Bids Manager

Bids Manager (Maternity Cover) — Globally Renowned Architecture & Design Studio

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London (full-time, fixed-term, office-based) | c. £45,000–£55,000 depending on experience

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Ignis Partners is working with one of London's most respected international architecture and design practices to find an experienced Bids Manager for a fixed-term maternity cover contract. This is a great opportunity to lead the bidding function at a studio whose work shapes landmark buildings and public realm across the UK and internationally.

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The studio

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A large, established practice of 100+ designers, researchers and thinkers, this is a partner-led environment built around context-driven design, long-term value and a genuine commitment to climate and culture. The work spans landmark commercial towers, mixed-use neighbourhoods, healthcare and research campuses, and award-winning sustainable buildings. It's a creative, internationally minded studio with a friendly atmosphere, a modern central-London space and excellent transport links.

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The role

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Working as part of a small bidding team and reporting into business development, you'll lead and coordinate high-quality bid submissions across UK and international opportunities, working closely with partners, project teams and the wider business development function. Day to day, you'll:

• Lead and manage the bids function (currently a team of two), providing direction, oversight and professional development
• Prepare and coordinate bid submissions, applying strong knowledge of the RFP process in the UK and internationally
• Coordinate input from partners and project teams
• Tailor CVs, case studies and standard content for each submission
• Maintain the bid library and content database
• Review submissions for quality, accuracy and compliance
• Support interview preparation and presentation materials
• Track opportunities and bid outcomes
• Maintain sub-consultant relationships
• Manage vendor portals and keep registrations up to date
• Support global business development and maintain the practice's CRM

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What you'll bring

• 3+ years' experience preparing and coordinating architectural bid submissions, with demonstrable understanding of the bid management process
• Knowledge of the RFP process in both UK and international markets
• An architectural background or a strong interest in architecture, construction and the creative process
• An understanding of the design and procurement process; knowledge of contractual matters is an advantage
• A talent for writing concisely and clearly, with excellent attention to detail and a thorough approach
• Strong organisational, administrative and document-production skills
• Good working knowledge of MS Word, Excel, Adobe Acrobat, Photoshop and InDesign
• Proven ability to lead and develop a small business development team

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The person

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This is a small, close-knit team, so personality fit is vital. You'll be self-disciplined, entrepreneurial and confident in a creative environment — diplomatic but assertive, friendly but robust, able to challenge constructively and think on your feet. A relationship-builder who can influence cross-functionally, earn the trust of senior management and architectural staff alike, and stay calm and flexible under deadline pressure.

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The package

• Salary in the region of £45,000–£55,000, depending on experience
• Private healthcare, healthcare cash plan and pension scheme
• A globally fluent studio representing dozens of nationalities and languages
• Modern central-London studio in a vibrant location

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Please note: this is a full-time, fixed-term maternity cover role based in the London office. All candidates must have the right to work in the UK.

To apply, or for a confidential conversation about the role, get in touch with the team at Ignis Partners.

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