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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage high-value bids for advanced electronic systems in defence and maritime sectors.
- Company: Leading engineering and defence-focused organisation with a global impact.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development, and the chance to work on mission-critical projects.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of securing complex programmes that make a difference worldwide.
- Qualifications: Experience in delivering bids, strong communication skills, and analytical capability.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for growth in a respected organisation.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Poole, Dorset
Reporting to: Head of Bids
The Opportunity
Copello is supporting a leading engineering and defence-focused organisation in the recruitment of a Bid Manager. The role offers the opportunity to manage complex, high-value bids for advanced electronic systems supplied to global defence and maritime customers. Our client designs, engineers, and manufactures mission-critical systems used in demanding environments worldwide, providing full lifecycle support from design through to in-service support.
Role Overview
The Bid Manager will manage the end-to-end bid lifecycle, from RFQ through to proposal submission, purchase order processing, contractual acceptance, and handover to delivery teams. The role works closely with sales, engineering, supply chain, and programme teams to ensure competitive and compliant submissions.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage customer RFQs, defining scope, cost, risk, and opportunity
- Prepare tender and bid documentation in line with internal procedures
- Develop detailed cost models and estimates
- Identify and manage bid-related risks and opportunities
- Deliver bids within agreed timescales and approval frameworks
- Liaise and negotiate with customers and suppliers alongside senior stakeholders
- Process purchase orders and manage bid decision gates
- Ensure compliance with internal policies, KPIs, and governance
Candidate Profile
Skills & Attributes
- Proven experience delivering complex bids and tenders
- Ability to lead bid teams under pressure and tight deadlines
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Commercially aware with strong analytical capability
- Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; MS Project knowledge desirable
- Able to work independently and build strong stakeholder relationships
Experience & Qualifications
- Background in an engineering-led or project-driven environment
- Experience of gated bid or Business Winning Frameworks
- Strong proposal writing capability
- NVQ Level 4 or equivalent qualification, or relevant industry experience
This is an excellent opportunity for a Bid Manager to play a key role in securing technically complex programmes within a globally respected organisation.
Bids Manager employer: Copello Global
Contact Detail:
Copello Global Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Bids Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and understanding their bid processes. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in managing complex bids and working under pressure.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Whether it’s a formal interview or a casual chat, being able to clearly articulate your skills and experiences related to bid management will set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might be perfect for you, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge over other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Bids 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 with complex bids and how it aligns with our client's needs in engineering and defence.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to emphasise your strong written communication skills and your ability to manage bids under pressure. We want to see how you can lead teams and deliver results!
Be Specific About Your Experience: When detailing your background, focus on specific projects or tenders you've managed. Use metrics where possible to demonstrate your success in delivering bids within tight deadlines.
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 get you into the process smoothly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Copello Global
✨Know Your Bids Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the bid lifecycle and the specific requirements of the role. Familiarise yourself with the types of bids the company handles and be ready to discuss your previous experiences managing complex bids.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Bid Manager, strong communication is key. Prepare examples that demonstrate your ability to liaise with various stakeholders, negotiate effectively, and lead teams under pressure. Practise articulating these experiences clearly and confidently.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Given the engineering focus of the role, expect technical questions related to bid management in an engineering context. Brush up on relevant terminology and processes, and be prepared to discuss how you've applied your analytical skills in past projects.
✨Demonstrate Your Commercial Awareness
The role requires a keen understanding of cost models and risk management. Be prepared to discuss how you've identified and managed risks in previous bids, and show that you can think commercially about the implications of your decisions.
