Head of Estimating

Head of Estimating – London / Home Counties / Hybrid - c£80k-£90k+package
Founded over 30 years ago, this company is a leading technical specialist in engineering maintenance services. They specialise in the creation and maintenance of tailor-made business environments - having shaped workspaces for a wide range of businesses across the country.
Their heritage lies in their ability to design and regulate unique spaces and were founded upon three core values: trust, reliability and care and are an essential part of their clients’ business.
The last couple of years has seen them grow exponentially and 2025 is no exception. Their client base continues to grow month on month and as a result they are now looking for a talented Head of Estimating to join them on their continued upward journey.
About the Role:
As Head of Estimating, you will play a strategic leadership role, overseeing and developing a team of technical estimators responsible for site visits, asset tagging, condition reporting, and producing technical quotations.
You will ensure the delivery of accurate, competitive, and commercially viable bids and cost plans for a wide variety of engineering and hard FM service projects.
You will be responsible for shaping estimating strategy, collaborating with internal teams and external partners, and driving consistency and innovation across all estimating activity.
Travel will be required to clients sites.
This is a senior leadership position reporting to the Director of Quality.
What you will be responsible for:
Lead, manage, and develop a high-performing national estimating team.
Provide mentorship, training, and performance management to ensure departmental success.
Promote a culture of accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement.
Oversee the preparation, validation, and submission of high-quality estimates and competitive bids.
Review and analyse tender documentation for completeness and risk.
Support quantity take-offs and apply first principles estimating where applicable.
Independently review and verify pricing submitted by others, identifying areas for
improvement.
Work closely with procurement to secure market-competitive quotes and identify cost-saving opportunities.
Collaborate with operational teams to develop bid strategies and methodologies aligned with project requirements.
Participate in project reviews, handovers, and post-bid assessments to capture lessons
learned.
Develop strong relationships with clients, consultants, and subcontractors.
Contribute to contract negotiations and ensure commercial risks are identified and mitigated.
Lead supplier feedback processes and work closely with procurement to build a robust and reliable supply chain.
Drive improvements in estimating tools, templates, and systems, including the development of cost libraries.
Ensure all estimating activities comply with company policies, health and safety regulations, and management systems.
Assist in refining internal procedures for estimating and procurement processes.
Qualifications & Experience
Proven experience in a senior estimating role within hard FM services, mechanical or building engineering.
Strong understanding of asset lifecycle, condition reporting, and technical surveying.
Track record of delivering multidisciplinary infrastructure tenders from conception to
completion.
Proficiency in estimating software, cost planning tools, and Microsoft Office Suite.
Experience working with national frameworks and large-scale projects.
Skills & Attributes
Exceptional leadership, coaching, and team development skills.
High level of commercial acumen and strategic thinking.
Strong analytical skills with the ability to assess financial risk and opportunity.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for engaging with stakeholders at all levels.
Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and site conditions effectively.
Organised, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
Desirable
Degree or relevant qualifications in Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or Construction
Management.
Membership of a professional body such as RICS, CIBSE, or CIOB.
Experience in implementing new estimating platforms or digital tools.
THE PACKAGE
Competitive Salary – c£80k-£90k+package (poss flexibility on salary)
Company Car.
25 Days holiday plus bank holidays.
Flexibility for hybrid working.
Health care, life insurance and medical insurance available after a qualifying period.