Job Role: Pre-Construction Manager – Queenstown
Job Type: Permanent / Full Time
Location: Otago
Category: Building & Construction
Sub-Category: Project Management
Description:
Description
About the Company:
An established and fast-growing national commercial construction business is seeking an experienced Pre-Construction Manager to join their Southern Lakes team based in Queenstown.
This is a pivotal leadership role sitting at the front end of major commercial projects, where smart planning, strong methodology, and strategic thinking directly influence project success, profitability, and client relationships.
If you thrive on winning work, solving complex buildability challenges, and shaping projects before they hit the site, this is your lane.
The Role:
Lead strategy. Shape projects. Win work the right way.
As Pre-Construction Manager, you’ll be a key member of the national pre-construction and bid team, responsible for leading the planning and methodology that underpins successful tenders and project delivery.
You’ll work closely with estimators, quantity surveyors, bid managers, and senior leadership — playing a hands-on role in developing programmes, construction methodologies, and winning strategies for significant commercial builds.
This is a role for someone who understands construction inside and out and can translate that knowledge into compelling, practical, and commercially smart tender submissions.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead development of tender and construction programmes
- Write clear, detailed, and practical construction methodologies
- Provide expert input into buildability reviews and risk mitigation
- Contribute to tender win strategies and post-tender client presentations
- Support pricing strategies to ensure value for both client and contractor
- Engage early with suppliers and subcontractors during tender phases
- Maintain and grow strong industry relationships to support business growth
- Support development of commercial policies and compliance strategies
- Ensure all planning supports safe, efficient, high-quality project delivery
What We’re Looking For:
We’re after someone who has progressed through the industry and truly understands how projects are built — not just how they look on paper.
You Will Bring:
- 6+ years’ experience in commercial construction in roles such as Project Manager, Site Manager, Quantity Surveyor, or Commercial Manager
- Proven experience contributing to tenders, ECI, or Design & Build projects
- Strong ability to develop construction programmes and methodologies
- Excellent technical writing skills — you can clearly explain how a project will be delivered
- Strong commercial awareness and understanding of construction risk
- Confidence presenting to clients during post-tender interviews
- Established industry networks and relationship-building ability
- Excellent Microsoft skills, particularly Microsoft Project and Word
- Working knowledge of NZ construction contracts, Building Act, NZ Standards, and H&S legislation
Experience with CostX, CmBuilder, or Procore is advantageous but not essential.
Why This Role Stands Out:
- Be part of a high-performing national construction business with a strong pipeline of commercial work
- Play a key role in shaping how major projects are won and delivered
- Work in a collaborative environment that values innovation, quality, and smart thinking
- Queenstown-based role with involvement in significant South Island projects
- Long-term career progression within a growing business
Who This Role Suits:
This role suits someone who,
- Has run jobs and now enjoys the strategy and planning side of construction
- Understands site realities and can turn them into strong tender methodology
- Is commercially sharp and knows what makes a bid stand out
- Communicates confidently with clients, consultants, and internal teams
- Takes ownership and thrives in a results-driven environment
How to Apply:
If you’re ready to step into a role where your experience directly influences which projects get won and how they’re delivered, we want to hear from you.
Apply online with your up-to-date CV.
Applicants must:
- Be currently based in New Zealand
- Hold full working rights
- Be able to pass pre-employment drug and criminal checks
Steve Deans
VIPeople Senior Recruiter | Building, Civil & Trades Sectors
