Bid Writer at University of the West of England (Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship Available)

Location: Frenchay, South Gloucestershire, United Kingdom

Salary: Grade G – £38,249 to £45,413 per annum

Contract: Permanent, Full-time (37 hours per week)

Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship: Available

About the Role: Bid Writer (Innovation & External Funding)

Are you a skilled bid writer passionate about securing impactful funding opportunities? The University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) invites applications for a Bid Writer position based at the vibrant Frenchay campus. This role offers an exciting chance to drive innovation through securing competitive bids and funding proposals aligned with UWE Bristol’s strategic vision.

You will work within the Bidding, Income and Development (BID) team, a dynamic group dedicated to supporting the University’s growth by identifying and securing external funding, grants, and tenders. Your expertise will help shape compelling proposals in collaboration with academic staff and professional services, supporting innovation, research, and regional development initiatives.

Why Join UWE Bristol?

Leading Higher Education Provider: UWE Bristol is one of the South West’s largest universities, hosting over 38,000 students and 4,000 staff from diverse backgrounds.
Strategically Located: Situated in Bristol, a vibrant and forward-thinking UK city, offering excellent cultural and professional opportunities.
Strong Regional & Global Links: Deeply connected with local businesses and international academic partners, enhancing career and networking potential.
Inclusive & Diverse Workplace: Committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion — celebrating multiculturalism and supporting underrepresented groups.
Comprehensive Employee Benefits: Generous annual leave, pension schemes, retail discounts, onsite nursery, and ongoing training & development.

Key Responsibilities of the Bid Writer Role

Developing and Writing High-Quality Funding Proposals

Prepare detailed and persuasive bids, tenders, grants, and business cases for local, national, and international funding opportunities.
Align proposals with UWE Bristol’s strategic objectives, particularly in research, innovation, and enterprise development.
Collaborate closely with academic departments, external partners, and professional services to gather information and shape proposals that showcase the university’s strengths.

Strategic Funding Landscape Analysis

Monitor the external funding environment including Innovate UK, West of England Combined Mayoral Authority (WEMCA), government initiatives, and national/international tenders.
Identify emerging funding opportunities and advise the University on potential income streams.

Project Design and Stakeholder Engagement

Support project planning and design to ensure proposals are robust and aligned with funder requirements.
Engage with diverse stakeholders to coordinate input, ensure deadlines are met, and maintain effective communication throughout the bidding process.

Administrative and Process Improvement

Maintain accurate records of bids and proposals using dedicated CRM and project management systems.
Assist in developing templates, workflows, and tools to streamline the bidding process across the University.

Essential Qualifications and Skills

Proven Bid Writing Expertise

Demonstrable experience writing successful bids, tenders, or grant applications within higher education, public sector, or innovation environments.
Ability to interpret complex funding calls and government policies to create tailored, competitive proposals.

Exceptional Written Communication

Strong command of written English with the ability to craft clear, compelling, and concise proposals.
Skilled in editing and refining text to enhance clarity and persuasiveness.

Collaborative and Proactive Approach

Able to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Comfortable managing multiple deadlines and adapting quickly to changing priorities.

Technical Proficiency

Experience with CRM systems, bid management software, and Microsoft Office applications.
Ability to analyze data and synthesize information for evidence-based proposals.

Preferred Experience

Familiarity with funding bodies such as Innovate UK, WEMCA, Research England, and other innovation-focused agencies.
Background in innovation projects, research support, or enterprise development.
Knowledge of university processes and strategic priorities is advantageous.

Benefits and Rewards Package

At UWE Bristol, your wellbeing and professional growth are paramount. Alongside a competitive salary range (£38,249 – £45,413), you will benefit from:

Generous Annual Leave: 25 days plus bank holidays, supporting a healthy work-life balance.
Pension Scheme: Secure your future with a comprehensive career average pension plan.
Training & Development: Access to ongoing learning opportunities tailored to your career goals.
Employee Discounts: Enjoy retail savings and access to an onsite nursery for working parents.
Hybrid Working: Flexible working arrangements with at least 60% on-campus presence.
Inclusive Culture: Work within a diverse, welcoming environment committed to equality and belonging.

Who Are We Looking For?

You are a motivated and detail-focused professional with a passion for innovation and funding success. You thrive in fast-paced environments and enjoy engaging with a wide range of stakeholders to produce competitive bids that unlock new opportunities.

Your ability to write clearly and persuasively, combined with your proactive and collaborative nature, will help UWE Bristol increase its external income and enhance its reputation as a leading research and innovation university.

The University of the West of England: A Hub for Innovation and Research

UWE Bristol is at the forefront of research excellence and enterprise in the South West of England. The university’s commitment to innovation spans multiple disciplines, with strong links to industry and government initiatives. The Research and External Engagement (REE) service supports this vision by promoting collaboration, skills development, and impactful partnerships.

As a Bid Writer, you will be integral to this mission, contributing to funding proposals that support innovative research projects and skills development programs, making a tangible difference in the region and beyond.

Application Process and Important Information

Application Deadline: 5th June 2025 (Applications reviewed on a rolling basis).
Interview Dates: Scheduled for week commencing 16th June 2025.
Workplace: Primarily based on UWE’s Frenchay campus, with flexible hybrid working options.
Contract Type: Permanent, full-time (37 hours per week).
Job Share: Available for candidates seeking part-time arrangements.

Apply Here

Skilled Worker Visa Sponsorship

UWE Bristol is a licensed sponsor under the UK Home Office Skilled Worker visa route. Eligible international candidates can apply, and sponsorship may be provided subject to visa requirements.

Note: The university does not cover visa or health surcharge costs.

Right to Work and Equality Commitment

All applicants must provide proof of their right to work in the UK. UWE Bristol is an Equal Opportunities employer, committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce.

The university welcomes applications from candidates regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, or background.

Tips for a Successful Application

Tailor your application to demonstrate how your skills and experience meet the essential and desirable criteria outlined in the job description.
Provide clear, specific examples of successful bids or proposals you have written.
Highlight your ability to manage complex projects and collaborate across teams.
Emphasize your understanding of funding landscapes relevant to higher education and innovation.

Contact and Further Information

If you have questions about this role or the application process, please contact:
Kate Trigg — kate.trigg@uwe.ac.uk

Apply Now: Join UWE Bristol’s Growing Team of Innovators and Bid Experts

Take the next step in your career with a university that values your talent and ambition. Be part of an inspiring team that drives innovation and research excellence while contributing to the regional and global impact of higher education.

Apply online today for the Bid Writer (Innovation) position at the University of the West of England.