Bid Manager

Start Date: ASAP

Location: Kent, England

Job Type: Full-time, Hybrid, Permanent

UK applicants only as sponsorship isn’t available for this role.

ABOUT THE CLIENT

Our client is a Digital Software Consultancy and are currently looking for a Bid Manager to join their dynamic team! They offer innovative digital and cyber security solutions to their clients who are from the public and private sectors. You’ll be working on interesting large-scale Government and private sector projects.

ROLE OBJECTIVE

We are looking for an experienced Bid Manager with a strong background in public sector bidding and frameworks within the UK. The successful candidate will lead the bid process, from initial qualification through to submission, for large, complex bids primarily within the public sector. This role involves overseeing bid strategy, managing stakeholder collaboration, ensuring compliance with framework and regulatory requirements, and delivering high-quality, competitive submissions. The ideal candidate will bring expertise in UK public sector bidding, a strategic mindset, and the ability to work effectively under deadlines.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Bid Strategy Development: Define bid strategies and approach for public sector opportunities, ensuring alignment with business goals and sector-specific compliance requirements.
• Bid Planning and Management: Lead the entire bid process, from planning and initial qualification to submission and post-bid activities, managing timelines and resources effectively.
• Framework Compliance: Ensure all bids meet the specific requirements of public sector frameworks, including Crown Commercial Service (CCS) and other relevant bodies, and stay updated with regulatory changes.
• Stakeholder Coordination: Collaborate with internal teams—such as sales, technical, finance, and legal—to gather the necessary information, establish clear responsibilities, and secure approvals.
• Bid Content Development: Draft, review, and oversee content creation for proposals, ensuring responses are compelling, well-structured, and accurately tailored to client needs and framework criteria.
• Risk and Opportunity Analysis: Identify potential risks and opportunities associated with bids, develop mitigation strategies, and assess competitive positioning.
• Quality Control: Conduct quality assurance checks, including proofreading, formatting, and compliance reviews, to ensure all submissions are accurate and professional.
• Database and Knowledge Management: Maintain and improve the bid library, managing case studies, templates, and bid response materials, and ensure records of all bid activities are up-to-date.
• Post-Submission Activities: Lead debrief processes, gather feedback, and identify areas for improvement to enhance future bids.
• Continuous Improvement: Support bid process improvements, best practice development, and team training to increase win rates and operational efficiency.

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• Experience: 5+ years of bid management experience, with a proven track record in public sector bidding and a deep understanding of UK public procurement frameworks (e.g., CCS).
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint); experience with bid management software (e.g., Loopio, Qvidian) is preferred.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with UK public procurement regulations and frameworks, including experience with PQQs, ITTs, and RFIs.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a high level of proficiency in proposal writing, editing, and presentation.
• Project Management: Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple bids simultaneously and meet critical deadlines.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to assess and implement winning strategies tailored to public sector needs and requirements.
• Attention to Detail: Thoroughness in ensuring bid accuracy, compliance, and quality at all stages.
• Collaboration: Effective stakeholder management and collaboration across functions, ensuring timely input from relevant teams.
• Resilience: Thrives in a deadline-driven environment, with strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to overcoming challenges.
• Innovation and Improvement: Focus on continuous improvement, with the initiative to streamline processes and integrate best practices for increased efficiency.

BENEFITS:

• Competitive Salary: Base salary commensurate with experience, plus performance-based incentives.
• Hybrid Working: Flexibility to work from home and our office in Kent.
• Career Progression: Clear pathways for career development and progression within the company.
• Training & Development: Ongoing training and development opportunities to help you grow in your role.
• Supportive Culture: Join a collaborative, friendly, and ambitious team that values work-life balance and personal growth.
• 28 days annual leave, including bank holidays.