Job Description

Department

Marketing & Client Development

Contract Type

Full Time / Permanent

Location

Bristol / Exeter

Job Summary

Who You Are

We are seeking a proactive, engaging and detail-oriented Bids and Proposals Manager to lead the development and submission of high-quality, competitive proposals in response to client tenders and RFPs. Using bidding best practices, strategic insight, and creative writing skills, the manager will craft compelling, client-focused submissions that showcase our expertise, understanding of legal issues, and the benefits of working with our firm.




The successful candidate will be a strong internal networker -- someone who actively engages with stakeholders, asks insightful questions, and collaborates across departments to generate buy-in and create tailored, high-impact content. They will act as an ambassador for best practice bid processes, working closely with lead partners to ensure opportunities are fully supported and executed to the highest standard. Their ability to build relationships with lawyers and business support teams will be critical in encouraging investment of time and effort into each opportunity, ultimately driving improved bid success rates.

What You'll Do

As Bids and Proposals Manager, you'll lead the development and submission of competitive proposals, ensuring each opportunity is strategically positioned and professionally executed.

Bid Management

Own the end-to-end bid process, from qualification to final submission. Coordinate timelines, contributors, and compliance requirements across departments. Track performance metrics and support pipeline forecasting. Capture feedback and drive continuous improvement. Lead the bid team and collaborate with the wider marketing & development function.

Bid Writing

Conduct market and client research to inform response strategies. Interpret client requirements and develop win themes and messaging. Draft, tailor, and edit responses to ITTs and RFPs using best practice techniques. Finalise formatting and presentation to a high professional standard. Prepare and storyboard tender presentations; coach presenters to deliver with impact.

Proposals

Apply bid best practices to strategic quotes and cross-firm proposals. Collaborate with client relationship holders to uncover value propositions. Create high-quality pitch documents that reflect the firm's strengths.

Content Management

Maintain and evolve a library of standard responses, case studies, and capability statements. Ensure content is current, relevant, and aligned with strategic priorities.

Skills & Experience

Essential:

Proven experience in bid/proposal management within professional services. Strong project management and organisational skills. Excellent written and verbal communication. Ability to manage multiple bids under tight deadlines. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and bid management tools.

Desirable:

APMP certification or equivalent. Experience with public sector procurement (e.g., CCS, NHS SBS).

Your Career. Our Commitment.

At Ashfords, we believe in more than just doing great work - we believe in building a great place to work.




When you join us, you become part of a team where everything we do is underpinned by our four core values: Be Open, Think Team, Make a Difference and Always Grow. These values shape who we are and how we work - they guide our decisions, influence our culture, and drive the way we support our people, clients and communities.




With a clear focus on innovation, community involvement, and supporting a healthy work-life balance, we are committed to building an environment where our people can have a rewarding and meaningful career.




Whilst we recognise that every career journey is unique, we will be ambitious for you, giving you the tools, trust, and opportunities to develop your career, your way.


Our goal? To help you realise your full potential as part of a forward-thinking team.

Our offer

We know that our people are at the heart of everything we do - and that's why we're committed to supporting your wellbeing, growth and work-life balance.




Beyond our benefits package, you'll be encouraged, no matter what your role or career level, to get involved in our Responsible Business programme, where you'll support initiatives such as charity fundraising, environmental causes and our employee led diversity and inclusion groups.


You can find out more about our benefits by visiting the Reward & Wellbeing page on our website.

What's next?

Our recruitment process typically involves two stages, which are designed not only to explore your skills and experience but also to give you a real insight into what it's like to work at Ashfords. Throughout the process, our dedicated Talent Attraction team will be here to support you every step of the way.




We believe that building a firm with a wide range of perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences drives innovation and strengthens our teams, and we welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds.




To support your growth, we offer ongoing training and development opportunities to help you reach your full potential - so even if you don't feel you match all the requirements of the job role, we'd still love to hear from you.




At Ashfords, we're committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered to succeed.




If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process or would like to discuss anything regarding your application, please contact us at

talentattraction@ashfords.co.uk

.




For an informal and confidential discussion about this opportunity, please contact


Kitty Hughes, Talent Attraction Assistant - kr.hughes@ashfords.co.uk.




Or apply now, and we will be in touch with you as soon as possible.