Head of Pre Construction

Role Overview

The Head of Pre-Construction is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing and managing all pre-construction activities across the business. This includes estimating, tendering, budgeting, value engineering, design coordination, programming, and early client engagement.

Working closely with the Managing Director, Project Managers, and key external stakeholders, the Head of Pre-Construction ensures that projects are accurately costed, commercially viable, well planned, and effectively transitioned from tender to delivery.

This role is critical to winning work, protecting margins, managing risk, and setting projects up for successful execution, particularly within a medium-sized construction and specialist fit-out environment.

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Key Responsibilities

Pre-Construction & Tender Management

Lead the end-to-end pre-construction process from early feasibility through to contract award.

Oversee the preparation of accurate, competitive, and commercially sound estimates and tenders.

Review tender documentation, scopes, drawings, and specifications to identify risks, opportunities, and ambiguities.

Drive value engineering initiatives to optimise cost, buildability, and programme without compromising quality.

Ensure all tenders align with company strategy, capacity, and risk appetite.

Estimating & Cost Planning

Manage and mentor the estimating team, ensuring consistent methodologies and standards.

Develop detailed cost plans, budgets, and cash flow forecasts.

Lead subcontractor and supplier pricing strategies, negotiations, and package scoping.

Maintain up-to-date cost data, benchmarking, and market intelligence.

Design & Buildability Coordination

Coordinate early design input with consultants, subcontractors, and internal delivery teams.

Provide construction and fit-out expertise during design development to improve buildability and reduce risk.

Identify design gaps, inconsistencies, and opportunities for alternative solutions.

Programme & Methodology

Develop high-level construction programmes and methodologies during tender and pre-construction phases.

Collaborate with delivery teams to ensure programmes are realistic, achievable, and aligned with resources.

Identify critical path activities and potential constraints early.

Commercial & Risk Management

Lead risk identification workshops and ensure appropriate allowances and mitigation strategies are built into tenders.

Support contract strategy, including procurement routes, contract terms, and conditions.

Assist with final negotiations and handover to the delivery team post-award.

Client & Stakeholder Engagement

Act as a key point of contact for clients, consultants, and key stakeholders during pre-construction.

Support business development activities, including early contractor involvement (ECI) and negotiated opportunities.

Represent the company professionally in client meetings, presentations, and interviews.

Leadership & Continuous Improvement

Build, lead, and develop a high-performing pre-construction and estimating function.

Implement and improve systems, processes, and templates to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

Foster collaboration between pre-construction and construction teams to ensure seamless project handovers.

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Key Skills & Experience

Essential

Proven experience in a senior pre-construction, estimating, or commercial leadership role.

Strong background in construction and/or specialist fit-out projects.

Demonstrated success in winning and delivering profitable projects.

Excellent understanding of construction methodologies, procurement, and contract forms.

Strong commercial acumen with the ability to manage risk and margins.

Advanced stakeholder management and communication skills.

Ability to lead, mentor, and develop teams.

Desirable

Experience in Design & Construct (D&C) and negotiated contract environments.

Relevant construction, engineering, or quantity surveying qualifications.

Experience working in a medium-sized or growing construction business.

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Personal Attributes

Strategic thinker with a hands-on approach.

Commercially astute and detail-oriented.

Strong leadership presence and decision-making capability.

Collaborative, solutions-focused, and client-centric.

Resilient and adaptable in a fast-paced environment.

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What We Offer

Senior leadership role with influence over business performance and growth.

Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.

Opportunity to work on diverse and high-quality construction and fit-out projects.

Supportive and collaborative company culture.

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This position plays a pivotal role in shaping the companys project pipeline, profitability, and long-term success.