Manager of Estimating

Overview:

The Manager of Estimating is responsible for leading and managing a team of Estimators creating best in class cost estimates that support winning business strategies on behalf of multiple business units, including Sign Programs, Facility Maintenance and Brand. The position is hands-on and will also require management of new business opportunities that require creative and out-of-the-box cost strategies resulting in accelerated timelines and improved win rates. The Manager of Estimating will also influence and support the re-invention of the Estimating Department, incorporating data analytics and sourcing strategy into standard estimating practices, where appropriate. Creation of estimate categorization, innovation and applicable best practices will be key to departmental success.

Our Exceptional Benefits Plan includes:

• Supportive & Friendly Culture
• Manage national accounts for Fortune 500 companies
• Medical, Dental, Vision coverage options
• Flexible Spending & Health Savings Accounts
• Company paid Life Insurance
• 401k with Employer Contribution
• Company paid Short/Long Term Disability
• Generous Paid Time Off program + Holidays
• Career Growth Opportunities and Career Mapping
• Additional perks including Pet Insurance, Employee Assistance Program, Educational Assistance Program (Non-Union employees), Identity Theft Protection, Critical Illness Plans, Commuter Benefits and various employee discount offerings from our Vendors 
• Per diems available when traveling

Stratus is one of the nation’s largest brand implementation companies. We are made up of 1,100+ employees nationwide who roll up their sleeves, dive into the details and bring our clients’ brands to life! We deliver versatile solutions for some of the nation’s largest and most recognized brands. From exterior signage & interior branding to site refresh & remodel, from energy & lighting to repair & maintenance solutions, we deliver ideal solutions to meet all our client's branding needs.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Manage a team of Estimators creating best in class cost estimates that support winning business strategies on behalf of multiple business units, including Sign Programs, Facility Maintenance and Brand.
• Evaluate and coach staff performance with an expectation of continuous improvement.
• Partner with Estimators to drive creative solutions and out-of-the-box strategies to ensure market competitive rates.
• Coach Estimators how to incorporate market-based best practices and knowledge into estimates, while still meeting customer needs and aligning with operational strategy.
• On assigned Estimate Requests, create detailed, accurate, cost estimates by evaluating artwork/drawings and data to ensure customer requirements are met and operational strategy is supported.
• Partner with SVP of Estimating and Strategic Analysts to establish key performance indicators that measure performance and efficiency on behalf of each Estimator, as well as the effectiveness of the team.
• Provide accurate reporting of team activities, including workload, measurement against KPIs, etc.
• Work with SVP of Estimating to establish standards on Estimate Request Reviews (EX: Estimate Value vs New or BAU Opportunity, etc.)
• In collaboration with the SVP of Estimating, drive collaboration and efficiencies across cross-departmental teams using clear and concise communication, covering topics such as: Operational Strategy, Cost Reviews, awarded program touch base, etc.
• Partner closely with Vendor Relations and Supply Chain to strategically drive lower costs and faster response times.
• Partner with Field Partner Management to ensure adherence to new processes and clear feedback loop, driving lower costs and faster response times.
• Attend new opportunity kick off calls, operational strategy discussions, cost reviews and other meetings as applicable.

Skills

• Familiarity with reading and analyzing technical drawings, with proven ability to perform accurate and inclusive takeoffs
• High level of organizational and analytical skills with ability to work under pressure and deadlines
• Strong written, verbal, and analytical skills
• Expert knowledge and ability to work with Microsoft Excel
• Experience working in Enterprise Resource Planning software tool
• Familiarity with analyzing requirement data, such as spreadsheets and database managers, to develop cost estimates
• Adaptability to fast-paced environment with shifting priorities based on urgency, customer expectations, and importance
• Ability to effectively influence others at various levels within the organization
• Sense of customer service for both internal and external customers
• Sense of humor, integrity, personal sense of accountability and ability to overcome objections
• Mechanical and technical aptitude with experience in sign production or manufacturer preferred 

Education, Experience, and Credentials

• Ability to build accountability and develop employees
• College degree or technical education preferred
• 4 to 5 years of experience in sign industry preferred
• Minimum of 2 years experience as an Estimator within the sign, lighting or related field

Other

• Ability to work in a deadline-driven environment
• Willingness and ability to travel nationwide on an as-needed basis
• Position may require working before or after regularly scheduled hours as business needs arise

EEO/MFDV

#LI-REMOTE