At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in developing estimating policies and delivering impactful training.
- Company: Join the Government Commercial Agency, the UK's largest public procurement organisation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous pension, flexi-time, and remote work options.
- Other info: Flexible working model with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in public services while growing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in line management and analytical modelling, with strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 59877 - 66869 € per year.
The successful candidate will be required to hold or undergo Security Check (SC) level clearance.
This role sits within the Markets, Sourcing and Suppliers (MSS) team, a team of almost 100 commercial, policy, finance and project delivery professionals who deliver outstanding public services and projects in partnership with the public, private and third sectors.
You will be developing and delivering policy updates, training and On The Shoulder Support (OTSS) relating to Estimating and Should Cost Modelling. You may also work on government priorities like the Public Interest Test, deliver training to SCS, and support a new pilot training programme for the Ministry of Defence - all in a day. This role is varied and fast moving, you will need to be engaged, curious and ready for any challenge.
Key Accountabilities:
- Lead and guide team members, manage performance to ensure a high-performing team, and support staff development through regular feedback.
- Lead on the improvement and update of estimating policy and guidance and provide SME (Subject Matter Expertise) on technical processes to wider policy teams.
- Deliver a range of training courses relating to the estimating process to a wider variety of x-Government stakeholders including commercial, contract management, policy, finance, programme and project management colleagues, from Ministers down.
- Assist in the delivery of the government-wide estimating framework, methodologies, tools and templates.
- Create adhoc, bespoke modelling guidance using the specific context and needs of each stakeholder and deliver it to senior civil servants, departmental leads and estimate and model developers ensuring best practice, laid out by the AqUA book is adhered to.
- Provide estimating On The Shoulder Support (OTSS) to departments. This involves coaching and orientation to core Playbook policies and guidance. Through this engagement across Government, the post holder will be expected to support others to facilitate the identification, development and sharing of best practice.
Essential Criteria (to be assessed at application stage):
- Line manager experience / capability.
- Experience of developing and using analytical models and techniques, using spreadsheets, databases, and other pragmatic approaches to solve problems numerically with high proficiency in using MS Excel as an analytical and reporting tool.
- An ability to work with a range of stakeholders, working collaboratively with colleagues from a cross-departmental team, providing clear advice and support and strong customer service and focus on delivery with the ability to respond quickly to changing circumstances and tight timescales.
- Good communication and influencing skills with demonstrated experience of delivering to a variety of stakeholders.
- An ability to work autonomously with little supervision, exercising sound judgement and taking the initiative.
- Understanding of Government project appraisal and evaluation, including the Green Book, Aqua Book, Managing Public Money and Consolidated Budgeting Guidance.
Success Profiles (to be assessed at interview):
- Behaviours:
- Communicating and Influencing
- Leadership
- Changing and Improving
- Managing a Quality Service
Valuing our people:
- Competitive salary
- Generous pension scheme
- A discretionary non-contractual performance related bonus
- Working remotely in addition to working in advertised office location
- Flexi time scheme (available for B1-B6)
- Minimum 25 days annual leave to a maximum service related 30 days excluding bank holidays.
The Civil Service is committed to attract, retain and invest in talent wherever it is found.
GCA operates a smarter working model that balances flexibility with collaboration. Successful candidates are expected to spend at least 26 days per quarter (approximately 2 days per week, pro-rata) at their contracted office, another GCA site, or off-site for meetings. For the remainder of the time, you may work from home or another suitable location that meets business needs.
Selection Process: A reserve list may be held for up to 12 months, which the Civil Service may use to fill future suitably similar vacancies across government for candidates who are considered appointable following interview. Should you be placed on a reserve list and want to be removed please contact recruitment@gca.gov.uk.
Please note that as part of this recruitment process, if you are unsuccessful at the interview stage but are close to the benchmark score you may be considered for and offered a role at a lower pay band within the same job family.
The standards of behaviour expected of civil servants are outlined in the Civil Service Code.
If you feel your application has not been treated in accordance with the Recruitment Principles, and you wish to make a complaint, you should contact recruitment@crowncommercial.gov.uk in the first instance.
Lead Estimator employer: Crown Commercial Service
At GCA, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a competitive salary and generous benefits including a robust pension scheme and flexible working arrangements. Our collaborative work culture fosters professional growth through continuous training and development opportunities, ensuring that our employees are well-equipped to tackle the dynamic challenges of public service procurement in vibrant locations like Birmingham, Liverpool, and Newport.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Estimator
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company inside out! Research their projects, values, and recent news. This will help you tailor your responses during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Set up mock interviews with friends or use online platforms to get comfortable with common questions. The more you practice, the more confident you'll feel when it’s your turn in the hot seat.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which can be a game-changer in landing that job.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up! After your interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows professionalism and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Estimator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the Lead Estimator role. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Skills:Don’t just list your skills; demonstrate them! Provide specific examples of how you've used analytical models and techniques in past roles. This will help us see your capabilities in action.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your writing is easy to follow. This will make it easier for us to assess your fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Crown Commercial Service
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in estimating policies and methodologies. Brush up on the Green Book and Aqua Book, as these are crucial for the role. Being able to discuss these confidently will show your expertise and readiness to lead.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. Highlight your ability to manage performance and support staff development, as this is key for the Lead Estimator position. Use the STAR method to structure your responses.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Think about how you’ve worked with various stakeholders before. Be ready to discuss how you’ve provided clear advice and support, especially in a cross-departmental context. This will demonstrate your strong communication and influencing skills.
✨Be Ready for Challenges
This role is fast-paced and varied, so prepare to discuss how you handle changing circumstances and tight deadlines. Share specific examples where you’ve adapted quickly and delivered results under pressure, showcasing your problem-solving abilities.
