Tendering / Estimation Manager - MEP - East Africa

Required: 10+ years in MEP tendering/estimation, with a strong track record of winning and pricing competitive bids. Strong in depth knowledge of MV/LV/ELV Electrical, Mechanical and Plumbing items used in MEP Installation works/projects. Knowledge of Power Distribution Sub Station and Solar is an added advantage

Qualification - Bachelors degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Quantity Surveying, or related field

Job Purpose

To lead the tendering and estimation function for MEP (Mechanical, Electrical Plumbing) projects, ensuring accurate, competitive, and technically sound bid submissions from tender identification through to contract award, while safeguarding the companys commercial interests and technical credibility.

Key Responsibilities

Tender Identification Bid Strategy

Track and identify tender opportunities in Uganda (and regionally) through client networks, consultants, tender portals, newspapers, and industry contacts.

Evaluate tender documents to assess project scope, risks, technical complexity, and commercial viability before committing resources to bid.

Develop bid win strategies in coordination with senior management, including pricing strategy, di erentiators, and partnership/JV considerations where required.

Decide on go/no-go recommendations for tender opportunities.

Estimation Cost Build-Up

Lead full take-o and quantification of MEP works (mechanical, electrical, plumbing, fire protection, HVAC, etc.) from drawings, specifications, and BOQs. Prepare detailed technical and commercial comparison chart, cost estimates covering materials, labor, plant/equipment, subcontractor packages, preliminaries, and overheads.

Obtain and evaluate supplier and subcontractor quotations to build competitive and accurate pricing. Apply appropriate risk allowances, escalation, and contingencies based on project conditions and contract terms. Ensure estimates align with project programs and constructability considerations.

Tender Document Preparation Submission

Compile complete, compliant tender submissions including technical proposals, method statements, pricing schedules, and supporting documentation.

Ensure tenders comply with client requirements, contract conditions (FIDIC or other applicable forms), and statutory/regulatory requirements.

Coordinate input from engineering, procurement, HSE, QA/QC, and commercial teams to produce integrated, high-quality submissions.

Manage tender clarifications, addenda, and pre-bid queries with clients/consultants within deadlines. Value Engineering Technical Review

Review design and specifications to identify value engineering opportunities, alternative solutions, and cost optimization without compromising quality or compliance. Liaise with design consultants and clients during pre-tender and clarification stages to refine scope and pricing assumptions.

Post-Tender Handover to Operations

Support post-tender negotiations, clarifications, and adjudication meetings with clients/consultants.

Prepare handover documentation (estimate build-up, assumptions, subcontractor/supplier commitments) to the project team upon contract award, ensuring a smooth transition from tender to execution.

Maintain a tender register and track win/loss rates, analyzing outcomes to improve future bid strategy and pricing accuracy.

Market Intelligence Database Management

Maintain and update a database of supplier/subcontractor rates, labor rates, and material costs for Uganda and the wider region.

Monitor market trends, competitor pricing, and industry benchmarks to keep estimating data current and competitive.

Build and maintain relationships with key suppliers, subcontractors, and consultants to support pricing accuracy and future collaboration.

Team Process Management

Supervise and mentor estimators/quantity surveyors within the tendering team.

Develop and standardize estimation templates, pricing tools, and tendering procedures to improve e iciency and consistency.

Ensure proper documentation and audit trail for all tender submissions and cost build-ups.