Bid Manager
Name: Natalie Mann
Career stage: Mid-level - 5-10 years' experience
Working: Office, Remote working
High School Subjects: English, Maths, Legal Studies, Drama, Japanese
Favourite: Drama. I love to perform and express myself.
Further study: University
where and what: QUT Bachelor of Arts & Education (Drama and English)
"Don't be tethered by the expectations of your family and what your parents may have done when they were your age. You're a part of a whole new generation and your possibilities are endless."
THE INSIDE SCOOP…
What does a Bid Manager actually do? I work in the new business team targeting new projects and opportunities in various sectors in construction. I contribute to the growth of the company by strategising and preparing written and visual responses to requests for tenders and expressions of interests working with estimators, planners, head office managers, construction managers and company directors to maintain the company's story and sing a song of value in compelling responses to prospective clients. I also contribute online and ad hoc content and written award submissions on behalf of the company.
What does a day in your life at work look like? Working to deadlines to write and collate content for bid responses. Checking in with my team and subject matter experts as required to confirm strategy and content. Maintaining an accurate filing system of relevant content. And having fun catching up with my colleagues and tracking project progress and milestones.
What's the best part of your job? Winning a project and witnessing the progression from planning to a completed building standing in the sky knowing "I was a part of that!"
What made you realise construction could be for you? I kind of fell into it. I had a varied background but always involved in communications of some sort. I loved to write and joined a company of strategic storytellers who approached a large Tier 1 construction company to provide bid writing services. I went along for the ride and was soon seconded to said company and quickly learnt about and loved writing about building amazing buildings.
What would you tell your high school self about working in construction? That's it's not just for men with tools. There are a whole range of options in the industry for people of all sexes and backgrounds.
Do you have any advice for young women picking a career? Don't be tethered by the expectations of your family and what your parents may have done when they were your age. You're a part of a whole new generation and your possibilities are endless.
Tell us about a favourite project you're working on. I wrote a successful bid for a huge redevelopment of a commercial and residential site with cultural and heritage significance. It will be a new landmark and vibrant gathering place for residents and visitors to Melbourne. Watch this space......
Natalie is open to engaging further via: nan
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