Bid / Preconstruction Design Manager

Position               Bid / Preconstruction Design Manager

Location               London (Hybrid)

Salary                    £400 - £470 per day

Contract               Freelance, Ongoing

We’re working with a leading UK main contractor specialising in high-quality fit-out and refurbishment across commercial, public sector, and corporate environments.

Due to a strong pipeline of work in London, they are looking to appoint an experienced Bid / Preconstruction Design Manager on a freelance basis to support their growing preconstruction team.

This is an excellent opportunity to play a key role in winning and shaping complex interior and refurbishment projects from the very earliest stages.

Role Overview

As Bid / Precon Design Manager, you will take ownership of the design workstream during tender stage, ensuring robust, buildable and commercially aligned solutions are developed to support winning bids.

You will be partnering with senior stakeholders and multi-disciplinary teams to secure strategically important projects across a mixture of Commercial and Government Frameworks.

The role is based out of London with very limited travel, and no overnight stays.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate the design process during preconstruction / tender stages
• Manage external architectural and engineering consultants
• Develop innovative and value-engineered design solutions
• Support the production of technical submission content
• Review employer’s requirements and identify risks/opportunities
• Work closely with the wider bid team to strengthen overall submissions

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Design Manager working in a preconstruction/bid environment
• Background in:
  • Fit-out, refurb, or interior construction
  • Main contractor or D&B environment
• Strong understanding of:
  • Design coordination
  • Buildability and technical detailing
  • Preconstruction processes
• Able to manage multiple stakeholders and consultants
• Commercial awareness and ability to influence design for cost/programme benefits
• Confident communicator in both technical and client-facing settings

What’s on Offer

• £400 - £450 per day (PAYE - Inside IR35)
• Hybrid working arrangement (min 4 days in London office)
• Opportunity to work on high-profile, design-led workspace projects
• Immediate start available

If you’re a Design Manager with strong bid/preconstruction experience looking for your next freelance opportunity in London, we’d love to hear from you.