Senior Estimator / Head of Estimating (Designate) Super-Prime Main Contractor | Central London The Business Our client is a highly respected super-prime main contractor delivering some of the finest private residential and mixed-use projects in prime central London and the Home Counties. The business is owner-led, quality-driven, and known for discretion, technical excellence, and long-standing client and supply-chain relationships. As part of the companys continued growth, they are now creating a new in-house estimating function and are seeking an exceptional Senior Estimator to lead this from inception. The Role This is a newly created, senior appointment with direct access to the business owners. The successful candidate will take full responsibility for the timely, accurate, and commercially robust production of tenders, while laying the foundations for a future estimating / pre-construction department. The role is both hands-on and strategic, working closely with the owners, design teams, and commercial team to shape bid strategy, pricing methodology, and risk management. Key Responsibilities Estimating & Tender Leadership Take full ownership of all tender submissions from first principles Produce accurate, detailed cost plans and estimates for super-prime projects Manage tender programmes, ensuring deadlines are consistently met Prepare clear, well-structured tender documentation and presentations Review design information and identify risks, opportunities, and value engineering options Pre-Construction & Collaboration Work closely with the owners to develop bid strategy and pricing approach Liaise with architects, consultants, and design teams during pre-construction Collaborate with the commercial team to ensure alignment on procurement and cost control Support early project decision-making with robust cost and feasibility input Supply Chain & Procurement Engage with a high-quality, established supply chain to obtain competitive and reliable pricing Assess subcontractor returns for accuracy, scope coverage, and risk Contribute to procurement strategy and package structuring Department Development Establish estimating systems, templates, and best-practice procedures Help define the future structure of the estimating / pre-construction function Support the long-term development of the department, including potential future hires Candidate Profile Proven experience as a Senior Estimator within super-prime or high-end construction Strong background in first-principles estimating and complex tendering Experience working closely with owners, directors, or founders Commercially astute with excellent attention to detail Confident communicator able to engage with designers, consultants, and senior stakeholders Ambitious, self-motivated, and comfortable building a function from the ground up Why This Role Is Different New department creation a rare opportunity at this level Direct reporting line to the business owners Genuine influence over how the business tenders and prices work Clear long-term progression into Head of Estimating / Pre-Construction Director Highly respected contractor with exceptional projects and reputation Package Highly competitive salary (commensurate with experience) Performance-related bonus Pension and benefits Long-term career progression and leadership opportunity