Proposals Manager

Our client, a long-established global manufacturing company serving the aerospace, defense, and industrial markets, is seeking a Proposals Manager to lead the development and submission of complex proposals supporting government and commercial opportunities.

This role will oversee the proposal process from RFQ receipt through final submission while providing guidance on bid strategy, pricing, risk, and resource requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation, coordination, review, and submission of complex proposals and quotations.
• Analyze RFQs and develop recommendations regarding bid strategy, pricing, risk, and competitive positioning.
• Coordinate cost, technical, and management proposal inputs from cross-functional teams.
• Review and integrate labor, material, and non-recurring engineering estimates, rates, budgets, and supporting documentation.
• Lead final proposal reviews to ensure accuracy, completeness, competitiveness, and alignment with customer requirements.
• Communicate with customers and internal stakeholders throughout the proposal process and following contract award.
• Develop labor and material budgets following award and support transition from proposal to execution.
• Manage, mentor, and provide direction to estimating and proposal personnel.
• Identify and resolve issues affecting proposal schedules, pricing, resources, and deliverables.
• Ensure proposals are completed accurately, on time, and in accordance with internal processes and customer requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Accounting, Industrial Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Minimum 5 years of estimating, proposals, pricing, or related experience.
• 3+ years of supervisory or leadership experience preferred.
• Demonstrated project management experience, including planning, budgeting, resource allocation, and competing priorities.
• Strong analytical, negotiation, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to manage multiple complex projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience mentoring employees and resolving issues effectively.
• Advanced proficiency with ERP systems and Microsoft Office, including Excel and Word; intermediate PowerPoint skills.
• Experience in electrical/electronic manufacturing, aerospace, defense, or other complex manufacturing environments is preferred but not required.