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

As a Preconstruction Manager, you will manage commercial Interior fit‑out projects from initial client meeting through the pre‑contract stage. This will include working with design development, estimating, technical evaluation, assembling documentation for tenders, contract agreement up to the point of hand over to the Delivery team who will undertake the build process thereafter.

Responsibilities include but not limited to

• Lead and coordinate the estimating proposal from scope identification to final costing, and submittal of proposal
• Thoroughly review plans, drawings and specifications and develop deep understanding of all materials, labor and time required to complete the project.
• Collaborate with Delivery team in planning phases prior to project initiation
• Review drawings and provide comments to highlight potential constructability issues; value engineering opportunities; and accurate scope of work. Spearhead any corrections / changes needed.
• Effective cash flow management, and communication potential profit opportunities to the Project team.
• Conduct comprehensive subcontractor bid process to ensure all GCs are bidding on the same scope of work, project details, logistics, time schedules, etc.
• Ensure project schedules are robust enough for estimating and purchasing to occur
• Produce complete and progressive project budgets throughout the client acquisition process and as projects are initiated, and presenting these to clients based on their needs.
• Ensure project profitability, client satisfaction and quality subcontractors on each project.
• Build and nurture subcontractor relationships which put our client first

About you

We expect you to have a fantastic understanding of the Preconstruction process from Client Acquisition through to the point where work on site begins. You'll need to have worked in a Commercial Interiors, or Corporate Fit‑out Business, or have highly relevant experience from another industry. As a Senior in the team you'll also be expected to mentor more junior team members and provide assistance to them as needed, but also potentially manage them on larger projects where you require support. This is a hybrid role based in Christchurch, and you'll need to be based in the nearby area to be considered for this role.

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.

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