Job Title: Bid Manager
Location: Doncaster
Salary: GBP45,000 - GBP50,000 depending on experience
Job Type: Full Time, Permanent
Introduction
At DB Cargo UK, we don't just move goods - we keep the UK moving and drive the future of sustainable logistics. As a Bid Manager, you'll play a key role in shaping that future. You'll lead the development of high‑quality tender submissions that win new business, strengthen customer partnerships, and support the shift to cleaner, greener transport across the UK.
You’ll be at the heart of our growth strategy, bringing together expertise from across the organisation to create compelling, customer‑focused solutions that showcase the strengths of rail, the innovation within DB Cargo UK and the value we deliver every day.
What will you be doing?
* You’ll take ownership of the end‑to‑end bid process, ensuring every submission is well structured, compliant, and positioned to win.
* You will lead bids across markets including intermodal, automotive, steel, aggregates, energy and specialist flows, translating complex technical and operational detail into clear, engaging proposals.
* Managing the full bid lifecycle, you’ll ensure submissions are delivered on time and to a high standard, while also enhancing the overall quality and presentation of our proposals.
* Working closely with stakeholders across the business, you’ll run value proposition and win strategy sessions, encouraging collaboration and innovative thinking to strengthen our approach.
* You’ll also lead capture activity ahead of tenders – shaping solutions, analysing competitors, testing pricing strategies, and positioning DB Cargo UK for success.
* Alongside this, you’ll track milestones, manage actions and clarifications, and facilitate cross‑functional reviews to keep bids progressing smoothly.
* You’ll use our CRM system to manage opportunities and support contractual processes, while also contributing to the continuous improvement of our bid tools, processes and ways of working.
What are we looking for?
* Someone who is curious, collaborative, and motivated by delivering high‑quality work that wins business and moves the industry forward.
* Experience leading bids in complex, multi‑stakeholder environments, with the ability to produce clear, persuasive content that resonates with customers.
* Confidence engaging and influencing senior stakeholders, and comfort presenting ideas and guiding discussions.
* Highly organized, able to manage multiple bids, timelines and priorities without losing focus, maintaining a calm and proactive approach under pressure.
* Strong Microsoft Word and PowerPoint skills, with a keen eye for detail and presentation.
* Experience within rail, transport, logistics or a similar operational environment is beneficial, though not essential.
* Formal bid training such as APMP or Shipley would be an advantage.
What matters to you?
* Salary between GBP45,000 - GBP50,000 depending on experience, based on a 37 hour working week.
* Bonus Scheme – non‑contractual, dependent on business and personal performance up to 10 %.
* 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
* Hybrid working between our locations and your home – mutually agreeable.
* Defined Contribution pension scheme with generous employer contribution – up to 10 % employer contribution.
* Free on‑site parking.
* EV charging at selected sites.
* Health Cash Plan available.
* Cycle to work Scheme.
* Charge and Go Scheme.
* Manager‑led recognition programme for employees who live our values.
* Access to DB Learning world.
* Annual pay reviews.
* Support for continuous professional development through specialist training programmes, apprenticeships, development plans, courses and qualifications.
* Access to our employee benefits portal for discounts and wellbeing content.
* Employee Assistance Programme for health and wellbeing.
Candidate considerations
* Candidates with experience of: Proposal Manager, Tender Manager, Bid & Proposal Manager, Capture Manager, Commercial Manager, Estimating Manager, Contracts Manager, Procurement Manager, Business Development Manager, Head of Bids.
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