Kainos
Principal Bid Owner

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Join Kainos and Shape the Future
At Kainos, we’re problem solvers, innovators, and collaborators - driven by a shared mission to create real impact. Whether we’re transforming digital services for millions, delivering cutting-edge Workday solutions, or pushing the boundaries of technology, we do it together.
We believe in a people-first culture, where your ideas are valued, your growth is supported, and your contributions truly make a difference. Here, you’ll be part of a diverse, ambitious team that celebrates creativity and collaboration.
Ready to make your mark? Join us and be part of something bigger.
Principal Bid Owner (Public Sector)
About the Role
As a Principal Bid Owner, you will lead strategic, high-value public sector pursuits, shaping winning propositions and bid responses that help Kainos secure major digital transformation programmes. This is a leadership role focused on pursuit strategy, solution positioning, and bid quality, rather than solely bid writing.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop compelling value propositions, win themes, and key messaging.
- Own the overall bid narrative to articulate a winning bid solution, integrating technical, commercial, and delivery content.
- Lead storyboarding and response development, engaging subject matter experts effectively to secure required insight and evidence while using specialist time efficiently.
- Shape and challenge solutions to ensure they are credible, competitive, and client-focused.
- Collaborate with sales, delivery, technical, and commercial stakeholders to drive successful outcomes.
- Ensure submissions are high-quality, compliant, and aligned to customer evaluation criteria.
- Coach colleagues and contribute to bid best practice and continuous improvement.
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I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
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Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
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Only hits
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What We're Looking For
- Proven success in senior pursuit, pre-sales, or bid leadership roles.
- Strong proposal writing, editing, and storytelling skills, with experience of holding the pen on complex bid responses.
- Ability to influence senior stakeholders and drive decisions in complex environments.
- Understanding of digital transformation, technology delivery, and commercial considerations.
- Knowledge of UK Public Sector procurement and bidding processes.
- Excellent communication, facilitation, and stakeholder management skills.
- Ideal backgrounds: Bid Director, Capture Manager, Senior Bid Manager, Pursuit Lead, Pre-Sales Lead, or Solution Lead with significant bid ownership experience.
Why Join Kainos?
We are building a world-class Business Development capability to support Kainos’ continued growth. You'll have the opportunity to shape some of the UK's most important public sector digital transformation programmes, working with clients including the Home Office, Defra, HMCTS, Department for Transport, and FCDO. You'll join a collaborative, high-performing team where your expertise will directly influence Kainos' continued success and growth.


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Embracing our differences
At Kainos, we believe in the power of diversity, equity, and inclusion. We are committed to building a team that is as diverse as the world we live in, where everyone is valued, respected, and given an equal chance to thrive. We actively seek out talented people from all backgrounds, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or any other characteristic that makes them who they are. We also believe every candidate deserves a level playing field.
Our friendly talent acquisition team is here to support you every step of the way, so if you require any accommodations or adjustments, we encourage you to reach out. We understand that everyone's journey is different, and by having a private conversation, we can ensure that our recruitment process is tailored to your needs.
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