Estimating Manager

Estimating Manager

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Estimating Manager to lead and manage the estimating function. This role will be critical in shaping competitive tender strategies, mentoring estimators, and collaborating with senior leadership to support the continued growth and success of the business.

Main Purpose of the Role

To oversee the estimating function and provide leadership in preparing accurate, commercially sound, and strategically aligned tender submissions. The Estimating Manager will manage the estimating team and processes, liaise with internal departments and external supply chain partners, and ensure the delivery of high-quality bids in line with business objectives.

You will be responsible for managing and improving estimating procedures, reporting, and resource allocation, and for driving consistency and best practices across all tender activities.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Management

Lead and manage the estimating team, providing guidance, support, and mentoring to ensure high performance.

Oversee the full tendering process from initial enquiry to final submission.

Support the development of junior estimators and contribute to succession planning within the department.

Coordinate resources and ensure team workloads align with deadlines and business priorities.

Estimating & Tender Management

Conduct high-level tender reviews to assess suitability for bid submission.

Work with senior leadership to establish bid strategies, win themes, and programme considerations.

Allocate estimating resources and ensure deadlines are met across all tenders.

Lead reviews of tender documentation, identifying gaps or risks and initiating clarifications via TQ processes.

Manage the preparation and issue of accurate, complete subcontractor and supplier enquiries.

Review and analyse subcontractor quotations, resolve qualifications, and ensure alignment with the project scope.

Ensure first-principle estimating methods are applied and aligned with market trends and internal data.

Oversee compilation of tender deliverables, including risk registers, ACAL lists, qualifications, and commercial summaries.

Ensure tender submissions are signed off by senior leadership and delivered on time.

Reporting & Strategy

Provide regular reporting to senior management, including bid status, pipeline visibility, and win/loss ratios.

Maintain and develop estimating databases, templates, and benchmarking tools.

Identify areas for improvement across estimating practices and implement efficiencies or system changes.

Monitor supply chain performance and update approved lists in conjunction with procurement and operations.

Commercial & Business Development

Support the Commercial Director and Managing Director in identifying and securing new business opportunities.

Review platforms such as Barbour ABI and other lead sources for upcoming tenders.

Liaise with clients, consultants, and main contractors during tender negotiations and post-submission reviews.

Assist with bids for non-traditional workstreams such as frameworks, negotiated contracts, and design & build.

Safety & Compliance

Collaborate with operations and HSEQ teams to ensure bids reflect appropriate safety, quality, and environmental considerations.

Ensure internal governance, risk, and approval processes are followed throughout tender submissions.

Key Requirements

Proven experience in a senior estimating or estimating management role within the construction sector.

Strong technical background in construction, ideally with experience across civils, concrete, and main contracting.

Effective leadership and people management skills.

Excellent commercial awareness and analytical skills.

Proficient in estimating software and Microsoft Office suite.

Able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Relevant qualifications in Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, or Construction Management.

What’s on Offer

Competitive salary and benefits package.

Opportunity to shape and grow the estimating function of a well-established contractor.

Supportive team environment and strong pipeline of work.

Based in Aberdeenshire, with national project reach.

Send CV to j.murdoch@acreo.uk

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