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Bid Manager
Location: Poole, Dorset
Reporting to: Head of Bids
The Opportunity
Copello is supporting a leading engineering and defence-focused organisation in the recruitment of a Bid Manager. The role offers the opportunity to manage complex, high-value bids for advanced electronic systems supplied to global defence and maritime customers.
Our client designs, engineers, and manufactures mission-critical systems used in demanding environments worldwide, providing full lifecycle support from design through to in-service support.
Role Overview
The Bid Manager will manage the end-to-end bid lifecycle, from RFQ through to proposal submission, purchase order processing, contractual acceptance, and handover to delivery teams. The role works closely with sales, engineering, supply chain, and programme teams to ensure competitive and compliant submissions.
Key Responsibilities
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Lead and manage customer RFQs, defining scope, cost, risk, and opportunity
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Prepare tender and bid documentation in line with internal procedures
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Develop detailed cost models and estimates
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Identify and manage bid-related risks and opportunities
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Deliver bids within agreed timescales and approval frameworks
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Liaise and negotiate with customers and suppliers alongside senior stakeholders
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Process purchase orders and manage bid decision gates
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Ensure compliance with internal policies, KPIs, and governance
Candidate Profile
Skills & Attributes
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Proven experience delivering complex bids and tenders
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Ability to lead bid teams under pressure and tight deadlines
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Strong written and verbal communication skills
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Commercially aware with strong analytical capability
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Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; MS Project knowledge desirable
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Able to work independently and build strong stakeholder relationships
Experience & Qualifications
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Background in an engineering-led or project-driven environment
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Experience of gated bid or Business Winning Frameworks
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Strong proposal writing capability
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NVQ Level 4 or equivalent qualification, or relevant industry experience
This is an excellent opportunity for a Bid Manager to play a key role in securing technically complex programmes within a globally respected organisation.
