Senior Proposals Engineer - Fire Sprinklers

Description:

Senior Proposals Engineer - Fire Sprinklers

Salary/Package - £75,000 - £80,000 Basic + Car + Bonus + Benefits

Location - London/South East

Permanent Position - Hybrid Role

About the Company

Our client is a well-established LPCB Level 4 accredited fire sprinkler contractor operating within the UK sprinkler industry, delivering the design, installation, and maintenance of fire sprinkler systems across commercial, industrial, and residential projects. With a strong pipeline of work and an excellent reputation across the sector, they are now seeking an experienced Sales/Estimating/Proposals Manager to lead their pre-construction function and drive continued growth.

The Role

This is a pivotal role bridging business development, technical estimating, and proposal delivery. You will take ownership of the full bid lifecycle from initial enquiry and cost estimation through to proposal writing and contract handover, while also playing an active role in identifying and securing new business opportunities across the fire sprinkler market.

You'll work closely with design, project delivery, and senior management teams to ensure estimates are commercially sound, technically accurate, and aligned with LPCB/BS EN 12845 and other relevant fire sprinkler standards.

Key Responsibilities

Manage the end-to-end estimating and tender process for fire sprinkler projects, from enquiry through to contract award
Prepare accurate, competitive, and commercially viable cost estimates and proposals
Review tender documentation, specifications, and drawings to scope project requirements
Liaise with suppliers and subcontractors to obtain pricing and ensure competitive procurement
Lead the production of high-quality, professional proposal documents and presentations
Identify and develop new business opportunities within the UK fire sprinkler sector
Build and maintain relationships with consultants, main contractors, developers, and end clients
Attend client meetings, site visits, and pre-tender briefings as required
Support contract handover to the project delivery team, ensuring a smooth transition from sale to execution
Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and pipeline opportunities to inform sales strategy
Ensure all estimates and proposals comply with relevant fire sprinkler standards (BS EN 12845, LPCB, FM Global, and NFPA where applicable)
Manage and mentor junior estimating or proposals staff, where applicableCandidate Requirements

Proven experience in an estimating, sales, or proposals role within the fire sprinkler or wider fire protection industry
Strong technical understanding of sprinkler system design principles and UK fire protection standards
Demonstrable experience preparing tenders, cost estimates, and client-facing proposals
Commercially astute, with the ability to balance competitive pricing against profitability
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong attention to detail
Confident presenting to clients and building long-term relationships
Proficient with estimating software and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
Self-motivated, organised, and capable of managing multiple tenders simultaneously
Full UK driving licenceDesirable

Relevant fire industry qualifications (e.g. FIA, IFE, or LPCB-related certifications)
Experience with CAD or sprinkler design software
Existing network of contacts within UK main contractors, consultants, or developersWe understand the importance of keeping everything confidential and being totally transparent when it comes to who the company is. This is why when you apply with Alecto, we will talk you through the process, the job and the company before your CV is sent anywhere.

Please note, Alecto Recruitment are acting as an employment business in relation to this position. INDSB