Bid Manager

Bid Manager
Exeter
Construction
I am delighted to be partnering with a well-established construction company renowned for delivering fast-paced, high-quality projects, primarily within the refurbishment sector. With a streamlined structure and a hands-on leadership team, the business is recognised for its agile decision-making, robust commercial controls, and collaborative approach from concept through to completion.
Following a period of sustained growth, they are now seeking to appoint an experienced and ambitious Bid Manager to join their dynamic pre-construction team, offering an excellent opportunity to play a key role in shaping the company’s continued success.

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