Bid Manager in Wantage

Analytical Expert Labs brings together specialist laboratories including Analytical Services International (ASI), Certis BioLabs, Forensic Access and Forensic Testing Services (FTS). Together, the Group provides clarity through science, combining almost 90 years of expertise with state-of-the-art laboratories and internationally recognised quality standards. Our clients include law enforcement, coroners, legal professionals, family courts, healthcare providers, private individuals and pharmaceutical companies.

As part of the Group’s continued growth, this is an opportunity for an experienced Bid Manager to take ownership of bid activity across all businesses. Operating within a specialist and highly regulated environment, the role will support the Group in securing new work through the delivery of high-quality, compliant and competitive tender submissions. This is a standalone role responsible for managing the full bid lifecycle, from identifying opportunities through to submission and post-tender review. The emphasis is on quality, consistency and ownership, with a manageable volume of opportunities across the Group.

Role Overview

The Bid Manager will be responsible for coordinating and delivering all tender activity across the Group, working closely with subject matter experts and senior stakeholders to develop strong, well-structured submissions. The role requires a confident, hands-on individual who is comfortable operating independently, managing the full bid process end-to-end, and establishing a consistent and effective approach to bidding across the Group.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the full bid lifecycle from opportunity identification through to submission and post-tender review
• Monitor tender mailboxes and procurement portals, maintaining visibility of opportunities across the Group
• Review tender documentation, support bid/no-bid decisions, and manage clarification questions
• Plan, coordinate and lead bid activity, ensuring clear timelines, responsibilities and delivery
• Develop and write high-quality, tailored responses aligned to client requirements
• Build, develop and maintain a credible bid library, ensuring content is accurate, relevant and up to date
• Support the coordination of commercial input, ensuring alignment between the proposed solution, pricing and overall bid response
• Ensure all submissions are compliant, accurate and completed to a high standard
• Manage submissions via procurement portals and maintain appropriate records and documentation
• Maintain a clear log of tender activity and provide proportionate reporting on bid performance and pipeline status
• Capture feedback and drive continuous improvement in bid content, processes and overall quality

Person Specification

• Proven experience managing bids end-to-end
• Strong bid writing and editing skills
• Experience with public sector procurement processes and portals
• Ability to coordinate input from multiple stakeholders and manage competing priorities
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
• Comfortable working independently in a standalone role

Role Context

This role is focused on delivering a structured and effective bid function across the Group. It is not a high-volume environment, and success will be measured on the quality and effectiveness of submissions rather than volume. The role works closely with colleagues across the business to manage tender opportunities from identification through to submission, maintaining clear visibility of live and upcoming bid activity.

Security Clearance

• Due to the highly sensitive nature of forensic casework:
• Security clearance is required
• Applicants must have five years’ continuous UK residency
• Criminal convictions may prevent clearance from being granted

Company Benefits

• The company supports and encourages individuals to grow and develop with their career whilst balancing work and life, truly accommodating with life outside of the business.
• We are an ambitious, growing group of companies, but we maintain a small company culture.
• Company pension
• Healthcare benefit including employee assist program and 24-hour GP line
• Life insurance 3x salary
• Free on-site parking
• Employee recognition/long service awards
• Employee referral scheme
• Gym membership
• Regular social events

All employees must ensure that high quality standards are maintained and help drive continuous improvement. They must also abide by the Forensic Regulator’s Codes of Practice and Conduct and the Forensic Access Code of Conduct.