Pre-Construction Director – Portugal

Lisbon, Portugal

Role Overview

The Pre-Construction Director will take full responsibility for leading the preconstruction phase of assigned projects, from initial tender through to contract award and handover to the delivery team. This role is central to shaping project strategy, coordinating internal and external resources, and driving high-quality, competitive proposals that reflect our clients construction approach and technical capability.

You will act as the primary point of accountability for preconstruction outcomes in Portugal, working cross-functionally with estimating, design, planning, procurement, and operations.
Role will be based between Lisbon and Sines to start with frequent travel across Portugal. 

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the full preconstruction lifecycle on assigned projects.

• Develop project-specific execution strategies and bid plans.

• Manage and coordinate internal resources including estimators, planners, and technical staff.

• Oversee the preparation of comprehensive tender submissions, ensuring accuracy and alignment with business objectives.

• Review all tender documentation, identify gaps, and drive clarifications or improvements as needed.

• Coordinate with the design team on preliminary design solutions and value engineering opportunities.

• Collaborate with the delivery teams to align on methodology, programme, and resource planning.

• Develop site logistics strategies and early-stage construction sequencing plans.

• Engage and assess supply chain partners and subcontractors for input on technical and commercial proposals.

• Lead internal project reviews and ensure stakeholder buy-in prior to bid submission.

• Prepare and present submission content to internal leadership.

• Identify project-specific risks and mitigation strategies throughout the preconstruction process.

• Ensure a seamless handover to the operational team post-award, with clear documentation and transition support.

• Contribute to continuous improvement of preconstruction tools, systems, and delivery standards.

Requirements

• 10+ years of construction industry experience, with a strong foundation in estimating for similar organisations. 

• At least 5 years’ experience in a preconstruction or bid leadership role on large-scale projects.

• Strong commercial awareness with the ability to interpret technical information and apply it within a strategic framework.

• Third-level degree in Quantity Surveying, Engineering, Construction Management or a related discipline.

• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and manage multiple stakeholder inputs.

• Confident communicator, capable of presenting to senior internal stakeholders.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and common construction planning or estimating tools.

• Fluent English essential; Portuguese is an advantage.