Managing Estimator

Our client is an established and growing specialist trade contractor delivering high-quality interior, fit-out and specialist construction packages across a range of commercial projects.

The business is seeking to appoint an experienced Estimator  to lead and develop its estimating function, strengthen tendering procedures and support the continued growth of the company.

This is a senior management position suited to an individual with strong estimating and pre-construction experience gained within a specialist trade contractor, interior fit-out contractor or main contractor environment.

The successful candidate will take responsibility for the preparation, management and submission of competitive tenders, while working closely with the directors, commercial team, operational management and supply chain.

Managing Estimator  Responsibilities

Lead and manage the estimating and tendering function across the business.

Review tender enquiries and assess project suitability, risk, resource requirements and commercial viability.

Prepare accurate and detailed estimates, cost plans and tender submissions.

Analyse drawings, specifications, schedules and employer requirements.

Complete detailed take-offs and produce robust labour, material and subcontract cost assessments.

Develop tender strategies in conjunction with the directors and senior management team.

Manage the tender programme and ensure submissions are completed accurately and within the required timescales.

Obtain and analyse quotations from subcontractors and suppliers.

Build and maintain strong relationships with the company’s supply chain.

Identify value-engineering opportunities and propose alternative materials, specifications and construction methods.

Attend tender interviews, clarification meetings and pre-construction meetings.

Review contract conditions and identify commercial, contractual and operational risks.

Work closely with the commercial and operational teams to ensure a structured handover following tender award.

Maintain accurate estimating records, cost databases, labour outputs and historical pricing information.

Monitor tender performance, conversion rates and reasons for successful or unsuccessful bids.

Support the directors with workload forecasting, pipeline reviews and business planning.

Develop estimating procedures, reporting systems and internal controls.

Mentor and support estimators and other members of the pre-construction team.

Assist with the recruitment and development of the estimating department as the business continues to grow.

Ensure tenders reflect current market conditions, material prices, labour availability and programme constraints.

Experience and Skills

The successful Managing Estimator  should have:

• Significant estimating experience within the construction industry.
• Experience working for a specialist trade contractor, interiors contractor, fit-out contractor or main contractor.
• A strong understanding of interior construction packages, specialist trades and fit-out works.
• Experience preparing tenders for projects of varying values and complexity.
• The ability to interpret drawings, specifications, schedules and contractual documentation.
• Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, labour outputs and subcontract procurement.
• Commercial awareness and the ability to identify and manage tender risk.
• Experience leading tender submissions from initial enquiry through to final negotiation.
• Strong numerical, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills.
• The confidence to attend client meetings, tender interviews and commercial negotiations.
• The ability to manage multiple tenders and competing deadlines.
• Experience managing or mentoring estimators would be advantageous.
• Competence using estimating software, Microsoft Excel and other relevant construction systems.

The Individual

The successful candidate will be:

• Commercially astute and highly organised.
• A confident and experienced estimator with strong industry knowledge.
• Proactive, analytical and solutions focused.
• Comfortable operating at senior management level.
• Able to work independently while collaborating closely with other departments.
• Capable of developing systems, procedures and people.
• A strong communicator who can build relationships with clients, consultants, suppliers and subcontractors.
• Motivated by the opportunity to contribute to the growth and development of the business.

Role Overview

This is a commercially focused Estimator  role, with responsibility for the performance of the estimating function, tender quality, risk management and the successful conversion of opportunities into secured projects.

The Head of Estimating will play a key role in supporting the directors, improving tendering procedures and ensuring that the business continues to secure profitable and deliverable work.

Package

A competitive salary and benefits package will be offered, dependent upon experience.

Further details regarding salary, location, working arrangements and additional benefits can be provided during the recruitment process.