Bid Manager
Swindon, UK
Construction / Civil Engineering
The Role
We’re looking for a high-calibre Bid Manager to lead complex, high-value tenders across the UK construction and civil engineering markets. This is a pivotal role within the work-winning function, responsible for shaping winning strategies, driving team performance, and securing profitable pipeline aligned to business targets.
You’ll operate at the centre of multi-disciplinary bid teams, influencing senior stakeholders, supply chain partners, and clients to position the business for success.
Key Responsibilities
Winning Work
Own the end-to-end bid process on major tenders, from qualification through to submission and client interview
Develop and execute compelling win strategies that clearly differentiate the business
Challenge and refine bid approaches to maximise probability of success (PWIN)
Lead bid settlement and key decision-making forums
Leadership & Coordination
Lead and energise cross-functional bid teams (commercial, technical, operational, planning, supply chain)
Set clear direction, drive accountability, and maintain momentum against demanding deadlines
Act as the focal point for all bid-related activity, ensuring alignment across internal and external stakeholders
Commercial Focus
Shape tender commercial strategies to ensure competitive and sustainable pricing
Work closely with Commercial leads to protect margin and manage risk exposure
Oversee bid budgets and ensure efficient use of resources
Client & Stakeholder Engagement
Build strong, credible relationships with clients, consultants, and delivery partners
Lead client-facing engagements including presentations, interviews, and post-tender negotiations
Manage communication strategies with third parties, including joint ventures and key suppliers
Technical & Delivery Integration
Ensure robust, deliverable solutions are developed in collaboration with engineering and operational teams
Oversee design input and value engineering to optimise bid solutions
Align proposals with delivery strategy and operational capability
Governance & Risk
Ensure full compliance with internal governance, approvals, and work-winning procedures
Lead risk and opportunity management, driving clear mitigation strategies
Maintain high-quality, audit-ready bid documentation
Handover & Feedback
Lead structured handover to delivery teams for successful bids
Capture lessons learned and embed continuous improvement into future tenders
About You
Proven track record of leading bids within a Tier 1 or major contractor environment
Strong understanding of UK construction and civil engineering markets
Commercially astute, with deep knowledge of contract forms (e.g. NEC, JCT)
Confident operating at senior level, influencing both internal leadership and external clients
Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills
Resilient, organised, and able to perform under pressure in fast-paced bid environments
Why This Role
Opportunity to lead high-profile, complex tenders across major infrastructure and construction projects
Visible role with direct impact on business growth and strategic pipeline
Collaborative, high-performance work-winning environment