Estimator

About Lanes Group

Lanes Group plc stands as a prominent nationwide utility services provider, employing around 5000 dedicated professionals. Our broad range of subsidiaries contribute significantly to an impressive turnover exceeding £650 million. We emphasize excellence and innovation, ensuring top-tier services for our clients and stakeholders. Join us to become part of a vibrant team that supports diversity and professional advancement.

Department Overview

Sapphire Utility Solutions, a subsidiary of Lanes Group, operates across various divisions. The Commercial team coordinates closely with operational, delivery, and support units, overseeing commercial management, contract administration, financial oversight, and strategic guidance. Their mission is to guarantee efficient, profitable project execution aligned with contractual commitments.

Role Purpose

The Estimator role supports business expansion by crafting accurate and competitive tenders and quotations within Capital, Rehabilitation, and Repair & Maintenance solutions, particularly in utilities and infrastructure sectors. Collaborating with operational, commercial, and Bid teams, this role involves reviewing project information, determining appropriate solutions, and leading enquiries from the initial contact to contract award. This fast-moving position demands keen commercial insight, meticulous attention to detail, and exemplary customer service abilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze project documents, CCTV survey results, drawings, and client data to select optimal solutions meeting client needs.
• Prepare precise and competitive quotations utilizing approved pricing schedules and CRM systems for review and buy-in.
• Solicit and assess quotes from suppliers and specialist subcontractors as needed.
• Handle routine client enquiries from first contact through contract finalization, maintaining exceptional service levels.
• Collaborate with Bid teams, either transferring prospects suitably or maintaining ownership until order receipt.
• Keep accurate and current records of opportunities, quotations, and project details within CRM and other business platforms.
• Deliver thorough project handovers to operational and service delivery units post contract award.
• Provide commercial advice and support to project teams during delivery phases when necessary.
• Contribute to tender preparation and bid activities as required.
• Develop and sustain productive relationships with clients, suppliers, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders.
• Manage multiple simultaneous enquiries and priorities efficiently under tight deadlines.
• Conduct site inspections and undertake occasional overnight travel as needed.

Candidate Requirements

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• Prior experience in Estimation, Commercial Management, or Quantity Surveying within the Utilities sector or related roles.
• Strong analytical capabilities with close attention to numerical details.
• Ability to interpret technical materials such as drawings, reports, and project documents.
• Excellent organizational skills enabling effective workload prioritization and deadline adherence.
• Well-developed communication and client service skills for engaging with diverse stakeholders.
• Familiarity with CRM platforms and cloud-based business applications.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications including Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Capability to work autonomously while collaborating within team settings.
• Possession of a valid UK driving licence and readiness to travel when required.

Desired Attributes

• Background within utilities, drainage, infrastructure, construction, or similar sectors.
• Knowledge of drainage and rehabilitation solutions or civil engineering works.
• Understanding of standard contract forms, especially NEC contracts.
• Experience in handling CCTV survey information and technical documentation.
• Previous involvement in tender submissions and bid preparation.
• Exposure to work in a rapid commercial or project delivery environment.

Company Values and Culture

We embed core values into every role to align individual contributions and development with our commitment to 'improving today for a better tomorrow'. This role exemplifies leadership by being a role model, adaptability by responding promptly to operational changes, nurturing through coaching, engaging by motivating and inspiring others, and upholding safety and compliance standards.

Your Contribution

• Maintain a positive and constructive attitude.
• Comply with all company policies.
• Candidly discuss situations to foster solution-oriented conversations.
• Communicate clearly to support colleagues.
• Follow through on commitments reliably.
• Proactively suggest ideas to improve company productivity or systems.
• Uphold company values emphasizing unity and strength through collaboration.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

Lanes Group is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where every employee feels respected and empowered. We recognize the strength that diversity brings and encourage applications from all backgrounds, including underrepresented groups, supporting equal opportunity for all.