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- Tasks: Lead the bid lifecycle, crafting compelling proposals for aviation and defence contracts.
- Company: Dynamic organisation specialising in aviation and operational training services.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, enhanced pension, bonuses, private medical, and flexible benefits.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in bid management with strong communication and organisational skills.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to inclusion and professional growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are recruiting an experienced Bid Manager to join a high-performing business operating in a complex, regulated aviation and defence environment. This is a key role within the Business Development function, responsible for leading the delivery of high-quality, compelling bids that secure and retain long-term contracts across a diverse customer base. This opportunity suits a proactive, detail-driven professional who thrives in fast-paced environments and enjoys owning the full bid lifecycle — from early qualification through to contract award.
A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package are offered, including enhanced pension contributions, bonus incentives, private medical options, electric vehicle schemes, wellbeing programmes, and additional flexible benefits.
Reporting into senior leadership, the Bid Manager will take responsibility for the end-to-end management of complex bids and proposals. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to develop winning strategies, ensure governance compliance, and deliver high-impact submissions to deadline.
Key Responsibilities- Lead the full bid lifecycle, from opportunity qualification through to submission and contract award.
- Develop clear bid strategies, plans, and win themes aligned to customer and commercial objectives.
- Coordinate and lead multi-disciplinary bid teams, working closely with sales, delivery, finance, legal, and external partners.
- Act as the central point of contact for all bid-related activity, ensuring quality, consistency, and timely progress through reviews and approvals.
- Ensure compliance with internal bid governance frameworks and recognised bid-management best practice (e.g. Shipley methodology).
- Continuously improve bid processes, governance, and knowledge-sharing across the business.
- Proven experience in bid and proposal management, ideally within aviation, aerospace, defence, or similarly regulated sectors.
- Minimum 5 years' experience managing complex, high-value bids.
- Strong leadership and stakeholder-management skills with commercial awareness.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce persuasive, high-quality proposals.
- Advanced MS Office capability and outstanding organisational skills.
- Ability to manage multiple deadlines and priorities in a high-pressure environment.
The organisation is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful working environment. Different perspectives and experiences are actively encouraged, recognising that diversity strengthens decision-making and business outcomes. Applications are welcomed from veterans, service leavers, and armed forces spouses or partners, and reasonable adjustments will be made to support candidates throughout the recruitment process.
About the OrganisationThe business delivers highly specialised aviation and operational training services, supporting complex missions across the UK and internationally. With a modern and diverse fleet, advanced technology, and highly experienced personnel, the organisation provides mission-critical capability to customers operating in demanding environments across allied and NATO regions.
Bid Manager in England employer: Volantes Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Volantes Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Bid Manager in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the aviation and defence sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common bid management scenarios. Think about how you would handle complex bids and what strategies you’d employ. This will help you showcase your expertise and confidence when it counts.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss how you've successfully coordinated multi-disciplinary teams in past roles. Highlighting your ability to manage diverse groups will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for talented Bid Managers like you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves.
We think you need these skills to ace Bid Manager in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Bid Manager role. Highlight your experience in managing complex bids, especially in aviation or defence, and showcase how your skills align with our needs.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; share specific examples of successful bids you've led. Use metrics where possible to demonstrate your impact and effectiveness in previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts logically. We want to see your communication skills shine through in your written application.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role without any hiccups!
How to prepare for a job interview at Volantes Recruitment
✨Know Your Bid Lifecycle
Make sure you understand the full bid lifecycle, from opportunity qualification to contract award. Familiarise yourself with the specific processes and methodologies used in the aviation and defence sectors, like the Shipley methodology, as this will show your potential employer that you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Bid Manager, you'll be leading multi-disciplinary teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully coordinated teams in the past, highlighting your leadership style and how you manage stakeholder relationships. This will demonstrate your ability to drive collaboration and achieve results under pressure.
✨Craft Compelling Proposals
Brush up on your writing skills! Be ready to discuss how you create persuasive, high-quality proposals. Bring examples of your work to the interview, and be prepared to explain your thought process behind developing clear bid strategies and win themes that align with customer objectives.
✨Emphasise Continuous Improvement
Talk about how you’ve contributed to improving bid processes in your previous roles. Share specific instances where you’ve implemented changes that enhanced efficiency or quality. This shows that you’re not just about managing bids but also about evolving and optimising the way bids are handled.
