Bid Manager, Engineering

Job Description

Swindon, UK

Construction / Civil Engineering

We’re looking for a high‑calibre Bid Manager to lead complex, high‑value tenders across the UK construction and civil engineering markets. This is a pivotal role within the work‑winning function, responsible for shaping winning strategies, driving team performance, and securing profitable pipeline aligned to business targets.

You’ll operate at the centre of multi‑disciplinary bid teams, influencing senior stakeholders, supply chain partners, and clients to position the business for success.

• Own the end‑to‑end bid process on major tenders, from qualification through to submission and client interview
• Develop and execute compelling win strategies that clearly differentiate the business
• Challenge and refine bid approaches to maximise probability of success (PWIN)
• Lead bid settlement and key decision‑making forums

• Lead and energise cross‑functional bid teams (commercial, technical, operational, planning, supply chain)
• Set clear direction, drive accountability, and maintain momentum against demanding deadlines
• Act as the focal point for all bid‑related activity, ensuring alignment across internal and external stakeholders

• Shape tender commercial strategies to ensure competitive and sustainable pricing
• Work closely with Commercial leads to protect margin and manage risk exposure
• Oversee bid budgets and ensure efficient use of resources

• Build strong, credible relationships with clients, consultants, and delivery partners
• Lead client‑facing engagements including presentations, interviews, and post‑tender negotiations
• Manage communication strategies with third parties, including joint ventures and key suppliers

• Ensure robust, deliverable solutions are developed in collaboration with engineering and operational teams
• Oversee design input and value engineering to optimise bid solutions
• Align proposals with delivery strategy and operational capability

• Ensure full compliance with internal governance, approvals, and work‑winning procedures
• Lead risk and opportunity management, driving clear mitigation strategies
• Maintain high‑quality, audit‑ready bid documentation

• Lead structured handover to delivery teams for successful bids
• Capture lessons learned and embed continuous improvement into future tenders

• Proven track record of leading bids within a Tier 1 or major contractor environment
• Strong understanding of UK construction and civil engineering markets
• Commercially astute, with deep knowledge of contract forms (e.g. NEC, JCT)
• Confident operating at senior level, influencing both internal leadership and external clients
• Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills
• Resilient, organised, and able to perform under pressure in fast‑paced bid environments

• Opportunity to lead high‑profile, complex tenders across major infrastructure and construction projects
• Visible role with direct impact on business growth and strategic pipeline
• Collaborative, high‑performance work‑winning environment