Principal Pre-construction

At Unispace, we are committed to transforming workplaces to meet the diverse needs of today’s dynamic global brands. Our agile, end-to-end approach is delivered seamlessly across borders, fueled by strong client partnerships and supported by insightful workplace intelligence and innovative technology.

We believe that everyone deserves to work in an environment that inspires productivity, fosters peak performance, and promotes overall well-being. Across our 48 global studios, we recognize that positive work environments cultivate open, collaborative, and supportive cultures, enriched by the contributions of independent and motivated individuals from all backgrounds.

While our core business revolves around strategizing, designing, and building workplaces for some of the world's leading brands, we understand that our people are our greatest asset. We prioritize their growth and well-being through a comprehensive Employee Value Proposition program that includes rewards and recognition, career development opportunities, and a strong focus on mental and physical well-being.

To further support our team, we embrace flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working options that empower our employees to balance in-office collaboration with remote work flexibility. This approach not only enhances work-life balance but also allows us to harness the full potential of our diverse and talented workforce.

Role Profile

As a Principal Preconstruction professional based in Paris, you will be a key leader in Unispace's design and build delivery model, driving the successful acquisition and initiation of complex projects across France and the broader European market. This critical role involves leading and managing all preconstruction activities, from initial client engagement and concept development through to detailed cost planning, risk assessment, and successful project handover to the delivery team. You will be instrumental in translating client visions into viable, cost-effective, and constructible solutions.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Bid Leadership & Management: Lead and oversee the entire preconstruction process for strategic opportunities, including developing comprehensive bid strategies, managing tender submissions, and ensuring alignment with client expectations and Unispace's capabilities. Drive client engagement and build strong relationships during the pursuit phase.

• Cost Management & Estimating Expertise: Prepare detailed cost estimates, budgets, and financial analyses for various project stages (concept, schematic, design development, construction documents). Conduct value engineering exercises to optimize costs without compromising design integrity or project performance.

• Risk & Opportunity Assessment: Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate preconstruction-specific risks, including site conditions, constructability challenges, long-lead items, regulatory compliance (local French building codes), and market fluctuations. Identify opportunities to add value and enhance project delivery.

• Stakeholder Collaboration & Integration: Collaborate extensively with internal teams (Design, Strategy, Project Management, Operations, Procurement) and external partners (clients, subcontractors, consultants) to ensure seamless information flow, coordinated efforts, and integrated solutions from project inception.

• Commercial & Contract Review: Review and analyze commercial terms, scope definitions, and contractual requirements in client and subcontractor agreements, advising on commercial viability, risk allocation, and optimal procurement strategies.

• Market Intelligence & Supply Chain Engagement: Maintain a deep understanding of local market conditions in Paris and France, including labor costs, material pricing, and subcontractor capabilities. Engage with the supply chain to secure competitive bids and innovative solutions.

• Process Improvement & Innovation: Continuously refine and optimize preconstruction processes, tools, and methodologies to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and competitiveness. Contribute to the development of best practices within the global preconstruction team.

• Mentorship & Team Development: Provide leadership, guidance, and mentorship to junior preconstruction team members, fostering a culture of excellence, continuous learning, and professional growth.

• Reporting & Performance Analysis: Prepare clear, concise, and compelling reports for clients and senior management on project costs, schedules, risks, and overall preconstruction progress. Analyze bid performance and win rates to inform future strategies.

Skills & Experiences

• Proven experience (typically 8+ years) in a senior Preconstruction, Estimating, or Quantity Surveying role, with significant experience in the commercial real estate, design & build, or general contracting sector.

• Strong understanding of all phases of the design and construction process, with a focus on commercial fit-out projects.

• Exceptional ability in detailed cost estimating, budget management, and value engineering.

• Demonstrated experience in identifying, assessing, and mitigating construction-related risks during the preconstruction phase.

• Expertise in reviewing and interpreting complex commercial contracts and technical specifications.

• Advanced proficiency in relevant estimating software and project management tools.

• Excellent negotiation, presentation, and communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical and financial information clearly to diverse audiences.

• Strong analytical abilities and meticulous attention to detail.

• Ability to manage multiple complex pursuits simultaneously in a fast-paced, dynamic international environment.

• Fluency in both French and English is required.

• Relevant professional qualification (e.g., Chartered Quantity Surveyor - RICS, or equivalent relevant French qualification) is highly desirable.

What We Offer

In return, you will receive a competitive salary and a generous benefits package, including a pension, paid holiday leave, and travel opportunities across our global offices. Unispace values its employees and offers extensive rewards and recognition, career development, and a focus on well-being.

While we do support Hybrid and Flexible working where possible, there will be a requirement to travel to client-sites as well as to be in our Paris Studio to collaborate with the team on a regular basis.

The statements in this job description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the person(s) assigned to this job. This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.

We encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply, and we are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities, allowing them to perform essential job functions as determined on a case-by-case basis.

Inclusion and Diversity Commitment:

At Unispace, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We proudly embrace equal opportunity hiring and will evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, marital status, medical condition (as defined by state law), physical or mental disability, military service, veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

We are proud that our leadership reflects this commitment, with persons of color, women, neurodiverse and LGBTQ+ individuals playing pivotal roles in shaping the future of our organization. Their unique perspectives and experiences drive innovation and help us create a truly inclusive culture. We are dedicated to ensuring that every voice is heard and that our workplace is a space where diversity is not only celebrated but is integral to our success.