Senior Estimator
Establishing and Leading a Formal Estimating Department
Location: London
Salary £80 - £100K DOE
The Opportunity
A senior-level opportunity for an experienced Estimator to establish and lead a formal Estimating Department within a well-established construction business.
This role represents a strategic shift from director-led estimating to a structured, scalable function. The successful candidate will take ownership of building systems, driving tender performance, and shaping the commercial future of the business.
This is a leadership position with a clear pathway into senior management.
The Role
Department Leadership
* Design and implement a structured Estimating Department
* Develop standardised systems, procedures, and controls
* Introduce modern estimating tools and data-led methodologies
* Create scalable processes to support business growth
Tendering and Commercial Delivery
* Prepare accurate and competitive cost estimates and tender submissions
* Analyse drawings, specifications, and contract documentation
* Identify commercial risks and value-engineering opportunities
* Ensure tenders align with profitability targets and business strategy
* Manage pricing strategies and bid submissions end-to-end
Strategic Contribution
* Improve tender success rates and margin performance
* Provide commercial insight to directors and senior leadership
* Support market analysis, frameworks, and new business opportunities
* Establish benchmarking and performance tracking metrics
Stakeholder Engagement
* Work closely with directors, project managers, and business development teams
* Build strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and subcontractors
* Lead negotiations and secure competitive supply chain pricing
* Present structured reports and recommendations to senior leadership
Candidate Profile
Experience and Expertise
* Proven track record in construction estimating at a senior level
* Experience across refurbishment, public sector, or mixed-use projects desirable
* Strong understanding of construction methodology, contracts, and compliance
* Proficient in estimating software and digital systems
* Strong commercial acumen and analytical capability
Leadership and Personal Qualities
* Capable of building and leading a new function
* Hands-on approach combined with strategic thinking
* Commercially focused and performance-driven
* Confident communicator with client-facing experience
* Ambition to progress into senior leadership
Career Development
* Opportunity to build and shape a core business function
* Direct influence on commercial strategy and business performance
* Clear progression route into senior management
* Scope to develop and mentor a growing estimating team
This is a rare opportunity to move beyond a traditional estimating role and take ownership of building a department that will define the next stage of business growth.
Must be present in the UK, no sponsorship
No hybrid work ( 5 days in office non negotiable)