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- Tasks: Lead the pre-contract process and prepare high-quality bids for exciting projects.
- Company: Join Populous, a leading design firm focused on creating spaces where people gather.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, gym discounts, and access to events at Populous-designed venues.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by shaping iconic projects and collaborating with creative minds.
- Qualifications: Experience in commercial management and strong communication skills are essential.
- Other info: Work in a vibrant studio by the River Thames with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
About Populous
For more than 40 years Populous has had a singular focus – to draw people together around the things that they love, to be the leading design firm that specialises in places, spaces and events where people gather. Our success is defined by designing projects that are seen as the benchmark. We are committed to future innovation, anticipating and shaping the future of our industries.
Our team is made up of highly talented people with a range of skills, all integral to successfully bringing to life the places and experiences we design. As our company has grown, our expertise has expanded to encompass a wide variety of disciplines – including architecture, audiovisual consultancy, brand activation, design & build, events, food & beverage strategy, interior design, landscape architecture, urban design and wayfinding. This varied expertise enables us to transform neighbourhoods, revitalise cities, build relationships and create buildings, places and spaces that draw people together, from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to The Co-op Live Arena.
About the Role
The Commercial Manager provides the strategic direction in all elements of the pre-contract process from opportunity assessment to preparation of bids. Working as a key part of the commercial leadership team providing the business with strategic guidance on all commercial matters, ensuring that projects are set for success from the outset. The Commercial Manager will also provide post contract support and guidance relating to ongoing contractual matters during the delivery phase negotiating with clients as required and providing support and direction to the Design Management Group (DMG).
Key responsibilities include:
- Lead on Pre-contract process ensuring that bids are prepared in a structured manner, setting out clear scope and deliverables.
- Review and comment on legal and commercial terms ensuring that these align with Populous legal and insurance limitations.
- Working with the architectural teams to understand deliverables and constraints preparing detailed schedules as required.
- Be the point of contact for the Principal In Charge during the pre-tender process.
- Ensure that information is prepared in line with bid timetables as agreed with PIC and Regional Bid Lead.
- Prepare pricing structure and supporting resources plan, prepare and develop profitability assessment using Deltek Workplan.
- Identification of key risks and establish approaches to address and mitigate and set these out clearly for pricing purposes.
- Advising on complex strategies of delivery including any impact of phased programmes or non-standard procurement methodology.
- Manage priorities and communicate timescales and issues to PIC managing expectations and outputs.
- Liaise with BD team on opportunities and ensure that opportunity trackers etc are up to date.
The post holder must be able to work on their own initiative setting their own timetables and priorities.
Key Outputs & Relationships
- Production of high-quality bid documents that support the business securing £100M of project revenue per annum.
- Provide clear reporting on progress of bids, highlighting issues and agreeing remedial actions.
- Close relationship with both the financial and legal teams to ensure projects are secured at viable fees and all risks have been addressed in the initial plans.
- Advise commercial lead of issues in terms of profit and delivery risk and escalating as required to PIC.
- Working with DMG and ensuring a smooth handover from pre to post contract delivery.
- Establish strong relationship with commercial leads in client teams in order to address issues before they impact projects.
KPI's
- Ensure that all scope, and fee information included in the proposal is accurate and has been agreed with the project lead and the PIC.
- Meet agreed timetables for delivery of proposals, co‑ordinating with the BD team.
- Communicate clearly with project leads and PIC as required, highlighting issues and proposing solutions and mitigations.
- Ensuring that workplans are up to date and handed across to the DMG in good time and with a clear handover and guidance.
About The Studio
Our Putney studio, which is also our EMEA Headquarters, is located on the banks of the River Thames, a short walk from Putney High Street and with excellent travel connections. Our employees enjoy a comprehensive and competitive benefits programme, as well as the opportunity to attend events at several Populous-designed venues.
Why Join the Team?
- Work alongside passionate, creative individuals who lead their industry, transform ideas into reality and celebrate the beauty of human connection.
- Enjoy various benefits, such as hybrid working and gym membership discounts.
- Enjoy the opportunity to attend events at Populous-designed venues.
- Connect and learn at regular social and knowledge sharing events including an annual conference and a weekend abroad Christmas party.
How To Apply
Populous is an equal opportunity employer. If you’re ready to utilise your skills to support our growing practice, click “Apply” to begin the application process. In your application, please include your CV and a one-page letter of motivation (cover letter), salary expectations, and availability.
Commercial Manager – Bids & Pre Contract in London employer: Populous
Contact Detail:
Populous Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Commercial Manager – Bids & Pre Contract in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their values and recent work, especially in areas like architecture and design. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in what they do.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills align with the role of Commercial Manager. Highlight your experience in managing bids and contracts, and don’t forget to showcase your strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Populous. Don’t forget to follow up after applying; a little persistence can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Commercial Manager – Bids & Pre Contract in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure it reflects your passion for the role and highlights how your skills align with what we’re looking for. Keep it concise, but don’t shy away from showing your personality.
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send the same CV to every job. Tailor it to highlight the experience and skills that are most relevant to the Commercial Manager position. We want to see how you can contribute to our team!
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on your achievements rather than just responsibilities. Use numbers and examples to demonstrate how you’ve made an impact in previous roles. We love seeing results!
Follow Application Instructions: Make sure to follow the application instructions carefully. Include all requested documents like your CV, cover letter, salary expectations, and availability. Applying through our website ensures your application gets to us directly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Populous
✨Know Your Bids Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the pre-contract process and the specifics of bid preparation. Familiarise yourself with Populous's recent projects and how they align with your experience. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
As a Commercial Manager, you'll need to provide strategic guidance on commercial matters. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully identified risks and developed strategies to mitigate them. This will highlight your ability to think critically and strategically, which is crucial for this position.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Effective communication is key in this role, especially when liaising with various teams. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. You might even want to rehearse common interview questions with a friend or in front of a mirror to ensure you convey your ideas effectively during the actual interview.
✨Build Relationships with the Interviewers
Populous values strong relationships, so take the time to connect with your interviewers. Ask insightful questions about their experiences and the company culture. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you. Remember, interviews are a two-way street!