Head of Estimating

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in United Kingdom.

📋 Description

• Provide strategic direction for the Estimating function

• Deliver precise, competitive, and commercially sound estimates and bids for Clean Water and Wastewater projects

• Lead, manage, and nurture a national estimating team

• Offer coaching, mentoring, and performance management

• Establish and uphold estimating standards, processes, and best practices

• Oversee the preparation, review, validation, and submission of estimates, tenders, and cost plans

• Examine tender documentation, specifications, drawings, and contractual requirements to pinpoint risks, opportunities, and value engineering solutions

• Challenge and validate pricing methodologies, assumptions, and cost build-ups

• Assist in contract negotiations and provide commercial advice during bid clarification and award phases

• Cultivate relationships with clients, framework partners, consultants, subcontractors, and suppliers

• Collaborate with operational, commercial, procurement, and business development teams to devise bid strategies

• Represent the organization at client meetings, tender interviews, and industry events

• Secure competitive pricing from the supply chain and identify cost-saving opportunities

• Drive continuous improvement of estimating tools, systems, templates, and cost databases

• Analyze estimating performance, bid success rates, and market trends

• Ensure adherence to policies, governance, quality, health, and safety requirements

• Support digital tools and innovative methods to enhance efficiency and accuracy

• Assist in project transitions from bid phase to execution

• Participate in post-tender reviews, lessons learned sessions, and commercial performance evaluations

• Capture and disseminate estimating knowledge and insights throughout the organization

⛳️ Requirements

• Demonstrated experience leading estimating teams in the water, utilities, infrastructure, construction, or civil engineering sectors

• Strong grasp of estimating, cost planning, bid management, and commercial risk

• Proven track record in delivering complex tenders, framework bids, and major project estimates

• Exceptional leadership, stakeholder management, communication, and negotiation abilities

• Strong analytical skills and commercial insight, with the capacity to manage multiple priorities

• Proficient in estimating software, cost databases, and Microsoft Office Suite

• Valid UK driving license and willingness to travel nationwide

• Experience within the regulated water industry, including AMP programmes and Term Service Contracts

• Knowledge of Clean Water and Wastewater infrastructure projects

• Familiarity with NEC contracts and framework-based delivery models

• Experience in implementing estimating systems, process enhancements, and digital tools

• Understanding of value engineering, benchmarking, and whole-life costing principles

🏝️ Benefits

• Opportunities for professional growth

• Commitment to diversity and inclusion

• Equal opportunities for all employees

• Flexible location across the UK

• Travel to operational sites and offices as necessary