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Pre-Construction Manager – Tetris UK

About Tetris / JLL

Tetris UK is a leading design and build fit-out contractor operating within JLL, delivering high-quality interior solutions across the commercial and retail sectors. With over 20 years of industry experience, Tetris has built a strong reputation for delivering complex Cat A and Cat B projects for blue-chip clients across London and the South East. Typical project values range from £1m to £12m, with a significant proportion of work secured through repeat business.

As the business continues to grow, Tetris UK is strengthening its pre-construction capability to ensure robust commercial governance, accurate cost planning, and consistent bid performance aligned with JLL standards and values.

Role Overview

The Pre-Construction Manager will play a role within the Estimating and Tendering function, with responsibility for leading the pre-construction phase of complex fit-out projects. The role focuses on cost planning, tender strategy, supply chain engagement, risk management, and effective handover into delivery teams.

Working closely with the Head of Pre-Construction, Design Director, Head of Build, and Business Development teams, the role will influence bid strategy, ensure commercial robustness, and support the securing of profitable new work.

Key Responsibilities

Tender Management & Cost Planning

Lead the preparation of detailed cost plans, estimates, and tender submissions for fit-out projects typically ranging from £1m–£5m+

Review and analyse architectural, structural, and MEP information, employer’s requirements, fit-out guides, and contract documentation

Interpret client briefs and develop aligned cost strategies during bid and pre-contract stages

Produce detailed cost breakdowns, work packages, and pricing schedules (primarily using Excel and estimating software)

Develop pricing strategies that balance competitiveness with margin protection

Maintain and update pre-construction budgets through design development

Prepare and contribute to go / no-go bid assessments

Support and attend internal tender reviews and pitch rehearsals

Supply Chain & Subcontractor Management

Manage subcontractor and supplier enquiries across all trade packages

Assess and compare subcontractor tender returns, including technical and commercial reviews

Lead subcontractor interviews and challenge scope, pricing, and programme assumptions

Negotiate commercial terms to achieve best value and reduce risk

Develop and maintain strong relationships with key supply chain partners

Support preferred supplier list (PSL) development in collaboration with procurement and supply chain leads

Pre-Construction Planning & Strategy

Develop pre-contract programmes, procurement schedules, and design development timelines

Identify long-lead items, temporary works requirements, and specialist subcontract packages

Prepare logistics strategies for constrained and complex London sites

Coordinate RFI processes during pre-construction

Support the preparation of method statements and buildability reviews

Ensure sustainability requirements (BREEAM, LEED, WELL) are understood and integrated into pre-construction planning

Client & Stakeholder Engagement

Prepare and present pre-contract cost information and tender submissions to clients

Attend and contribute to client interviews and bid presentations

Provide buildability, cost, and value engineering advice during the bid and pre-contract phase

Coordinate closely with design, commercial, and delivery teams to ensure alignment

Support business development activity through technical and commercial input

Contract & Handover

Support collation and review of pre-contract documentation, including scopes, specifications, and schedules

Assist with contract particulars, amendments, and collateral warranty requirements in coordination with legal and commercial teams

Ensure accurate and structured handover of all pre-construction information to project delivery teams

Attend initial post-handover meetings to ensure continuity and clarity

Leadership & Team Management

Mentor estimators and/or Junior commercial team members

Allocate resources across multiple bids and pre-construction activities

Support the development and upskilling of junior commercial staff

Promote consistent processes, standards, and best practice across the estimating function

Contribute to wider commercial strategy and forecasting at senior level

Health, Safety & Compliance

Ensure pre-construction activities comply with CDM regulations and JLL health and safety standards

Support compliance with Building Regulations, Planning conditions, and statutory requirements

Adhere to JLL policies relating to governance, compliance, sustainability, and ethics

Experience & Qualifications

6+ years’ experience in pre-construction, estimating, or commercial management within the London fit-out sector

Proven experience delivering successful bids on Cat A and Cat B projects

Track record on projects typically £1m–£5m+, with exposure to complex refurbishments and live environments

Strong understanding of commercial risk and cost control

Degree-qualified in a construction-related discipline or equivalent

MCIOB, RICS, or similar professional accreditation preferred

Technical Knowledge & Skills

Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, and London market rates

Working knowledge of MEP systems and ability to discuss them at a high level with clients

Experience with estimating software and advanced Excel

Familiarity with BIM-based take-offs and digital workflows preferred

Knowledge of JCT, NEC, and Design & Build contracts

Understanding of modern construction techniques, including modular and prefabrication

Personal Attributes

Clear and confident communicator

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Detail-oriented with a structured approach

Able to work under pressure and manage competing deadlines

Collaborative and professional working style

Commercially astute and pragmatic

What We Offer

Competitive salary package

Car allowance

28 days annual leave plus bank holidays (with option to purchase additional days)

Private medical insurance, life assurance, and wellbeing support

Generous pension scheme

Ongoing professional development and support for professional memberships

Clear progression opportunities within JLL and Tetris UK

Central London office with excellent transport links

Location:

If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet all of the requirements.  We’re interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!

At JLL, we harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to efficiently accelerate meaningful connections between candidates and opportunities. Using AI capabilities, we analyze your application for relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications to generate valuable insights about how your unique profile aligns with the specific requirements of the role you're pursuing.

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