At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and coordinate high-quality bid submissions for landmark architecture projects.
- Company: Globally renowned architecture and design studio in London.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, private healthcare, pension scheme, and vibrant office location.
- Other info: Join a diverse team in a modern studio with excellent transport links.
- Why this job: Shape iconic buildings while working in a creative and supportive environment.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in bid management with a passion for architecture and design.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
Ignis Partners is working with one of London's most respected international architecture and design practices to find an experienced Bids Manager for a fixed-term maternity cover contract. This is a great opportunity to lead the bidding function at a studio whose work shapes landmark buildings and public realm across the UK and internationally.
The studio is a large, established practice of 100+ designers, researchers and thinkers, built around context-driven design, long-term value and a genuine commitment to climate and culture. The work spans landmark commercial towers, mixed-use neighbourhoods, healthcare and research campuses, and award-winning sustainable buildings. It's a creative, internationally minded studio with a friendly atmosphere, a modern central-London space and excellent transport links.
The role involves leading and coordinating high-quality bid submissions across UK and international opportunities, working closely with partners, project teams and the wider business development function. Day to day, you'll:
- Lead and manage the bids function (currently a team of two), providing direction, oversight and professional development.
- Prepare and coordinate bid submissions, applying strong knowledge of the RFP process in the UK and internationally.
- Coordinate input from partners and project teams.
- Tailor CVs, case studies and standard content for each submission.
- Maintain the bid library and content database.
- Review submissions for quality, accuracy and compliance.
- Support interview preparation and presentation materials.
- Track opportunities and bid outcomes.
- Maintain sub-consultant relationships.
- Manage vendor portals and keep registrations up to date.
- Support global business development and maintain the practice's CRM.
What you'll bring:
- 3+ years' experience preparing and coordinating architectural bid submissions, with demonstrable understanding of the bid management process.
- Knowledge of the RFP process in both UK and international markets.
- An architectural background or a strong interest in architecture, construction and the creative process.
- An understanding of the design and procurement process; knowledge of contractual matters is an advantage.
- A talent for writing concisely and clearly, with excellent attention to detail and a thorough approach.
- Strong organisational, administrative and document-production skills.
- Good working knowledge of MS Word, Excel, Adobe Acrobat, Photoshop and InDesign.
- Proven ability to lead and develop a small business development team.
The person should be self-disciplined, entrepreneurial and confident in a creative environment — diplomatic but assertive, friendly but robust, able to challenge constructively and think on your feet. A relationship-builder who can influence cross-functionally, earn the trust of senior management and architectural staff alike, and stay calm and flexible under deadline pressure.
The package includes a salary in the region of £45,000-£55,000, depending on experience, private healthcare, healthcare cash plan and pension scheme. This is a full-time, fixed-term maternity cover role based in the London office. All candidates must have the right to work in the UK.
Bids Manager employer: Ignis Partners
Ignis Partners is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters creativity and collaboration in the heart of London. With a commitment to employee growth, the firm provides ample opportunities for professional development while working on a diverse range of exciting projects. Join a supportive team where your contributions are valued and your career can flourish.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Bids Manager
✨Get Your Portfolio Game On Point
As an aspiring architect, your portfolio is your golden ticket. Make sure it's not just a collection of your best work, but tells a story about your design process and creative thought. Showcase a range of projects, from conceptual sketches to final renderings—think of it as a visual CV!
✨Slide into Networking Events
Architecture thrives on community connections, so keep an eye out for local architecture meetups, exhibitions, and lectures. These events are gold for meeting industry professionals, and who knows? You might just bump into someone from Ignis Partners who can give you the insider scoop on their hiring process!
✨Learn the Software Inside Out
Make sure you're up to speed with design software like AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp. Being able to discuss your proficiency during interviews can really set you apart. Plus, if you can mention particular projects where you’ve used them, you’ll demonstrate both skill and practical experience.
✨Refine Your Interview Skills
Interviews for architecture roles can get quite technical, so practice answering questions about your design process and decision-making strategies. Prepare for potential design challenges they might put forward in interviews—show them you can think on your feet and come up with innovative solutions!
We think you need these skills to ace Bids Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Design Skills:Architecture is all about creativity and technical skills, so make sure your portfolio is front and centre! Include a range of your best projects, showcasing different styles and techniques. Don't forget to explain your design process and the challenges you overcame for each project – it gives hiring managers a glimpse into your thought process!
Tailor Your CV to Architecture:When putting together your CV, highlight relevant experience in architectural design software, like AutoCAD or Revit. Plus, if you have any internships or coursework that involved real-world projects, be sure to mention them. We want to see not just what you've done, but how it relates directly to this role at Ignis Partners!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to express your passion for architecture and what drew you to Ignis Partners. Talk about specific projects or values of theirs you admire, and how you see yourself contributing to their team. We want to feel your enthusiasm – let it shine through your words!
Use Professional Terminology:Don't shy away from using industry-specific jargon that demonstrates your expertise! Terms like 'sustainability', 'scale', and 'aesthetics' can not only show your knowledge but also help you connect with the hiring team. Just ensure it's done in a way that's relatable and not overly technical, so we can see your passion clearly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ignis Partners
✨Master the Technical Questions
In an architecture interview, be ready to tackle some technical questions about building codes, design principles, and software like AutoCAD or Revit. Brush up on your knowledge of materials and components, as you might even face scenarios to solve during the interview that showcase your problem-solving skills in real-time.
✨Bring Your Portfolio to Life
Your portfolio is your golden ticket! Make sure it not only showcases your best work but also highlights your design thinking process, from sketches to final outputs. During the interview, be prepared to discuss the projects in detail—what challenges you faced, how you overcame them, and what you learnt.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability
In today's architecture landscape, sustainability is key. Be sure to highlight any projects that involved eco-friendly designs or your understanding of sustainable practices. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the trends but are genuinely passionate about creating a better future through your designs.
✨Engage with Your Interviewers
Architecture is a collaborative field, so showing that you're a team player is essential. When conversing with the interviewers, actively listen and respond to their ideas. This isn’t just about you showing off your skills, but also about connecting and demonstrating how well you’d fit into their team at Ignis Partners.
