About the Company
The Lanes Group is the UK’s largest independent provider of water and wastewater solutions and services, with a half‑billion‑pound turnover. Since 1992 it has expanded through investment in a fleet, plant and equipment, and 4,000+ staff. The group also delivers end‑to‑end drainage solutions through depots across the UK, from Aberdeen to Plymouth.
About the Role
As Head of Estimating you will play a strategic leadership role, overseeing and developing a team of technical estimators responsible for site visits, asset tagging, condition reporting and producing technical quotations. You will ensure the delivery of accurate, competitive and commercially viable bids and cost plans for a wide variety of projects. In addition you will shape estimating strategy, collaborate with internal teams and external partners, and drive consistency and innovation across all estimating activity.
Responsibilities
* Lead, manage and develop a high‑performing national estimating team.
* Provide mentorship, training and performance management to ensure departmental success.
* Promote a culture of accuracy, accountability and continuous improvement.
* Oversee the preparation, validation and submission of high‑quality estimates and competitive bids.
* Review and analyse tender documentation for completeness and risk.
* Support quantity take‑offs and apply first‑principles estimating where applicable.
* Independently review and verify pricing submitted by others, identifying areas for improvement.
* Work closely with procurement to secure market‑competitive quotes and identify cost‑saving opportunities.
* Collaborate with operational teams to develop bid strategies and methodologies aligned with project requirements.
* Participate in project reviews, handovers and post‑bid assessments to capture lessons learned.
* Develop strong relationships with clients, consultants and subcontractors.
* Contribute to contract negotiations and ensure commercial risks are identified and mitigated.
* Lead supplier feedback processes and work closely with procurement to build a robust and reliable supply chain.
* Drive improvements in estimating tools, templates and systems, including the development of cost libraries.
* Ensure all estimating activities comply with company policies, health and safety regulations and management systems.
* Assist in refining internal procedures for estimating and procurement processes.
Qualifications & Experience
* Proven experience in a senior estimating role within utilities or a similar environment.
* Strong understanding of asset lifecycle, condition reporting and technical surveying.
* Track record of delivering multidisciplinary infrastructure tenders from conception to completion.
* Proficiency in estimating software, cost planning tools and Microsoft Office Suite.
* Experience working with national frameworks and large‑scale projects.
What You Will Get in Return
In joining the Lanes Group you will be part of a workplace culture that prioritises well‑being, growth and safety. Through continuous training, professional development opportunities and a supportive environment that values every individual’s contribution, you will be empowered to deliver integrity, collaboration and inclusivity.
What We Offer
* 24 days holiday plus bank holidays
* Death in service pension
* Company car or car allowance
Job Details
Seniority level: Director
Employment type: Full‑time
Job function: Other
Industries: Construction
Additional Information
Internal and external applicants are welcome. Internal candidates currently employed within a division of the Lanes Group must submit an internal application. The Lanes Group plc comprises a range of service providers, with subsidiaries such as Lanes Drainage Services, Lanes I, SUS, Clearflow and AQS.
We are an equal‑opportunity employer and welcome applications from under‑represented members of the community.
Strictly no agencies please.
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