Estimation Manager

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.

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Estimation Manager to join our dynamic team in London. This critical role will be responsible for leading and managing all aspects of cost estimation, with a particular focus on the pre-construction phase. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of construction methodologies, market pricing, and value engineering, enabling them to develop accurate and competitive estimates from conceptual design through to detailed tender. This role requires strong analytical abilities, exceptional communication skills, and a proactive approach to risk identification and mitigation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Pre-Construction Estimating: Develop detailed and accurate cost estimates from conceptual design to tender stage, often with limited information, for a diverse range of commercial interior fit-out and construction projects.

• Feasibility and Budgeting: Conduct feasibility studies and develop initial project budgets, providing critical financial insights to clients and internal teams during the early project stages.

• Value Engineering: Proactively identify and propose value engineering opportunities to optimize project costs without compromising design intent or quality.

• Risk Assessment: Identify potential cost risks and opportunities during the pre-construction phase, developing strategies for mitigation and contingency planning.

• Market Intelligence: Maintain up-to-date knowledge of current market conditions, material costs, labour rates, and subcontractor pricing in the London and wider UK construction market.

• Tender Management: Oversee the tender process, including preparing tender documents, evaluating bids from subcontractors and suppliers, and negotiating optimal pricing.

• Collaboration: Work closely with design teams, project managers, clients, and subcontractors to ensure alignment on project scope, specifications, and cost objectives from project inception.

• Data Analysis & Reporting: Prepare comprehensive cost reports, analyses, and presentations for internal stakeholders and clients, clearly articulating cost drivers and assumptions.

• Process Improvement: Continuously review and improve estimation processes, tools, and databases to enhance accuracy and efficiency.

• Mentorship: Provide guidance and support to junior estimators or project team members on best practices in cost management and estimation.

Qualifications & Experience

• Essential:

  • Proven experience (minimum 7+ years) in construction estimating, with a significant portion dedicated to pre-construction (precon) estimating for commercial projects, ideally within interior fit-out or commercial building sectors.

  • Demonstrable experience in developing conceptual estimates, budget estimates, and detailed tenders from various stages of design.

  • Strong understanding of construction contracts, procurement methods, and UK building regulations.

  • Proficiency in estimation software (e.g., CostX, Bluebeam, or similar).

  • Excellent analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills.

  • Exceptional communication, negotiation, and presentation abilities.

  • Bachelor's degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field.

• Desirable:

  • Experience working within an integrated design-build or design-led construction firm.

  • Professional certification (e.g., RICS, CIOB).

  • Experience with projects in the healthcare sector.

Skills

• Advanced cost modeling and forecasting.

• Risk management and mitigation.

• Value engineering and cost optimization.

• Strong commercial acumen.

• Attention to detail and accuracy.

• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

• Collaborative and team-oriented mindset.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.

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.