Location: Oxfordshire (primarily office-based, with site visits)
The Opportunity
Benfield and Loxley are seeking a highly capable Senior Estimator to lead the commercial pre‑construction function across a diverse portfolio of projects.
This is a senior, high‑impact role reporting directly to the Estimating Director. You will take ownership of the tendering process from early engagement through to submission and contract award, playing a pivotal role in securing work and shaping project outcomes.
Our projects range from complex heritage refurbishments to technically challenging new‑build developments across multiple sectors. This role offers the opportunity to influence projects at concept stage, contribute to bid strategy, and work closely with senior stakeholders both internally and externally.
About Us
Benfield and Loxley are a well‑established, employee‑owned construction company based in Oxford, delivering high‑quality projects across Oxfordshire and the surrounding region.
* Heritage and listed building refurbishments
* New‑build developments (including education and sports facilities)
* Sustainability and carbon reduction projects
We are trusted partners to prestigious Oxford colleges and respected institutions, with a strong track record of repeat business. With a team of c.45 employees—including directly employed trades—we offer a collaborative, agile working environment where individuals can make a meaningful impact.
The Role
As Senior Estimator, you will be responsible for leading and delivering accurate, competitive, and commercially robust tenders. You will act as a key interface between design, commercial, and delivery teams, ensuring alignment from pre‑construction through to handover.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the end‑to‑end tendering process, including first‑stage budgets, competitive tenders, and negotiated bids
* Interpret drawings, specifications, and technical information to produce detailed and accurate cost plans and estimates
* Develop pricing strategies aligned with business objectives and market conditions
* Engage with clients, consultants, and supply chain partners to clarify scope, risks, and opportunities
* Identify and evaluate commercial risks, value engineering opportunities, and alternative solutions
* Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors and suppliers to ensure competitive pricing and reliable delivery
* Contribute to bid presentations and client interviews where required
* Develop and maintain cost databases, benchmarking data, and historical cost intelligence
* Mentor and support junior estimators, promoting consistency, accuracy, and best practice
* Ensure effective handover of secured projects to commercial and delivery teams
Experience & Track Record
* Minimum 5–8 years’ estimating experience within the UK construction industry
* Proven experience operating at Senior Estimator level or ready to step up with clear evidence of leading tenders independently
* Track record of delivering successful tenders across commercial, residential, or mixed‑use projects
* Experience managing tenders
Technical Knowledge
* Strong working knowledge of UK building regulations and construction methodologies
* Solid understanding of procurement routes (traditional, design & build, two‑stage)
* Proven experience working with JCT and/or NEC forms of contract
* Advanced capability in Microsoft Excel, including cost modelling and data analysis
Commercial & Professional Skills
* Strong commercial acumen with the ability to balance risk, opportunity, and competitiveness
* Excellent analytical and numerical skills with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail
* Confident communicator with experience in client‑facing and stakeholder environments
* Ability to manage multiple tenders and deadlines in a fast‑paced environment
Qualifications
* HNC / HND / Degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or a related discipline
Other
* Full UK driving licence
* Chartered status (e.g. MRICS, MCIOB) or working towards accreditation
* Experience across both pre‑construction and post‑contract/commercial delivery stages
* Exposure to heritage, listed buildings, or technically complex refurbishment projects
* Knowledge of BIM, digital take‑off tools, or modern methods of construction (MMC)
* Experience contributing to bid strategy and win themes
* Experience in mentoring or developing junior team members
Why Join Benfield and Loxley?
* Employee‑owned business with a strong, people‑first culture
* Opportunity to work on high‑profile, meaningful projects in Oxford and the surrounding area
* High level of autonomy and influence within a senior role
* Strong pipeline of repeat business and long‑term client relationships
* Collaborative environment with direct access to senior decision‑makers
* Real opportunity to shape projects from concept through to delivery
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