At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to create winning proposals for exciting construction projects.
- Company: Willmott Dixon, a leading construction company with a rich history.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn, competitive salary, and tuition fee coverage.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Launch your career in management with real responsibility and fast-track progression.
- Qualifications: Graduates in Marketing, Communications, English, or related fields welcome.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.
Willmott Dixon is looking for bright and ambitious graduates to join our Management Trainee programme in Proposals Management within our Construction Wales & West business, based out of our Bristol office, near Pill. This is more than just a first job in construction; it's a launch pad for future leaders. Our programme gives you real responsibility from day one, structured learning, and the chance to help shape communities through the buildings we deliver. Our graduate management trainee programme is 2 to 3 years in duration.
If you have experience in marketing, communications, or English studies, you'll find a fulfilling career in proposal development with us and we welcome your application. You'll leverage your persuasive writing skills, collaborate with teams to shape winning solutions, and work with graphic designers to translate ideas into compelling visual narratives.
About the Role
As a Proposals Management Trainee, you will be directly involved in the bid process for our multi-million-pound building projects. Through creative, well-thought-out and engaging written content, we are able to 'wow' our customers and ultimately win work to deliver high quality buildings which shape communities. You will be working with colleagues to engage and lead subject matter experts in addressing the customer's needs and concerns, ensuring our proposals/bids offer best value for our customer. This is achieved by leading the business offer with compelling and persuasive written and oral content. Upon graduation from the programme, you'll progress into an Assistant Proposals Manager role.
Why Willmott Dixon?
With over 170 years of rich history, Willmott Dixon's purpose goes beyond profit; delivering brilliant buildings, transforming lives, strengthening communities and enhancing the environment so our world is fit for future generations. We've been recently recognised as:
- One of the Top 10 "Big" Companies to Work For (Sunday Times, 2025)
- In the Top 50 Employers for Gender Equality (Times, 2024)
- Top Five of Europe's 1,000 Best Workplaces (Financial Times, 2025)
- The first major contractor to win a King's Award for Enterprise in sustainable development
We've been running our Management Trainee scheme for over 40 years, with many of our current senior leaders having started out here!
What Makes Our Program Stand Out?
- Earn while you learn - competitive salary with increases as you progress
- No student debt - we cover your tuition fees for part-time study towards a relevant qualification
- Fast-track progression - a proven route into management, with most trainees stepping into Assistant Management roles upon completion
- Real responsibility - you'll manage live projects, not just shadow others
- Structured rotations - exposure across different functions to broaden your knowledge and skills
- Recognition - opportunities to take part in Trainee Challenges and even win our coveted Trainee of the Year
- Support professional memberships and accreditations i.e - CIOB, RICS etc.
What We're Looking For
We welcome applications from graduates in Marketing, Communications, English, History, Social Sciences, and Construction. The ideal candidate will ideally have some exposure to construction, proposals, or with bidding and tenders (work experience, placement or similar), a degree, and a valid driver's license.
Next Steps
Our Management Trainee roles start in September 2026. Applications close: Wednesday 17th June. Shortlisted candidates can expect to be invited to an interview in our Bristol office in July/August.
Inclusion & Flexibility
We embrace diversity and are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer. We also consider flexible and agile working requests.
Graduate Management Trainee - Proposals Management in Woodford employer: Willmott Dixon Group
Willmott Dixon is an exceptional employer that offers a dynamic and supportive environment for aspiring professionals in the construction industry. With a strong commitment to employee development, our Graduate Management Trainee programme provides real responsibility from day one, competitive salaries, and the opportunity to earn while you learn, all within a culture that values diversity and community impact. Join us in Bristol, where you'll not only kickstart your career but also contribute to shaping communities through innovative building projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Management Trainee - Proposals Management in Woodford
✨Get Hands-On with Local Projects
Dive into local construction projects or volunteer for community builds. It’s a great way to pick up skills, meet professionals, and show off your dedication since the construction field values practical experience as much as academic knowledge.
✨Connect at Construction Events
Keep an eye out for local trade shows, career fairs, and construction expos in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry folks, learn about companies like Willmott Dixon Group, and even potentially snag a trainee position.
✨Show Off Your Skills on Social Media
Utilise platforms like Instagram or TikTok to showcase your passion for construction. Share posts of projects you’ve worked on or your learning journey. Companies notice candidates with a visible passion, and it might just catch the eye of someone at Willmott Dixon Group!
✨Apply Early and Often!
Trainee positions often pop up during specific recruitment windows, so keep your eyes peeled and apply through our website promptly. Remember, reaching out to companies directly, like Willmott Dixon Group, can also show initiative and increase your chances of landing that trainee spot!
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Management Trainee - Proposals Management in Woodford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your education and training:For a trainee role in construction, highlighting any relevant education, training or certifications is key. If you’ve got a construction-related qualification or have completed any vocational training, make sure to feature that prominently in your CV!
Hands-on experience counts!:Even if you haven't worked full-time in construction yet, any hands-on experience can give you a leg up. If you've ever done work experience, internships, or even home projects related to construction, mention them! This shows your enthusiasm and commitment to learning.
Speak to your motivation in your cover letter:As a trainee, employers want to see your eagerness to learn and grow in this field. Use your cover letter to express passion for construction and what interests you about the role at Willmott Dixon Group. Let them know why you’re excited to start your career in construction!
Emphasise teamwork and communication skills:Construction is all about teamwork! Make sure your application highlights any experience you have working in teams or communicating effectively with others. This is crucial for a role like this, so showcase any group projects or collaborative efforts you’ve been involved in.
How to prepare for a job interview at Willmott Dixon Group
✨Dive Into Safety Protocols
In construction, safety is paramount. Brush up on key safety regulations and procedures relevant to the role you're applying for at Willmott Dixon Group. Showing that you understand and prioritise safety can set you apart from other trainees.
✨Show Off Your Willingness to Learn
As a trainee, your eagerness to learn is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your past experiences related to construction – even if they are just DIY projects or volunteering on-site. It helps to showcase your passion and how you adapt to new environments.
✨Know the Tools of the Trade
Familiarise yourself with the common tools and machinery used in construction. At Willmott Dixon Group, you might be questioned about specific tools or equipment you’ve encountered. Having a basic understanding of how they work can really impress your interviewers.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect some practical scenarios during your interview. You might be asked how you would handle certain situations on-site, such as resolving conflicts or ensuring safety compliance. Think of a few examples in advance that show your problem-solving abilities.
