Bid Manager

I am currently recruiting for a Bid Manager on behalf of a highly established engineering business based in Poole, UK.

This is a pivotal opportunity for an experienced Bid Manager to take full ownership of complex, high-value bids within a technically demanding, project-led environment.

As Bid Manager, you will manage the end-to-end bid lifecycle — from RFQ through to submission, purchase order processing, contractual acceptance and handover to delivery teams.

The Bid Manager will play a central role in securing profitable contracts while ensuring risk is clearly identified, managed and mitigated throughout the process.

The Bid Manager role will involve:

• Planning, leading, organising and controlling customer RFQ requirements to accurately define all costs and risks whilst maximising the opportunity of securing the contract
• Compiling tender and bid documentation in line with company procedures
• Generating detailed cost models for tenders and bids
• Managing associated risks and opportunities
• Preparing and executing bids within agreed timescales
• Liaising and negotiating with customers and suppliers in collaboration with senior stakeholders
• Processing Purchase Orders in accordance with company procedures
• Managing Bid Decision Gates within the Business Winning Framework
• Reading and interpreting Statements of Work, procurement specifications, engineering drawings and bills of materials
• Generating accurate labour and material estimates
• Liaising with Engineering and Supply Chain to obtain costings
• Coordinating internally with design, operations, manufacturing, quality and programme teams
• Supporting KPI adherence and company values

To be successful as a Bid Manager, you will demonstrate:

• A proven track record delivering complex bids and tenders to demanding deadlines
• Experience leading bid teams in high-pressure environments
• Strong analytical capability and the ability to develop complex proposals
• High-level proposal writing skills
• Financial awareness including budgeting and project finance
• Commercial management and negotiation experience
• Experience within a complex engineering or project-led business
• Strong Microsoft Office skills including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and knowledge of Microsoft Project
• Ability to work independently and build credibility with senior stakeholders
• NVQ Level 4 or relevant technical qualification / equivalent experience

Whats in it for you:

• 25 days holiday + bank holidays (with buy/sell option and additional days for service)
• 5% employer pension contribution
• Life insurance (4x salary)
• Christmas shutdown
• £500 employee referral bonus
• Cycle to Work & Tech purchase schemes
• Free eye tests & contribution toward eyewear
• Free parking, refreshments & fresh fruit
• 24/7 GP access, mental health support & wellbeing services (including dependents)
• Recognition awards & long service awards
• Structured training & development including apprenticeships, leadership and technical training

This Bid Manager position offers the opportunity to play a key role in securing strategically important contracts within a technically advanced engineering environment. The Bid Manager will have significant visibility across the business and will directly influence commercial success.

If you are an experienced Bid Manager looking for a challenging and rewarding opportunity in Poole, I would be keen to speak with you.
Ian Broadhurst
07734406996
ian.broadhurst@holtengineering.co.uk