Proposals Manager

BDO South Africa; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 700 000; Full time

Job summary

A professional services firm in South Africa seeks a proposal manager to lead the proposal and tender processes. Candidates should have at least 5 years of experience in managing complex proposals, strong writing and editing skills, and proficiency in MS Office and Adobe InDesign. The role involves extensive collaboration with stakeholders and a commitment to upholding high standards in proposal submissions. This position offers an opportunity to contribute to impactful client proposals and enhance proposal quality through continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years in proposal or bid management in professional services.
• Proven track record managing complex proposal processes from start to end.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and proofreading skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full proposals and tender process.
• Prepare presentation materials for pitches and follow-ups.
• Compile, edit and review bid documents and submissions.

Skills

Proposal management best practices

Advanced proposal writing and editing skills

Stakeholder engagement skills

Document design principles

Project management skills

Tools

MS Office (Word, PowerPoint)

Adobe InDesign

Job description

We’re looking for a creative, analytical, and driven individual who enjoys connecting strategy, client needs, and technical excellence to deliver high-impact proposals.

Main Duties Responsibilities

• Provide training to the business on proposal templates and best practices.
• Attend sector meetings to identify needs for sector-specific credentials, templates, and value-add materials.
• Create and design credential documents and marketing collateral for sectors and service lines.
• Update and maintain standard proposal wording in line with legal and brand guidelines.
• Manage the full proposals and tender process.
• Log client and proposal activity in internal systems such as Core and the Proposals App.
• Liaise with marketing and design teams to ensure timely and high-quality deliverables.
• Lead kick-off meetings with partners and managers to:
  • Gather necessary information.
  • Set deadlines and coordinate inputs.
  • Ensure submissions are compelling, compliant, and aligned to client needs.
• Conduct research on clients to advise on differentiators, design, and proposal positioning.
• Challenge internal stakeholders to improve proposal content and design for maximum impact.
• Prepare presentation materials for pitches and post-submission follow-ups.
• Ensure tender submissions meet all compliance and client requirements.
• Compile, edit, and review bid documents and related submissions.
• Monitor proposal and tender deadlines to ensure timely delivery.
• Track and follow up on submission outcomes, gather feedback, and share learnings with the business.
• Maintain a central electronic library of all proposals, tenders, and related documents.
• Collaborate with Brand, Marketing, and Communications to create compelling proposal documents.
• Uphold and promote the firm’s values and contribute positively to the internal culture.
• Engage in continuous professional development through learning platforms and courses.
• Manage junior staff on their development within BD.

Experience

• Minimum 5 years of experience in proposal, tender, or bid management, preferably in a professional services environment.
• Proven track record in managing complex proposal processes from initiation to delivery.
• Experience collaborating with senior stakeholders, partners, and creative teams.
• Familiarity with legal, compliance, and procurement documentation processes.

Requirements

• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously.
• Strong knowledge of proposal management best practices.
• Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, PowerPoint) and Adobe InDesign.
• Understanding of branding, marketing, and document design principles.
• Strong attention to detail and quality control.
• Effective communication and negotiation skills.
• Ability to challenge content and design constructively to improve outputs.
• Knowledge of CRM systems and proposal tracking tools.
• Willingness to work flexible hours to meet proposal deadlines.

Knowledge and Skills Competencies

• Advanced proposal writing and editing skills.
• Strong project management and organizational abilities.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to translate technical information into client-friendly, value-driven messaging.
• High proficiency in document formatting, design collaboration, and layout aesthetics.
• Strong research and analytical abilities.
• Consistent delivery of high-quality work under tight deadlines.

Behavioural Competencies

• Collaboration: Works well with cross-functional teams, sharing information and supporting colleagues.
• Client-Centric Approach: Understands and prioritizes the needs of clients in all proposal submissions.
• Accountability: Takes ownership of the proposal process from start to finish.
• Innovation: Proactively identifies ways to improve the proposal process and enhance quality.
• Resilience: Performs effectively under pressure.
• Attention to Detail: Maintains a high standard of accuracy and professionalism.
• Adaptability: Responds positively to changing requirements and business needs.
• Integrity: Operates with honesty and transparency, upholding the firm’s values.
• Influence: Confidently challenges content and design for continuous improvement.
• Continuous Learning: Proactively seeks opportunities for growth and development.