As Pre-Construction Manager, you lead cost planning, tender strategy, and risk management for complex fit-out projects in London. You will shape bid strategy and commercial robustness within the Estimating and Tendering function, collaborating with design, delivery, and business development teams. The role emphasizes aligning pre-construction outputs with project delivery and JLL standards to win profitable work. You’ll work on Cat A/B projects with a strong governance and sustainability focus, delivering measurable impact on margins and delivery quality.
Pay / Benefits
competitive salary package
car allowance
28 days annual leave plus bank holidays
private medical insurance
life assurance
wellbeing support
Responsibilities
Lead preparation of cost plans, estimates, and tender submissions for fit-out projects typically 1m–5m+
Review architectural, structural, MEP information, employer’s requirements, and contract docs
Develop aligned cost strategies during bid and pre-contract stages
Produce detailed cost breakdowns, work packages, and pricing schedules (Excel and estimating software)
Develop pricing strategies balancing competitiveness with margin protection
Maintain and update pre-construction budgets through design development
Prepare and contribute to go/no-go bid assessments
Support internal tender reviews and pitch rehearsals
Manage subcontractor and supplier enquiries across all trade packages
Assess and compare subcontractor tenders and negotiate commercial terms
Lead subcontractor interviews and challenge scope, pricing, and programme assumptions
Develop and maintain relationships with key supply chain partners
Support PSL development with procurement and supply chain leads
Develop pre-contract programmes, procurement schedules, and design timelines
Identify long-lead items, temporary works, and specialist packages
Prepare logistics strategies for constrained London sites
Coordinate RFI processes during pre-construction
Support method statements and buildability reviews
Ensure sustainability requirements (BREEAM, LEED, WELL) are integrated in planning
Prepare and present pre-contract cost information and tender submissions to clients
Attend client interviews and bid presentations
Provide buildability, cost, and value engineering advice during bid/pre-contract
Coordinate with design, commercial, and delivery teams for alignment
Support business development with technical and commercial input
Assist with collation and review of pre-contract docs and schedules
Ensure accurate handover of pre-construction information to delivery teams
Attend post-handover meetings for continuity
Key requirements
6+ years in pre-construction, estimating, or commercial management within London fit-out
Proven track record delivering bids on Cat A and Cat B projects
Experience with 1m–5m+ projects including refurbishments and live environments
Strong understanding of commercial risk and cost control
Degree in construction-related discipline or equivalent
MCIOB, RICS, or similar accreditation preferred
Clear and confident communicator
Analytical and problem-solving mindset
Detail-oriented with structured approach
Strong knowledge of construction methods and materials
Knowledge of MEP systems and ability to discuss with clients
Experience with estimating software and advanced Excel
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