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- Tasks: Lead the full bid lifecycle and develop winning strategies for high-value contracts.
- Company: Dynamic aviation and defence company with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, enhanced pension, bonuses, private medical options, and flexible benefits.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment while managing complex bids.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in bid management, strong leadership, and excellent communication skills.
- Other info: Join a supportive team that values diverse perspectives and offers career growth.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are recruiting an experienced Bid Manager to join a high-performing business operating in a complex, regulated aviation and defence environment. This is a key role within the Business Development function, responsible for leading the delivery of high-quality, compelling bids that secure and retain long-term contracts across a diverse customer base. This opportunity suits a proactive, detail-driven professional who thrives in fast-paced environments and enjoys owning the full bid lifecycle — from early qualification through to contract award.
A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package are offered, including enhanced pension contributions, bonus incentives, private medical options, electric vehicle schemes, wellbeing programmes, and additional flexible benefits.
The Role
Reporting into senior leadership, the Bid Manager will take responsibility for the end-to-end management of complex bids and proposals. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to develop winning strategies, ensure governance compliance, and deliver high-impact submissions to deadline.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the full bid lifecycle, from opportunity qualification through to submission and contract award
- Develop clear bid strategies, plans, and win themes aligned to customer and commercial objectives
- Coordinate and lead multi-disciplinary bid teams, working closely with sales, delivery, finance, legal, and external partners
- Act as the central point of contact for all bid-related activity, ensuring quality, consistency, and timely progress through reviews and approvals
- Ensure compliance with internal bid governance frameworks and recognised bid-management best practice (e.g. Shipley methodology)
- Continuously improve bid processes, governance, and knowledge-sharing across the business
Experience, Skills & Qualifications
- Proven experience in bid and proposal management, ideally within aviation, aerospace, defence, or similarly regulated sectors
- Minimum 5 years’ experience managing complex, high-value bids
- Strong leadership and stakeholder-management skills with commercial awareness
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce persuasive, high-quality proposals
- Advanced MS Office capability and outstanding organisational skills
- Ability to manage multiple deadlines and priorities in a high-pressure environment
Values & Inclusion
The organisation is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful working environment. Different perspectives and experiences are actively encouraged, recognising that diversity strengthens decision-making and business outcomes. Applications are welcomed from veterans, service leavers, and armed forces spouses or partners, and reasonable adjustments will be made to support candidates throughout the recruitment process.
About The Organisation
The business delivers highly specialised aviation and operational training services, supporting complex missions across the UK and internationally. With a modern and diverse fleet, advanced technology, and highly experienced personnel, the organisation provides mission-critical capability to customers operating in demanding environments across allied and NATO regions.
Bid Manager employer: Aviation Jobsearch
Contact Detail:
Aviation Jobsearch Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Bid Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the aviation and defence sectors, especially those who have experience with bids. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising your pitch. Highlight your experience in managing complex bids and your ability to lead cross-functional teams. We want to see you shine and show how you can bring value to the role!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your skills with a portfolio of past bids you've managed. This will give potential employers a clear view of your capabilities and how you approach the bid lifecycle. Visuals can make a big impact!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our process.
We think you need these skills to ace Bid Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Bid Manager role. Highlight your experience in managing complex bids, especially in regulated sectors like aviation or defence. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of successful bids you've managed. Use metrics where possible to demonstrate your impact. This helps us understand the value you can bring to our team.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts logically. We appreciate well-organised submissions that are easy to read and get straight to the point.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aviation Jobsearch
✨Know Your Bid Lifecycle
Make sure you understand the full bid lifecycle, from opportunity qualification to contract award. Familiarise yourself with the specific processes and methodologies used in the aviation and defence sectors, like the Shipley methodology, as this will show your potential employer that you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Bid Manager, you'll be leading multi-disciplinary teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully coordinated teams in the past, highlighting your leadership and stakeholder management skills. Be ready to discuss how you ensure quality and consistency in submissions while managing tight deadlines.
✨Tailor Your Communication Style
Excellent written and verbal communication is key for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and persuasively. Consider preparing a brief presentation on a past bid you've managed, focusing on how you developed strategies and aligned them with customer objectives.
✨Demonstrate Continuous Improvement Mindset
The organisation values continuous improvement in bid processes. Think about ways you've enhanced bid management practices in your previous roles. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to knowledge-sharing and process improvements within the team.
