Proposal Manager

Nikkiso Clean Energy & Industrial Gases is a leading provider of cryogenic pumps, heat exchangers, process systems, services, and solutions for the LNG and industrial gases industry.  We are a subsidiary of Nikkiso Company Ltd, a leading industrial manufacturer headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, with over $1.5B in annual revenue, 8000 + employees worldwide, and publicly traded on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

Nikkiso Cryogenic Services (NCS) is an industry leader in the provision of services to the industrial gas and air separation industries, enhanced oil recovery operations, marine, clean energy, and alternative fuels markets. Boasting a vast portfolio of innovative solutions, cutting-edge technology, and expert services, the company stands tall as a go-to service provider for a wide range of clients. The company has carved a niche for itself in the market with its consistent delivery of top-tier services that are tailored to meet the specific needs of each industry. Our products have been instrumental in enabling     customers to realize safer, greener, and more sustainable operations. From liquefied natural gas (LNG) systems to industrial gas equipment, every product is designed and manufactured with the utmost consideration for safety and environmental sustainability.

Nikkiso Cryogenic Services is not just a leading service provider to a range of industries, but also a champion of safer, greener operations. Its products and services are designed to meet the dual objectives of operational efficiency and sustainability, helping clients achieve their goals while minimizing environmental impact.

We are seeking a dynamic and results-oriented Proposal Manager, responsible for leading and coordinating the development of winning sales proposals and presentations to support business opportunities. This individual will work closely with the sales team to understand client needs, develop compelling value propositions, and create customized proposals that showcase the company's products and services in a clear and persuasive manner. The successful candidate will also manage the proposal process from start to finish, ensuring that all deadlines are met, quality standards are maintained, and that proposals are tailored to meet the specific requirements of each client. Additionally, the Proposal Manager will play a key role in identifying areas for process improvement and implementing best practices to streamline the proposal development process and enhance overall sales effectiveness.

Essential Functions/Responsibilities

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Develop and manage the overall sales proposal process, ensuring timely and accurate completion of proposals to meet client deadlines.
• Collaborate with sales, marketing, and product teams to gather necessary information and content for proposals.
• Create compelling and customized proposals that effectively communicate the value proposition and competitive advantage of the company's products or services.
• Work closely with the commercial product managers to ensure competitive pricing strategies while continuously improving profit margin.
• Review and analyze RFPs (Request for Proposals) and other bid documents to determine requirements and scope of work.
• Coordinate with subject matter experts to incorporate technical details and specifications into proposals.
• Edit and proofread proposal content to ensure clarity, consistency, and alignment with branding guidelines.
• Maintain a repository of proposal templates, case studies, and other relevant materials to streamline the proposal development process.
• Track and report on proposal metrics, such as win rates, proposal response times, and feedback from clients.
• Stay updated on industry trends, best practices, and competitor activities to continuously improve proposal quality and effectiveness.
• Provide training and guidance to sales team members on proposal writing techniques and strategies.
• Foster a positive and results-oriented work culture that encourages teamwork, engagement, and achievement of goals, along with establishing an environment where delivering world class customer service is understood to be a core value.
• Other duties as assigned.

Competencies (Skills, Abilities, and Knowledge)

Core Competencies

• Proposal Management Expertise: Ability to manage multiple complex proposals simultaneously while maintaining quality and meeting deadlines.
• Strategic Thinking: Strong ability to understand customer requirements, market conditions, competitive positioning, and business objectives.
• Commercial Acumen: Understanding of pricing strategies, contract terms, profitability considerations, and sales processes.
• Project Management Skills: Strong organizational skills with the ability to coordinate cross-functional teams and manage competing priorities.
• Technical Aptitude: Ability to understand technical products, engineered systems, aftermarket services, and cryogenic applications.
• Communication Skills: Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation skills with the ability to communicate effectively across all organizational levels.
• Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy in reviewing technical and commercial proposal content.
• Collaboration & Relationship Building: Ability to establish strong working relationships with internal stakeholders, customers, and leadership teams.
• Problem Solving: Ability to identify challenges, assess risks, and develop practical solutions in fast-paced environments.
• Customer Focus: Strong commitment to delivering high-quality, customer-centered solutions and service.
• Time Management: Ability to manage deadlines effectively while balancing multiple priorities and projects.
• Continuous Improvement Mindset: Ability to identify opportunities to improve proposal processes, tools, and efficiencies.

The successful candidate will possess a unique blend of educational qualifications, sales skills, leadership experience, and personal attributes that ensure the individual is well-equipped to understand the complexities of business development across different cultures and regions.

• Strong Communication Skills: Ability to effectively communicate ideas, proposals, and solutions both verbally and in writing to clients and internal stakeholders.
• Strategic Thinking: Capable of understanding client needs, market trends, and competitive landscape to create compelling sales proposals that address specific customer requirements.
• Project Management: Ability to effectively manage the entire proposal process from initiation to delivery, ensuring deadlines are met and quality standards are maintained.
• Technical Proficiency: Knowledge of sales tools, CRM systems, and other software applications to create, track, and analyze proposals efficiently.
• Problem-Solving Abilities: Skilled in identifying and addressing potential challenges or objections in the sales proposal process to improve the likelihood of success.
• Attention to Detail: Ability to meticulously review and edit proposals to ensure accuracy, consistency, and professionalism in all written materials.
• Relationship Building: Capable of fostering strong relationships with clients, internal teams, and other stakeholders to collaborate effectively on proposals and drive business growth.
• Market Research Skills: Proficiency in conducting market research and competitive analysis to tailor proposals that align with client needs and market demands.
• Results-Driven: Demonstrated track record of achieving sales targets, winning new business, and driving revenue through successful proposal management.
• Customer Focus: A strong commitment to understanding customer needs, providing excellent service, and building long-term customer relationships. Ability to anticipate customer requirements and ensure customer satisfaction.
• Time Management: Excellent organizational skills and ability to prioritize tasks effectively. Capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously and meeting deadlines.

Education Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Marketing, Communications, or related field
• PMP certification or proposal management certifications are a plus.

Experience

• 10+ years of experience in sales, marketing, or business development
• Proven track record of successfully managing and winning sales proposals
• Strong understanding of sales processes and strategies
• Experience in developing and implementing sales proposal templates
• Excellent writing and communication skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Experience with CRM software and other sales tools
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams

Physical Demands

• To perform the duties of this job, the employee may be required to stand, walk, sit, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, stoop or kneel, talk, and hear, and use fingers and hands to type and write, and feel objects, tools, or controls; lift files and open desk drawers and filing cabinets.
• Overtime may be necessary as the workload dictates. This could include weekdays, weekends, nights and/or holidays.
• Ability to lift to 42 lbs. may be required.

• Use standard office equipment such as computers, smart phones, printers, photocopiers, etc.

Work Environment

• Job will generally be performed in an office environment but may require travel to a client's office, production facility, or industrial/construction job site.

• Conditions will vary at each location, but the conditions listed above will generally apply.

Safety

• Complete safety training requirements.
• Participate in other training as directed by the company or manager.
• Wear Nikkiso approved PPE as needed and direct team and others to do the same as appropriate.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.