Senior Preconstruction Manager

At Unispace, we are committed to transforming workplaces to meet the diverse needs of today’s dynamic global brands. Our agile, end-to-end approach is delivered seamlessly across borders, fueled by strong client partnerships and supported by insightful workplace intelligence and innovative technology.

We believe that everyone deserves to work in an environment that inspires productivity, fosters peak performance, and promotes overall well-being. Across our 48 global studios, we recognize that positive work environments cultivate open, collaborative, and supportive cultures, enriched by the contributions of independent and motivated individuals from all backgrounds.

While our core business revolves around strategizing, designing, and building workplaces for some of the world's leading brands, we understand that our people are our greatest asset. We prioritize their growth and well-being through a comprehensive Employee Value Proposition program that includes rewards and recognition, career development opportunities, and a strong focus on mental and physical well-being.

To further support our team, we embrace flexible working arrangements, including hybrid working options that empower our employees to balance in-office collaboration with remote work flexibility. This approach not only enhances work-life balance but also allows us to harness the full potential of our diverse and talented workforce.

Role Profile:

We’re seeking a seasoned Senior Preconstruction Manager to lead commercial interior projects from early client engagement through to contract award. You’ll shape project scope, guide design development, prepare detailed cost plans, lead tendering, and ensure a seamless handover into delivery. This is a high-impact role suited to someone who enjoys autonomy, client interaction, and steering projects from the ground up.

Responsibilities include but not limited to:

Your primary responsibilities will involve leading projects from their inception, managing multi-disciplinary teams and agreeing contracts. The key elements of the role involve the following:

• Own the full estimating and pre-construction process, from defining scope to delivering final proposals.
• Analyse drawings and specifications to determine accurate materials, labour, and timelines.
• Collaborate with project leaders to align schedules, resources, and milestones during early planning.
• Identify constructability considerations and value-engineering opportunities.
• Protect commercial targets by managing budgets, cash flow, profit expectations, and risk.
• Run competitive subcontractor bid processes with clear scope alignment.
• Maintain progressive cost plans and keep stakeholders fully informed.
• Present proposals and budgets to clients clearly and confidently.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers.
• Share lessons learned and support continuous improvement across the team.

Key Measures:

• Accurate, timely cost plans and risk assessments.
• Strong negotiation outcomes with contractors and suppliers.
• Smooth, well-communicated project handovers.
• Effective management of multiple projects and deadlines.

About you:

• Degree or equivalent experience in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Engineering, or similar.
• Significant experience in commercial construction estimating, ideally interiors.
• Strong trade knowledge, market awareness, and ability to coordinate multiple subcontractor packages.
• Understanding of pre-construction workflows, methodology, and delivery principles.
• Proficiency with project management tools and scheduling software.
• Strong commercial acumen, communication, and technical insight.
• Knowledge of building regulations, compliance, and health & safety standards.

What We Offer

In return, you will receive a competitive salary and a generous benefits package, including a pension, paid holiday leave, and travel opportunities across our global offices. Unispace values its employees and offers extensive rewards and recognition, career development, and a focus on well-being.

Join Us

If you are passionate about joining Unispace and contributing to some of the world’s most recognisable commercial design projects, then please apply through our careers page.

The statements in this job description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the person(s) assigned to this job. This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required.

We encourage applicants of all backgrounds to apply, and we are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities, allowing them to perform essential job functions as determined on a case-by-case basis.

Inclusion and Diversity Commitment:

At Unispace, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We proudly embrace equal opportunity hiring and will evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, marital status, medical condition (as defined by state law), physical or mental disability, military service, veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

We are proud that our leadership reflects this commitment, with persons of color, women, neurodiverse and LGBTQ individuals playing pivotal roles in shaping the future of our organization. Their unique perspectives and experiences drive innovation and help us create a truly inclusive culture. We are dedicated to ensuring that every voice is heard and that our workplace is a space where diversity is not only celebrated but is integral to our success.