At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead bids and create winning proposals for defence and government contracts.
- Company: Join Sierra Nevada Corporation, a leader in advanced engineering technologies.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to work on impactful projects.
- Other info: Opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology and make a difference in national security.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of business development in a dynamic and structured environment.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in bid management and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) is a trusted leader in solving the world’s toughest challenges through advanced engineering technologies in Space Systems, Commercial Solutions, and National Security and Defence. Our applications include navigation and guidance, communication and surveillance systems, electronic warfare, and aircraft systems. SNC MS UK is an established mission partner and the “go-to” company in the UK for Tactical and Operational Communication Information Systems and service integration. We are driven to continuously improve services at pace for customers through research and development while leveraging SNC’s wider expertise to deliver best-of-breed capabilities and solutions to Defence and other areas of the UK Government.
We’re looking for an experienced Bid Manager to lead bids and produce high-quality, compliant proposals within the defence and secure government sector. You’ll sit at the heart of business development, translating complex technical solutions into compelling, customer-focused proposals that win work. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in structured, deadline-driven environments and understands the rigour of defence procurement.
Key responsibilities- Own the bid lifecycle for defence, government and secure contracts – capture planning, run kick-off meetings, bid gate reviews, submission and lessons learned sessions.
- Assemble and brief internal bid teams, work with them to develop competitive bid strategies, win themes, value propositions.
- Lead end-to-end proposal management, develop proposal plans and compliance matrices.
- Lead and facilitate storyboarding, writing, editing and proposal review cycles.
- Define and coordinate bid inputs from SMEs across commercial engineering, finance and project management disciplines, from internal and bid partner teams, including delivery costs and schedules, pricing and risk assessments.
- Ensure proposal responses and related documents are fully compliant with customer requirements (EOI, RFP, PQQ, ITT and supporting media).
- Support bid/no-bid decisions with insight on risk, effort and competitiveness.
- Provide coaching on working to the bid process, storyboarding, writing and other key skills required of bid team members.
- Manage security aspects related to bidding in conjunction with the company Security Manager.
- Maintain and develop source content libraries and best practice templates.
- Maintain and develop bid processes and procedures, to improve the efficiency of proposal production, quality of proposals and win rate.
- Ensure all activity aligns with defence security, governance and quality standards.
- Degree level education.
- 5+ years of experience in bid or proposal management or a related role.
- Proven experience delivering proposals to UK public sector defence and security organisations.
- Experience maintaining and working within a structured, process driven bidding environment.
- Familiarity with public procurement rules and regulations relating to tenders.
- Proven track record of managing complex responses to ITTs and delivering successful outcomes.
- Understanding of security classifications and information assurance.
- Familiarity with pricing inputs and commercial strategy.
- Desirable (but not essential): APMP Foundation / Practitioner (or equivalent).
- Experience with complex technical solutions (engineering, cyber, aerospace, communications, C4ISR, etc.).
- Experience in international defence bids.
- Excellent written communication – clear, persuasive, structured.
- Strong stakeholder management – confident working with senior engineers and leadership.
- Ability to manage multiple bids under tight deadlines.
- Highly organised with close attention to detail.
- Critical thinking and being able to view the proposal from multiple (customer) perspectives.
Bid Manager in Bristol employer: SNC Mission Systems UK
Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) MS UK is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation meets dedication in the defence sector. With a strong focus on employee growth and development, SNC provides comprehensive training opportunities and fosters a collaborative culture that values each team member's contributions. Located in the UK, employees benefit from engaging in meaningful projects that address critical national security challenges while enjoying a supportive atmosphere that encourages professional advancement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Bid Manager in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the defence sector. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising your pitch. Think about how you can translate your experience into the specific needs of the Bid Manager role. Use examples from your past that showcase your skills in managing bids and proposals.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the company thoroughly before any interview. Understand their projects, values, and recent news. This will not only help you tailor your answers but also show your genuine interest in working with them.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our platform.
We think you need these skills to ace Bid Manager in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Proposal:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your experience aligns with the Bid Manager role. Use keywords from the job description to show that you understand what we're looking for.
Showcase Your Experience:Don’t just list your previous roles; explain how your past experiences have prepared you for this position. We want to see examples of your success in managing bids and proposals, especially in the defence sector.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it structured and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your ideas flow logically and are easy to follow. Avoid jargon unless it's relevant!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at SNC Mission Systems UK
✨Know Your Bids Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the bid lifecycle and the specific requirements of the role. Familiarise yourself with SNC's previous bids and proposals, especially in the defence sector, so you can discuss how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Showcase Your Proposal Management Skills
Be ready to talk about your experience in managing complex proposals. Prepare examples that highlight your ability to lead proposal teams, develop compliance matrices, and ensure high-quality submissions. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of a Bid Manager.
✨Understand the Defence Procurement Landscape
Brush up on public procurement rules and regulations related to tenders, especially in the UK defence sector. Being able to discuss these topics will show that you’re not only familiar with the industry but also prepared to navigate its complexities.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Management Questions
Expect questions about how you manage relationships with senior engineers and leadership. Think of specific instances where you've successfully collaborated with various stakeholders to achieve a common goal, as this is crucial for the role.
