Bidding and Proposal Manager

Bidding and Proposal ManagerRole OverviewWe are seeking an experienced and strategic Bidding and Proposal Manager to lead the end-to-end bid lifecycle for complex, high-value commercial opportunities. This role is pivotal in coordinating cross-functional teams—spanning Business Development, Finance, PMO, Contracts, Procurement, and Technical stakeholders—to deliver compliant, competitive, and high-quality proposals that secure new business and drive growth.You will be the driving force behind the proposal process, translating customer requirements into winning strategies, managing bid governance, and ensuring seamless handover to execution teams. This position requires a blend of project management excellence, commercial acumen, and deep understanding of the Aerospace & Defence or Advanced Technology sectors.Key ResponsibilitiesBid Management & StrategyLead the Full Bid Lifecycle: Manage the entire bid process from opportunity qualification and RFP/RFQ analysis through to proposal submission and contract handover.Develop Winning Strategies: Formulate compelling bid strategies, win themes, and value propositions that align with customer needs and organizational business objectives.Bid Planning & Governance: Develop and maintain detailed bid schedules, budgets, and risk registers. Ensure all submissions comply with internal governance, approvals, and regulatory requirements.Cross-Functional Coordination: Orchestrate contributions from Business Development, Finance (pricing), Legal (contracts), PMO, Engineering, and Supply Chain (procurement) to ensure cohesive and timely proposal development.Proposal Development & ProductionRFP Analysis & Compliance: Thoroughly analyze customer requirements to ensure all proposal content addresses technical specifications, commercial terms, and evaluation criteria.Content & Review Management: Lead the development of high-quality written and visual proposal content. Facilitate internal review processes (e.g., Red Team, Gold Team) and implement feedback effectively.Pricing & Commercial Strategy: Collaborate with Finance and Business Development to develop competitive pricing models and commercial structures that balance customer value with business profitability.Presentation Support: Prepare and participate in client presentations, clarification meetings, and negotiations to defend and articulate the proposal's value.Post-Submission & HandoverLessons Learned: Lead post-bid reviews to capture lessons learned and refine future bidding strategies and processes.Contract Handover: Ensure a smooth and effective transition of the awarded project to the delivery/execution teams, providing full documentation and strategic context.Qualifications & ExperienceEssentialEducation: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Project Management, or a related field.Experience: Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in bid/proposal management, with a proven track record of managing complex, large-scale international tenders.Industry Knowledge: Demonstrated experience in the Aerospace & Defence or advanced technology industry is essential.Methodology: Strong knowledge of bid management methodologies such as APMP, Shipley, or equivalent.Commercial Acumen: Solid understanding of pricing strategies, financial analysis, commercial evaluation, and contract terms.Skills: Exceptional project management, stakeholder management, communication, and analytical skills.DesirableCertification: APMP or Shipley certification is a distinct advantage.Technical Knowledge: Experience with PPPs, Design-Build, or other complex delivery models.Personal AttributesStrategic Thinker: Ability to see the big picture while managing granular details of complex proposals.Resilient & Proactive: Thrives under pressure in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.Collaborative Leader: Proven ability to influence and coordinate diverse, cross-functional teams without direct authority.Detail-Oriented: Meticulous attention to compliance, accuracy, and professional presentation.