Head of Bids and Proposals
Location: Hybrid role based at either Greenford, Loudwater or Weymouth
Safeguarding the Seas Through Innovation
Step into a world where cutting-edge technology meets mission-critical expertise. This organisation delivers advanced multi-mission maritime solutions that protect and empower naval forces across allied nations worldwide.
As the maritime and underwater battlespace continues to evolve, the focus remains on pushing boundaries—developing specialist systems that give defence customers a decisive operational edge. From surface and sub-surface platforms to unmanned systems, the work carried out here is shaping the future of naval warfare.
Collaboration is at the heart of success. By working closely with customers, this organisation delivers world-class solutions across sonar, radar, expendables, signature management, and naval power systems—ensuring mission success at sea and below it.
Flexible Working
Your personal life matters just as much as your professional one. Flexible working arrangements are actively supported, including hybrid, remote, or on-site options where possible.
Opportunities may include:
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Flexible start and finish times
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Part-time or compressed hours
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A 9-day fortnight at select locations
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Time Off in Lieu (TOIL) of up to one day per month
There is a strong culture of trust, integrity, and flexibility, recognising that people are central to business success.
The Role: Head of Bids and Proposals
As Head of Bids and Proposals, you will lead the successful delivery of high-quality, compelling bid submissions across all business segments—from new product development and mature product delivery to through-life support.
You will be responsible for embedding a consistent, efficient, and best-in-class tender production process, driving excellence throughout the entire bid lifecycle.
Key responsibilities include:
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Leading and mentoring the bid production and administration teams
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Owning the proposal review process and driving continuous improvement
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Managing bid resources, schedules, and governance
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Ensuring proposals are compliant, competitive, and strategically aligned
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Supporting future business planning through opportunity mapping into the SIOP process
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Tracking competitor activity and gathering customer intelligence
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Communicating successful contract awards across the organisation
About You
You will be a confident and commercially astute leader with a proven track record of delivering winning bids in complex environments.
Essential experience and skills:
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Demonstrated success delivering high-quality bids to schedule
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Strong knowledge of bid management best practice
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Experience in large or corporate business environments
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Excellent project management skills with strong attention to detail
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Ability to manage multiple complex bids under tight deadlines
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Exceptional communication and influencing skills at senior levels
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Commercial awareness with strong business development insight
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Experience mentoring and leading diverse teams
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Proficiency in MS Office
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Degree qualified (or equivalent experience)
Security & Nationality Requirements
Due to the nature of the programmes delivered, candidates must be eligible to obtain the relevant UK Government Security Clearance.
Holding existing clearance is advantageous but not essential.
Relocation Support
Relocation support may be available for candidates moving within the UK. This is considered on a case-by-case basis and in line with HMRC guidelines.
Diversity & Inclusion
This is an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity, inclusion, equity, and equality. Applications are welcomed from all backgrounds, and the organisation is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive and be their authentic self.