Pre-Contracts Manager

Job Summary

The Pre-Contracts Manager is responsible for leading all pre-contract and tendering activities for design and build fit-out projects. The role involves managing the complete bid lifecycle, from tender review and estimation through commercial evaluation and proposal submission, ensuring competitive, compliant, and commercially viable bids that support the company's business growth objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the pre-contracts, estimation, and bid management function for interior fit-out and design & build projects.
• Review tender documents, drawings, specifications, and commercial requirements to determine project scope and bid strategy.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates, BOQs, budgets, and commercial proposals for fit-out projects.
• Coordinate with design, engineering, procurement, and operations teams to develop accurate and competitive submissions.
• Identify project risks, opportunities, exclusions, and value engineering options during the tender stage.
• Obtain and evaluate quotations from suppliers, subcontractors, and specialist vendors.
• Negotiate commercial terms and pricing with subcontractors and suppliers to optimize project costs.
• Manage the preparation, compilation, and submission of tender packages within required deadlines.
• Conduct technical and commercial bid evaluations and recommend pricing strategies.
• Attend client meetings, tender interviews, and pre-bid/post-bid clarification meetings.
• Prepare and present tender adjudication reports and management approval documents.
• Support contract negotiations and handover of awarded projects to the project delivery team.
• Maintain tender databases, cost benchmarks, supplier pricing records, and historical project cost information.
• Develop and implement best practices, processes, and procedures for the pre-contracts function.
• Lead, mentor, and develop estimators, quantity surveyors, and bid management team members.
• Support business development initiatives by identifying opportunities, reviewing market trends, and strengthening client relationships.

Required Skills & Competencies

• Estimation and cost planning
• BOQ preparation and quantity take-offs
• Tender management and bid coordination
• Commercial analysis and cost control
• Value engineering
• Procurement and subcontractor management
• Contract administration
• Risk assessment and mitigation
• Strong negotiation and stakeholder management skills
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Leadership and team management
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and estimation software
• Knowledge of FIDIC and standard construction contracts

Preferred Experience

• 10+ years of experience in estimation, quantity surveying, or pre-contract management within interior fit-out, design & build, or construction companies.
• Proven experience managing large-scale commercial, hospitality, retail, residential, and workplace fit-out projects.
• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or a related field.