Effective oversight is critical to the job of a proposal manager.
Typically, a Proposal Manager will be responsible for managing all of an organization’s proposals. This involves coordinating the proposal process, preparing actual proposals, and sending proposals to potential clients. The Proposal Manager will spend a considerable amount of time reviewing Requests for Proposals (RFPs), confirming requirements with potential clients, and then starting the proposal process. Typically, when working with a deadline, he or she will be responsible for delegating all the tasks necessary to complete a proposal, while also overseeing the writing, editing, illustration, and all other production efforts associated with the proposal. In addition, she will develop a proposal schedule, identify the most urgent tasks, and prioritize proposals according to internally developed procedures.
Once the Proposal Manager receives an RFP, they will read the entire document, focusing on understanding the client’s specifications and expectations, as well as relevant timelines and budgets. During the review process, the proposal manager will often take notes and jot down questions that she will clarify with the client before beginning. From there, he will develop a proposal plan, outline each stage of the proposal as well as its requirements, and set a timeline until the proposal deadline. Delegating tasks is part of the planning process in which the manager will recruit organizational and subcontracting resources as well as expertise to contribute to the proposal.
Effective oversight is critical to a proposal manager’s job once a proposal is underway. Leading all members of the proposal team, you will disseminate necessary information and oversee the production of all pages of the proposal, including aesthetics and written content. By conducting regular progress reviews, he or she will ensure that the proposal meets the client’s request. After the first draft is complete, the proposal manager will review the draft for accuracy and consistency, as well as to ensure that the proposal aligns with the client’s requests. He will then return the document to the proposal team for any and all revisions before forwarding it to the prospect.
Acting as the organization’s representative for the bids, the bid manager will also make regular visits to the site to interact with clients, as well as to attend bidders’ conferences. After a client has approved a submitted proposal, he or she will also be involved in finalizing and implementing the contract. This will often include negotiating final agreements, as well as informing your organization early on of the proposed work. Holding team meetings in case a proposal fails is also critical to the job.