Familiarity with BIM-based take-offs and digital workflows.

Responsibilities

• Lead cost planning, tender strategy, and submissions for fit-out projects (£1m–£5m+).
• Review architectural, MEP, and contract docs and develop cost strategies.
• Produce cost breakdowns using Excel and estimating software; manage budgets.
• Balance competitiveness with margin protection and advise on risk.
• Coordinate supply chain, subcontractor enquiries, and bid interviews.

Skills

Communication

Analytical skills

Attention to detail

Time management

Commercial awareness

Education

MCIOB accreditation

RICS accreditation

Tools

BIM software

Job description

About Tetris / JLL

Tetris UK is a leading design and build fit-out contractor within JLL, delivering high-quality interior solutions with over 20 years' experience. We complete complex Cat A and Cat B projects for blue-chip clients across London and the South East, with project values typically £1m to £12m.

Pre-Construction Manager – Tetris UK

About Tetris / JLL

Tetris UK is a leading design and build fit-out contractor within JLL, delivering high-quality interior solutions with over 20 years' experience. We complete complex Cat A and Cat B projects for blue-chip clients across London and the South East, with project values typically £1m to £12m.

Role Overview

The Pre-Construction Manager will lead pre-construction phases of complex fit-out projects, focusing on cost planning, tender strategy, supply chain engagement, and risk management. Working with senior stakeholders, you'll influence bid strategy and support securing profitable new work.

Key Responsibilities

Tender Management & Cost Planning

• Lead cost plans, estimates, and tender submissions for fit-out projects (£1m–£5m+)
• Review architectural, MEP, and contract documentation
• Develop cost strategies aligned with client briefs
• Produce cost breakdowns using Excel and estimating software
• Balance competitiveness with margin protection
• Maintain budgets and prepare go/no-go assessments

Supply Chain & Subcontractor Management

• Manage subcontractor enquiries across all trades
• Assess tender returns and lead contractor interviews
• Negotiate terms for best value and risk reduction
• Develop supply chain relationships and support preferred supplier lists

Pre-Construction Planning & Strategy

• Develop programmes, procurement schedules, and design timelines
• Identify long-lead items and specialist packages
• Prepare logistics strategies for constrained London sites
• Coordinate RFI processes and integrate sustainability requirements

Client & Stakeholder Engagement

• Present cost information and tender submissions to clients
• Attend client interviews and bid presentations
• Provide buildability, cost, and value engineering advice
• Coordinate with design, commercial, and delivery teams

Leadership & Team Management

• Mentor estimators and junior commercial staff
• Allocate resources across multiple bids
• Promote consistent processes and contribute to commercial strategy

Experience & Qualifications

• 6+ years’ experience in pre-construction, estimating, or commercial management within the London fit-out sector
• Proven experience delivering successful bids on Cat A and Cat B projects
• Working knowledge of MEP systems and ability to discuss them at a high level with clients
• Track record on projects typically £1m–£5m+, with exposure to complex refurbishments and live environments
• Knowledge of JCT, NEC, and Design & Build contracts
• Familiarity with BIM-based take-offs and digital workflows preferred
• Strong understanding of commercial risk and cost control
• Understanding of modern construction techniques, including modular and prefabrication
• MCIOB, RICS, or similar professional accreditation preferred

Personal Attributes

• Clear and confident communicator
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Detail-oriented with a structured approach
• Able to work under pressure and manage competing deadlines
• Collaborative and professional working style
• Commercially astute and pragmatic

What We Offer

• Competitive salary package
• Car allowance
• 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays (with option to purchase additional days)
• Private medical insurance, life assurance, and wellbeing support
• Generous pension scheme
• Ongoing professional development and support for professional memberships
• Clear progression opportunities within JLL and Tetris UK
• Central London office with excellent transport links