Senior Estimator

Job description

Senior Estimator

Establishing and Leading a Formal Estimating Department

Location: London

Salary £80 - £100K DOE

The Opportunity

A senior-level opportunity for an experienced Estimator to establish and lead a formal Estimating Department within a well-established construction business.

This role represents a strategic shift from director-led estimating to a structured, scalable function. The successful candidate will take ownership of building systems, driving tender performance, and shaping the commercial future of the business.

This is a leadership position with a clear pathway into senior management.

The Role

Department Leadership

• Design and implement a structured Estimating Department
• Develop standardised systems, procedures, and controls
• Introduce modern estimating tools and data-led methodologies
• Create scalable processes to support business growth

Tendering and Commercial Delivery

• Prepare accurate and competitive cost estimates and tender submissions
• Analyse drawings, specifications, and contract documentation
• Identify commercial risks and value-engineering opportunities
• Ensure tenders align with profitability targets and business strategy
• Manage pricing strategies and bid submissions end-to-end

Strategic Contribution

• Improve tender success rates and margin performance
• Provide commercial insight to directors and senior leadership
• Support market analysis, frameworks, and new business opportunities
• Establish benchmarking and performance tracking metrics

Stakeholder Engagement

• Work closely with directors, project managers, and business development teams
• Build strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and subcontractors
• Lead negotiations and secure competitive supply chain pricing
• Present structured reports and recommendations to senior leadership

Candidate Profile

Experience and Expertise

• Proven track record in construction estimating at a senior level
• Experience across refurbishment, public sector, or mixed-use projects desirable
• Strong understanding of construction methodology, contracts, and compliance
• Proficient in estimating software and digital systems
• Strong commercial acumen and analytical capability

Leadership and Personal Qualities

• Capable of building and leading a new function
• Hands-on approach combined with strategic thinking
• Commercially focused and performance-driven
• Confident communicator with client-facing experience
• Ambition to progress into senior leadership

Career Development

• Opportunity to build and shape a core business function
• Direct influence on commercial strategy and business performance
• Clear progression route into senior management
• Scope to develop and mentor a growing estimating team

This is a rare opportunity to move beyond a traditional estimating role and take ownership of building a department that will define the next stage of business growth.

Must be present in the UK, no sponsorship

No hybrid work ( 5 days in office non negotiable)

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

London

Type of Contract

Full-time jobs

Published at

06-03-2026

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English