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- Tasks: Lead the pre-construction process for exciting commercial fit-out projects.
- Company: Dynamic construction firm with a focus on innovation and quality.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Join a team that values creativity and offers excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Take ownership of impactful projects and shape the future of commercial spaces.
- Qualifications: 7-10+ years in commercial fit-out, strong communication, and stakeholder management skills.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.
We are seeking an experienced Pre‑Contract Manager to lead the full pre‑construction process for high‑quality CAT A and CAT B commercial & Laboratory fit‑out projects. This is a senior, influential role with full ownership of bids from enquiry to contract award, leading estimating, design, services, procurement and consultant engagement, and acting as a key client‑facing figure during the tender stage.
The Role
You will be responsible for ensuring all bids are commercially sound, fully scoped, buildable, and de‑risked, and that projects are handed over to delivery teams with clarity and confidence.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the end‑to‑end pre‑contract and bid process for CAT A & CAT B fit‑out projects.
- Set bid strategy, programme, resourcing and commercial approach.
- Manage and coordinate estimating, design management, services (MEP), procurement and consultant input.
- Review tender documentation, identify risks and opportunities, and produce robust assumptions, exclusions and clarifications.
- Lead value engineering and alternative proposals where appropriate.
- Oversee supply‑chain tendering, evaluation and subcontractor selection.
- Coordinate outline programmes, methodology and logistics strategies.
- Act as senior point of contact for clients, PMs, QSs, consultants and landlords.
- Lead tender interviews and presentations.
- Support commercial negotiations and contract finalisation under JCT D&B 2024.
- Ensure a structured handover to project delivery teams.
About You
You will be a confident, commercially astute pre‑construction professional with a strong interiors background and the ability to lead multiple tenders at pace.
Experience & Skills
- ~7–10+ years experience within commercial fit-out/interiors contracting.
- ~Proven delivery of CAT A and CAT B projects under Design & Build.
- ~Strong understanding of:
- Fit‑out construction methodology
- MEP coordination and interfaces
- Landlord and base‑build constraints
- Solid working knowledge of JCT Design & Build 2024.
Qualifications
Degree or equivalent experience in Construction, Quantity Surveying, Building Services or similar. Professional memberships (RICS / CIOB / CIBSE) are desirable but not essential.
Contractor manager in Reading employer: Bulb
Contact Detail:
Bulb Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Contractor manager in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a job opportunity that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and showcasing your experience with CAT A and CAT B projects. We want to see how you can lead bids and manage stakeholders effectively, so be ready to share specific examples!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on companies that align with your values and expertise. Use our website to find roles that excite you and match your skills in pre-construction management.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can set you apart from other candidates. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Contractor manager in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Pre-Contract Manager role. Highlight your experience with CAT A and CAT B projects, and don’t forget to showcase your skills in managing bids and client relationships.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific projects you've led and how your experience aligns with our needs at StudySmarter.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on your achievements. Use numbers and examples to demonstrate how you’ve successfully managed bids and delivered projects on time and within budget.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bulb
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the specifics of CAT A and CAT B projects. Be ready to discuss your past experiences with similar projects, focusing on your role in the pre-construction process and how you ensured bids were commercially sound and buildable.
✨Master the Tender Process
Brush up on the entire tender process, from enquiry to contract award. Be prepared to explain how you've led estimating, design management, and procurement in previous roles. Highlight any successful strategies you've implemented that resulted in winning bids.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a key client-facing figure, your communication skills are crucial. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Prepare examples of how you've effectively managed stakeholders and navigated complex negotiations in the past.
✨Prepare for Value Engineering Discussions
Since value engineering is a significant part of the role, think about instances where you've successfully proposed alternative solutions or cost-saving measures. Be ready to discuss how these decisions impacted project outcomes positively.