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
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Willmott Dixon on LinkedIn or attend industry events. A friendly chat can give us insights into the company culture and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by practising your pitch. We want to hear how your background in marketing or communications makes you the perfect fit for the Proposals Management role. Be ready to showcase your persuasive writing skills!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your creativity! Bring examples of your work that demonstrate your ability to create engaging content. Whether it's a proposal, a presentation, or a project, let us see how you can 'wow' customers.
✨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 us you’re serious about joining the team at Willmott Dixon.
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Management Trainee - Proposals Management in Woodford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Writing Skills:Since this role is all about persuasive writing, make sure your application showcases your best writing. Use clear, engaging language and structure your thoughts well. Remember, this is your chance to impress us with how you can communicate effectively!
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in marketing, communications, or English studies. We want to see how your background aligns with the Proposals Management role.
Be Authentic:Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for bright and ambitious graduates, so don’t be afraid to show us who you are and what makes you unique. Authenticity can really set you apart from other candidates!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure to apply through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Willmott Dixon Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into Willmott Dixon's projects and values. Familiarise yourself with their recent work and how they shape communities. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you connect your skills in marketing and communications to their mission.
✨Showcase Your Writing Skills
As a Proposals Management Trainee, persuasive writing is key. Prepare examples of your written work that demonstrate your ability to engage and persuade. Be ready to discuss how you can translate complex ideas into compelling narratives that resonate with clients.
✨Practice Collaborative Scenarios
Expect questions about teamwork and collaboration. Think of instances where you've worked with others to achieve a common goal, especially in a project setting. Highlight your ability to lead discussions and engage subject matter experts, as this will be crucial in the bid process.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the Management Trainee programme and the role of proposals management. Inquire about the types of projects you'll be involved in and how success is measured. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the role aligns with your career aspirations.