Head of Proposals in Reading

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Direct message the job poster from DAS Fire Limited - Fire Detection and Suppression

Managing Director at DASFire | Strategy & Growth Leadership | Building Client Partnerships & Driving Collaboration | Private Equity-Backed…

Reports to: Sales Director

Purpose

This role is responsible for driving the strategic growth and commercial development of DAS Fire through effective pipeline management bid coordination, and proactive client engagement. This individual will support the pre‑construction sales process, working closely with the estimating, design, and project teams to secure high‑value opportunities that align with the company’s growth objectives. The role also entails leading the internal sales team, contributing to marketing strategies, and ensuring the company maintains its reputation as a first‑class fire protection solutions provider.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Development & Client Engagement

• Collaborate closely with company directors to identify, qualify, and secure new business opportunities while maintaining and nurturing existing client relationships.
• Play a critical role in shaping the future sales strategy of the business and building a robust and sustainable pipeline.
• Take a selective and strategic approach to tendering, focusing on opportunities that align with DAS Fire’s core values and long‑term objectives.
• Represent the company at industry events and meetings, strengthening its profile and building relationships with key stakeholders.

Proposal Management & Technical Input

• Support the design and generation of tenders, particularly in the Data Centre (DC) market, covering:
  • Fire Detection and Visual Alarm Systems
  • PAVA and Electronic Sounder Evacuation Systems
  • Secondary Containment Design based on primary layouts
  • Panel Architecture and engineering‑led solutions
  • Gantry and generator‑related fire safety solutions
  • Integration of sprinkler, water mist, and gaseous suppression systems in collaboration with DAS technical teams & individual departments.
• Identify and address scope gaps, risks, and interfacing issues early in the tender stage to ensure robust, engineered solutions.
• Support and mentor the internal direct sales team, ensuring alignment with company targets and fostering a performance‑driven culture.
• Support the development and execution of the company’s marketing strategy in partnership with the leadership team.
• Oversee the full tender process including bid preparation, document submission, cost estimation, negotiations, and record‑keeping.

Commercial Oversight & Handover

• Ensure accurate preparation of project build budgets and inclusion of validated subcontractor quotations prior to submission.
• Support a seamless transition from sales to contracts through detailed handovers and continuous project team engagement.
• Review creditworthiness of new clients prior to tender engagement.
• Track contract budgets, maintain commercial records, and contribute to forecasting and reporting of divisional performance via use of an internal CRM system on a week‑by‑week basis.

Quality, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure proposals and sales strategies adhere to safety regulations, quality standards, and company policies.
• Promote DAS Fire’s reputation for quality, professionalism, and technical excellence in all client interactions and internal collaborations.
• Contribute to the preparation of design documents, method statements, drawings, and calculations required up to the contract handover stage.
• Monitor competitor activity and industry developments to inform DAS Fire’s strategic direction and identify emerging opportunities or threats.

Skills, Knowledge & Experience

Proven experience in leading high‑value proposals and business development within the fire protection or M&E sectors.

• Strong technical understanding of fire systems and integrated life safety solutions.
• Exceptional client management, negotiation, and stakeholder communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to support and develop a successful sales team.
• Familiarity with the Data Centre sector (preferred).
• Ability to interpret complex specifications and engineer compliant, cost‑effective solutions.
• Proficient in budget forecasting, commercial analysis, and tender documentation.

Person Spec

• Degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or a related discipline (preferred).
• Relevant fire safety or life systems accreditations (e.g., FIA, LPCB, or equivalent).
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel nationally as required.
• CSCS and or NVQ Level 6 or higher or equivalent H&S certification desirable.
• Right to work in the UK.

Seniority level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Business Development, Sales, and Project Management

Industries

Fire Protection and Construction

Referrals

Referral program details etc.