Bid Manager

Newbury (preferred) or Milton Keynes

Are you an experienced Bid Manager who enjoys bringing people together to shape clear, compelling proposals? Do you thrive in environments where collaboration, curiosity and thoughtful challenge lead to better outcomes? If so, this could be a great next step.

We're looking for someone with solid experience in bid management gained within the construction sector. You may have worked on bids for schools, defence, healthcare or commercial projects — or perhaps you bring experience from similar complex environments and are ready to apply it in a new setting. The core question is: Do you know how to turn technical ideas into a story that resonates with clients?

In this role, you'll guide the bid process from early engagement through to final submission. Instead of simply coordinating documents, you'll help shape the narrative: What matters most to this client? What's the clearest way to explain our methodology? How do we ensure our commercial, operational and technical inputs all tell one joined‑up story? You'll work closely with colleagues across the business to bring clarity, structure and direction to each bid, ensuring every section is thought through and aligned.

You'll also play an important part in preparing teams for interviews. Your ability to bring people together, encourage good conversations and maintain momentum will be key.

Because our bid team is primarily based in Newbury, we would ideally like this role to sit there. However, we are equally open to Cambridge as a base. 

We're looking for someone who is organised, calm under pressure, and comfortable shaping ideas with a variety of stakeholders. If you enjoy asking thoughtful questions, creating clarity where there is complexity, and helping teams put their best foot forward, this could be the right fit.

If this sounds like a role where you could make a difference, we would love to hear from you.

What you will bring: 

• Substantial experience of leading bids for large/major construction projects.

What we will offer you: 

• A competitive salary and benefits package
• Be part of a purpose-led, family-owned business with a strong commitment to social value.
• Work on meaningful projects that make a real difference to communities.
• A supportive and inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves at work.
• Opportunities for professional development and long-term career progression

Our commitments: 

Wates is proud to be an employer where anyone can thrive, and we welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds.  We encourage you to apply even if you don't meet every requirement, as we value transferable skills and assess all applications fairly.

We don't discriminate based on a criminal record; all applications are reviewed on an individual basis against the requirements of the role. Some roles may require additional checks, due to the nature of the work.  As a Disability Confident Leader, we offer an interview to applicants with a disability who meet the minimum criteria for the role and opt in to the Disability Confident scheme.  Reasonable adjustments are available, please contact us at recruitment@wates.co.uk