Preconstruction Manager

Pre-Construction Manager

Location:

Exeter (Hybrid Working)

We are looking to appoint an experienced Pre-Construction Manager to join our Regional Building team, supporting projects across the South West. This is a pivotal role responsible for leading the pre-construction phase from early engagement and tender stage through to contract award and mobilisation on site.

You will play a key role in shaping and securing a strong pipeline of work across the region, with real autonomy to influence bid strategy, client engagement, and project outcomes. Working within a collaborative regional business unit, you will engage closely with clients, consultants, and internal teams to deliver high-quality, competitive submissions across sectors including education, healthcare, and custodial.

• Lead the end-to-end tender process, ensuring high-quality technical and commercial submissions.
• Develop and implement winning bid strategies through proactive client engagement and market insight.
• Act as the primary client interface during pre-construction, building strong and lasting relationships.
• Coordinate internal teams (estimating, design, planning, and delivery) to drive a cohesive and competitive bid approach.
• Lead bid settlements and secure internal approvals, ensuring robust commercial positioning.

You will be a commercially aware and technically capable construction professional with a strong track record in pre‑construction.

• Proven experience managing tenders and producing high-quality bid submissions.
• Strong understanding of construction delivery, supported by site experience.
• Experience with in a main contractor environment.
• Planning and programming expertise (Asta preferred) and a good understanding of BIM.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence at all levels.
• Strong written and numerical ability with attention to detail.
• A proactive, adaptable approach and a strong team ethic.

• Competitive salary and car allowance.
• 26 days annual leave, with the option to buy or sell up to 3 days.
• Additional long service leave at 3, 7, and 10 years.
• Private medical insurance (with option to extend to family).
• Life assurance and pension matched up to 8%.
• Enhanced family leave policies.
• 2 volunteering days per year.
• Flexible and agile working (role dependent).
• Employee Assistance Programme, including financial advice.
• Payment of professional membership fees.
• Access to “Perks at Work” discount platform.
• Flexible benefits including critical illness cover, dental insurance, travel insurance, cycle to work scheme, and retail vouchers.

Tilbury Douglas is a leading UK building, infrastructure, engineering and fit‑out company, delivering vital projects across sectors including health, education, highways, justice, defence, aviation, water, and environment.

Our people are at the heart of our success. We are committed to an inclusive culture that encourages innovation and celebrates individual differences. We are proud to hold Investors in Diversity status.

Please note:

we do not hold a sponsorship licence. This role is subject to Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance.

We look forward to receiving your application.