Job Description

Thornton & Lowe are recruiting on behalf of a leading national training provider specialising in logistics, apprenticeships and Skills Bootcamps. Renowned for delivering high‑quality funded and commercial training, they support employers across the UK with expert workforce
development solutions.

About the Role

Our Client is looking for an experienced Bid Writer with proven expertise in the Further Education (FE) sector to help us secure high‑value opportunities across apprenticeships, Skills Bootcamps, AEB, and employer‑funded training. If you know the FE landscape inside out — funding rules, compliance requirements, tender portals, and what commissioners look for - this role will feel like home.

You’ll lead the creation of persuasive, evidence‑driven bids while coordinating the full tender process from opportunity identification to submission and clarification. Your work will directly support our growth in logistics, construction, digital, and other priority sectors.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a skilled FE bid writer who thrives in a fast‑paced environment and wants to make a measurable impact.

Key Responsibilities

You will:

• Manage tender portals and ensure all organisational information is accurate and compliant
• Identify, assess, and summarise new FE and skills funding opportunities
• Maintain the Bid Tracker and performance data
• Produce accurate, quality-assured bid activity and performance reports
• Manage PQQs, frameworks, compliance documentation, and full bid submissions
• Control bid documentation, deadlines, and versioning
• Coordinate clarification questions and contract documentation
• Attend bid kick‑off and review meetings
• Work collaboratively with curriculum, quality, finance, operations, and employer engagement teams to shape credible delivery models
• Produce tailored bid responses, presentations, and pitch materials
• Write high‑quality, client‑aligned written bid responses
• Support business development with tender presentations
• Monitor social value delivery and ensure tender commitments are met
• Maintain tender return information as required by the commissioning authority throughout the duration of the contract

What We’re Looking For

Essential

• Minimum 3 years’ bid writing experience in the Further Education sector
• Strong understanding of FE funding, apprenticeships, Skills Bootcamps, and workforce development
• Experience managing tender portals and bid management systems
• Excellent writing, editing, and document production skills
• Confidence in managing multiple deadlines and priorities
• High attention to detail and strong self‑review capability
• Strong IT skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• Understanding of employer workforce development needs in logistics, construction, digital, or similar growth sectors
• GCSEs (A–C) or equivalent in English and Maths

Desirable

• APMP certification or equivalent

Benefits

• On‑site parking
• Work‑from‑home flexibility