Job Description

Commercial Proposal Specialist

Thordon Bearings Inc. - Why work with us?





Privately owned since its inception in 1911 and headquartered in Burlington, Ontario, Canada - Thordon is a global leader in the design, manufacture, supply and installation of pollution-free, non-metallic bearing and seal systems. Our 4th generation family-owned business is committed to environmental stewardship as our products eliminate oil and grease in marine, clean power, pump and industrial applications all around the world.






The Commercial Proposal Manager (CPM) of Thordon Bearings will lead the RFP/RFQ process, from opportunity identification, to proposal submission, providing all project information to the Operations team for successful completion and profitability of project orders. This includes ensuring the timely submission of high-quality proposals that meet client requirements, managing the budget and resources effectively and establishing compliance with all RPF requirements and guidelines. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in creating compelling, client-focused proposals, an understanding of pricing strategies, and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.



Duties and Responsibilities


• Review of all RFP/RFQs' (project bid package including Terms and Conditions) for request for and support the implementation of tools to identify, prioritize and measure the status and department workload of quotations through the workflow process.
• Ensure proposals align with the company's strategic goals, capabilities, and pricing structure.
• Tailor proposals to meet client-specific needs, ensuring a high-quality standard and compliance with client requirements.
• Working with the PMO to develop and manage the proposal timeline, ensuring that all stakeholders are on track to meet deadlines.
• Obtain any missing or incomplete data by working with Customers, Distributors and Thordon Commercial team.
• Determine the best solution for the customer based on a review with Thordon Business Development Managers, Regional Managers and Distributors along with input from operations and engineering/Quality team.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, acting as the main point of contact for all proposal-related queries.
• Provide project quotations promptly. While preparing a coordinated quotation package, consider all commercial, design, Quality Control, purchasing and manufacturing requirements to meet the customer's delivery expectations.
• Proposals are for Thordon's industry-leading ship propeller shaft bearing systems, hydro-turbine guide bearing systems, and other unique applications
• Identify and manage risks within the proposal process, including legal, financial, and operational considerations. Work with the Finance Director to ensure that risks are addressed before contract execution.
• Coordinating with various teams, including sales, technical, legal and finance to ensure all aspects of a bid are addressed.
• Manage direct accounts through buyer procurement databases including invoicing, prepayments and required documentation.
• Prepare custom quotations as required following the Company margin guidelines.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement in the proposal management lifecycle to increase efficiency and win rates.
• Establish and design standard matrices based on past best practices and experience to facilitate and reduce quotation time.
• Where required, update Project Status and all communication in CRM System in a timely manner, to assist in forecasting project sales for both internal and external usage;
• Use CRM system to track and advise the status of projects to support weekly activity reports, quarterly open project status reports, analysis of completed projects, etc.
• Prepare Project Hand-Off packages for the operations team as required.
• Provide support services to Customer Service Representatives, Commercial team and Global Service & Support, as needed.


Minimum Qualifications


• Minimum 7 years' experience working with complex, large projects and assemblies in sales, technical writing, engineering or as a proposals manager
• Proven track record of successful proposal submissions and winning contracts.
• Experience in the marine or clean power industry would be a major asset
• University or College degree in a technical field
• Formal education, certification or experience in Project Management Domain would be an asset



Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required


• Exceptional organizational and time management skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and persuasively.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines and manage multiple bids simultaneously.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Software skills- Salesforce, Microsoft Excel (Expert), Word, PowerPoint, Maximizer CRM, SharePoint and other Database applications.
• Must be able to read technical drawings. Working knowledge of AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and drawings for quoting purposes
• Ability to work under pressure
• Ability to work independently




•We thank all applicants for their interest however only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Thordon Bearings Inc. will provide accommodations to job applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you require accommodation, please notify us and we will work with you to meet your needs•