Senior Preconstruction Manager

Senior Preconstruction Manager

Full-Time 36000 - 60000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Unispace

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead pre-construction strategies and ensure project success from day one.
  • Company: Join Unispace, a global leader in transforming workplaces for top brands.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous benefits, and travel opportunities.
  • Other info: Embrace flexible working and a culture of inclusion and diversity.
  • Why this job: Shape inspiring workspaces and make a real impact on global projects.
  • Qualifications: 5-7 years in pre-construction with strong commercial acumen.

The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.

At Unispace, we are committed to transforming workplaces to meet the diverse needs of today’s dynamic global brands. Our agile, end-to-end approach is delivered seamlessly across borders, fueled by strong client partnerships and supported by insightful workplace intelligence and innovative technology. We believe that everyone deserves to work in an environment that inspires productivity, fosters peak performance, and promotes overall well-being.

Across our 48 global studios, we recognize that positive work environments cultivate open, collaborative, and supportive cultures, enriched by the contributions of independent and motivated individuals from all backgrounds. While our core business revolves around strategizing, designing, and building workplaces for some of the world’s leading brands, we understand that our people are our greatest asset. We prioritize their growth and well-being through a comprehensive Employee Value Proposition program that includes rewards and recognition, career development opportunities, and a strong focus on mental and physical well-being.

To further support our team, we embrace flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working options that empower our employees to balance in-office collaboration with remote work flexibility. This approach not only enhances work-life balance but also allows us to harness the full potential of our diverse and talented workforce.

Senior Pre-Construction Manager Role Profile

At Unispace, we shape the future of work by designing and delivering inspiring, high-performance workplaces for some of the world’s leading brands. We’re now looking for an experienced Senior Pre-Construction Manager to play a pivotal role in shaping projects before they ever reach site. This is a role for a commercially astute construction professional who thrives in fast-paced, collaborative environments and enjoys sitting at the intersection of design, cost, and delivery. You’ll act as the project integrator, aligning ambition with buildability and ensuring projects are set up for success from day one.

Responsibilities
  • Defining and leading pre-construction strategy alongside Project Directors, Design Managers, and Delivery teams
  • Shaping early feasibility, budgets, programmes, and risk strategies
  • Reviewing designs to identify buildability issues and value-engineering opportunities
  • Developing and managing concept and detailed cost plans, protecting GP and commercial outcomes
  • Leading subcontractor tendering, procurement strategies, and supply chain engagement
  • Preparing outline programmes covering design, procurement, and approvals
  • Reviewing contracts (JCT, NEC, bespoke) and advising on commercial and delivery risk
  • Supporting confident, professional client presentations covering design, cost, and programme
  • Ensuring smooth, well-structured commercial handovers into delivery
About you
  • 5–7 years’ experience in pre-construction, estimating, or commercial roles
  • Background in fit-out or wider construction / D&B environments
  • Strong understanding of design processes, procurement, and construction sequencing
  • Commercially minded with the confidence to influence design and client decisions
  • Comfortable presenting to clients and senior stakeholders
  • Proficient in MS Project and construction management systems (Vista or similar)
  • Degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, or similar (preferred)
What We Offer

In return, you will receive a competitive salary plus a generous benefits package, including a pension, paid holiday leave, and travel opportunities across our global offices. Unispace values its employees and offers extensive rewards and recognition, career development, and a focus on well-being.

Join Us

If you are passionate about joining Unispace and contributing to some of the world’s most recognisable commercial design projects, please apply through our careers page.

The statements in this job description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the person(s) assigned to this job. This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required. We encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply, and we are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities, allowing them to perform essential job functions as determined on a case-by-case basis.

Inclusion and Diversity Commitment

At Unispace, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We proudly embrace equal opportunity hiring and will evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, marital status, medical condition (as defined by state law), physical or mental disability, military service, veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. We are proud that our leadership reflects this commitment, with persons of color, women, neurodiverse and LGBTQ+ individuals playing pivotal roles in shaping the future of our organization. Their unique perspectives and experiences drive innovation and help us create a truly inclusive culture. We are dedicated to ensuring that every voice is heard and that our workplace is a space where diversity is not only celebrated but is integral to our success.

Senior Preconstruction Manager employer: Unispace

Unispace is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and inclusive work culture, offering employees the chance to make a significant impact in a global setting. With a focus on professional growth, this role provides unique opportunities to collaborate with senior leadership and shape communication strategies that resonate across diverse regions. The hybrid working model in London allows for flexibility while being part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to driving meaningful change within the organisation.

Unispace

Contact Details:

Unispace Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Senior Preconstruction Manager

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend events, and connect with people 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 Unispace and understanding their projects. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their mission of creating inspiring workplaces.

Tip Number 3

Practice your presentation skills! As a Senior Preconstruction Manager, you'll need to present confidently to clients and stakeholders. Rehearse your pitch and get feedback from friends or colleagues.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining the Unispace team.

We think you need these skills to ace Senior Preconstruction Manager

Pre-Construction Strategy
Feasibility Analysis
Budget Management
Risk Management
Value Engineering
Cost Planning
Subcontractor Tendering

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in pre-construction and how it aligns with Unispace's mission. We want to see how you can contribute to transforming workplaces!

Showcase Your Skills:Don’t forget to emphasise your commercial acumen and project management skills. Mention specific tools like MS Project or any construction management systems you've used, as these are key for the role.

Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through! We value independent and motivated individuals, so share your unique experiences and perspectives that make you a great fit for our collaborative culture.

Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application via our careers page. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling on your journey with Unispace!

How to prepare for a job interview at Unispace

Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of pre-construction processes, especially in fit-out and D&B environments. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in workplace design and how they impact project delivery. This will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to Unispace's mission.

Showcase Your Collaboration Skills

Since this role involves working closely with Project Directors, Design Managers, and Delivery teams, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight specific projects where your teamwork made a difference, especially in aligning design with buildability.

Prepare for Client Presentations

As you'll be presenting to clients and senior stakeholders, practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently. Prepare a mock presentation that covers design, cost, and programme aspects, and be ready to answer questions. This will demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively under pressure.

Understand the Commercial Landscape

Brush up on your knowledge of contracts like JCT and NEC, as well as risk management strategies. Be prepared to discuss how you've navigated commercial challenges in previous roles. This will show that you're not just a technical expert but also commercially astute, which is crucial for this position.