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- Tasks: Lead and coordinate bids for sustainable public transport projects.
- Company: First Bus is transforming the UK's bus industry for a sustainable future.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, free bus pass, and health support.
- Why this job: Be part of a team shaping the future of public transport with impactful projects.
- Qualifications: 3 years in procurement, strong strategic thinking, financial acumen, and negotiation skills required.
- Other info: We value diversity and welcome applications from all backgrounds.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Shape the Future of Public Transport with First Bus. The UK's bus industry is evolving, and First Bus is proud to be at the forefront of this transformation. As franchising and contract-based services become more prominent, we're embracing the opportunity to shape the future of sustainable transport in partnership with local authorities and key stakeholders.
To help drive this transformation, we're looking for a Bid Commercial Lead to join our growing team. This role is key to supporting and coordinating the successful delivery of large-scale franchising and contract-based bids, ensuring First Bus continues to deliver high-quality, efficient services to communities nationwide.
Why Join Us? Our Growth team plays a pivotal role in securing stability and future success. This is an opportunity to be part of a team that is shaping the next generation of public transport.
What You'll Be Doing:
- Understanding and articulating risk profile of specific projects and bidding opportunities
- Understanding and articulating contractual leverage risks and opportunities
- Researching competitor activity and analysis into likely bidding strategies of competitors
- Delivering financial oversight for bids to determine strategy for financial investment (e.g. Capital Expenditure versus Leasing, and required profit margin)
- Working with Procurement to ensure optimal pricing for bids
- Delivering commercial oversight for bids to ensure optimal approach is taken to solution development based on bid evaluation criteria
- Articulating commercial and financial plans to Mobilisation Director
- Working with Lead Bid Director and Contract Sales Directors to determine long-term Bidding and Growth strategy
What We're Looking For:
Essentials:
- Procurement Process: 3-years' experience in managing the end-to-end procurement process for medium to high-value contracts
- Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and implement bidding strategies and undertake competitor analysis.
- Financial Acumen: Understanding of financial principles to evaluate bid profitability.
- Negotiation: Strong negotiation skills to secure favourable terms.
- Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for clear and persuasive proposals.
- Analytical Skills: Ability to analyse data and market trends to inform bidding strategies
Desirables:
- Industry Knowledge: Familiarity with the bus/transport industry and its procurement practices.
- Senior Bid Management: Previous experience in bid management, including developing successful commercial and financial bid strategy
Rewards & Benefits:
- Competitive Salary + Bonus
- Flexible working
- 25 days holiday + bank holidays
- Pension scheme and chance to buy discounted First Group shares
- Working at First you will receive a Free bus pass for you and your family after 6 months services as well as discounted train travel
- Cycle to work scheme
- Your health is important to us which is why we offer Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents at no cost to you! This offering includes cash back benefits across optical & dental as well as virtual GP appointments, mental health support and nutrition and fitness advice. Our EAP provision offers 24hr, 365 days a year mental health support
Public transport serves everyone, whatever their differences. At First Bus, we want to be an employer open to you, no matter what your differences are. We aspire to be an inclusive organisation because diverse backgrounds, thinking and experiences bring so many benefits to our customers, communities and people. We welcome applications from all.
Applicants are advised that background checks will be conducted as a standard part of our recruitment process.
Bid Commercial Lead (London Area) employer: First Bus
Contact Detail:
First Bus Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Bid Commercial Lead (London Area)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in public transport and franchising. Understanding the current landscape will help you articulate your insights during interviews, showcasing your strategic thinking and industry knowledge.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the transport and procurement sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues and gain insights into successful bidding strategies.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing procurement processes. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated complex bids and secured favourable terms in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Brush up on your financial acumen. Be prepared to discuss how you evaluate bid profitability and make strategic decisions regarding capital expenditure versus leasing, as this will be crucial for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Bid Commercial Lead (London Area)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Bid Commercial Lead position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the key tasks mentioned in the job description.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasise your experience in managing procurement processes and developing bidding strategies. Use specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your financial acumen and negotiation skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also expresses your enthusiasm for shaping the future of public transport. Mention why you want to work with First Bus and how you can contribute to their goals.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at First Bus
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of the Bid Commercial Lead role and its responsibilities. Familiarise yourself with the procurement process, financial principles, and strategic thinking required for the position.
✨Research Competitors
Before the interview, research First Bus's competitors and their bidding strategies. Being able to discuss competitor activity and how it relates to your potential role will demonstrate your analytical skills and strategic thinking.
✨Prepare Your Financial Acumen
Brush up on your financial knowledge, especially regarding bid profitability and investment strategies. Be ready to discuss how you would approach financial oversight for bids and articulate commercial plans.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since excellent communication is key for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and persuasively. Prepare examples of past proposals or negotiations where your communication made a significant impact.
