At First Bus, we’re proud to be at the heart of communities across the UK, delivering vital transport services that connect people to what matters. We’re growing our Contract Services team and looking for a Proposals Manager to lead the creation of winning, high-quality submissions that help us secure high-profile, high-impact contracts across the public and commercial sectors.
The Opportunity
As Proposals Manager, you’ll play a critical role in developing compelling, customer-focused responses to formal tender processes. You’ll take ownership of proposal documents, such as PQQs, RFIs, ITNs, and presentations, that reflect a deep understanding of client requirements and showcase First Bus as the delivery partner of choice.
Working cross-functionally, you’ll shape proposal strategies, create stand-out content, and support the entire process from planning to post-bid review. Your work will help First Bus win more business and deliver even greater value to passengers, partners, and communities.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the creation of persuasive, client-focused proposal submissions that score highly for quality
- Analyse tender documents to understand client expectations and tailor responses accordingly
- Collaborate with the Sales Director and internal stakeholders to define win themes and proposal strategies
- Develop and manage proposal development plans from initial storyboard to final sign-off
- Work with SMEs and Solutions Leads to extract key insights and evidence
- Structure proposals for clarity, impact, and visual appeal, ensuring consistency in tone and message
- Manage content development using the bid library while tailoring each submission to individual opportunities
- Oversee internal or external proposal writing resources where required for complex submissions
- Support presentation stages with compelling, visually engaging materials
- Lead post-submission reviews to identify improvements and evolve proposal best practice
What We're Looking For
You’re a skilled and experienced Proposals Manager with a proven track record of creating high-quality submissions for public sector and B2B opportunities. You know how to translate complex information into persuasive, client-ready content, and you bring strong organisation, relationship-building, and communication skills to every project.
Skills & Experience
- Strong background in proposals, bid writing or bid management (ideally in transport, outsourcing, or contract services)
- A track record of success in public sector tender submissions
- Excellent planning, writing, and content management skills
- Strong stakeholder engagement and team collaboration experience
- Attention to detail, creative thinking, and a proactive, can-do attitude
- Ability to manage competing priorities and meet tight deadlines
- Comfortable leading internal contributors and external writers where needed
- Strong Microsoft Office skills, especially Word and PowerPoint
Why Join First Bus?
At First Bus, we're more than just buses. We care deeply about our people, our customers and the communities we serve. We're shaping the future of transport and we want you to be part of it.
You'll be joining a company that lives by Our Way values:
- Always Care: For our customers, our communities, and each other
- Do What's Right: We act with integrity and honesty
- Succeed Together: We support and learn from each other
- Shape the Future: We're always striving to improve and innovate
What Success Looks Like
- High-quality bid submissions with winning scores
- Positive feedback from clients and stakeholders
- A respected, trusted voice within the business and the wider industry
Rewards & Benefits
- Your health is important to us which is why we offer Simply Health & Smart Health for you and your dependents at no cost to you! This offering includes cash back benefits across optical & dental as well as virtual GP appointments, mental health support and nutrition and fitness advise. Our EAP provision offers 24hr, 365 days a year mental health support
- We are also committed to your financial wellbeing, and we offer a platform with many discounts on high street brands and supermarkets etc
- Working at First you also receive discounted train travel for you and your family after 6 months service as well as a free bus pass
- Cycle to work scheme
- 25 days' holiday + bank holidays
- Pension scheme and chance to buy discounted First Group shares
- Flexible working
We put a big focus on physical and mental wellbeing at First Bus. We recognise that anyone can be affected by the stresses and strain of work, or life outside it. You'll find a range of health-promotion initiatives, and you will have 24/7 access to our confidential Employee Assistance Programme.
Please apply now. We look forward to receiving your application.
Public transport serves everyone, whatever their differences. At First Bus, we want to be an employer open to you, no matter what your differences are. We aspire to be an inclusive organisation because diverse backgrounds, thinking and experiences bring so many benefits to our customers, communities and people. We welcome applications from all.
Applicants are advised that background checks will be conducted as a standard part of our recruitment process.