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Gillian Graham
Gillian Graham has invested 17 years in Allstaff, rising to the position of Director, where she oversees the Office and Professional Services, Engineering, and Manufacturing Permanent Divisions.
Senior Estimators play a central role in the success of construction, civil engineering, and infrastructure projects. They provide the financial insight and forecasting that enables projects to be priced accurately, competitively, and sustainably. Their work underpins major decisions across the tendering, planning, and early project stages shaping profitability, risk exposure, and long-term project viability. As the construction industry in Scotland continues to evolve, from complex infrastructure upgrades to modern commercial builds, the strategic contribution of Senior Estimators has never been more important.
The core function of a Senior Estimator is to prepare accurate cost estimates for construction projects. This begins with reviewing drawings, specifications, and contract documents to understand the full scope of the work. They develop detailed cost plans, create budgets, and lead pricing strategies that position the company competitively during tender submissions. Their work informs project directors, commercial managers, and clients, helping them understand the projected financial commitment required.
A major part of the role involves managing and analysing supplier quotations, subcontractor packages, and market rates. Senior Estimators evaluate material costs, labour requirements, plant hire, and specialist works, making sure each element aligns with the client’s specification and contract conditions. Their ability to assess every aspect of the project and identify the most cost-effective approach without compromising quality directly influences the project’s commercial success.
Senior Estimators also oversee the estimation process for infrastructure and civil engineering projects, which often involve complex measurement, phasing, and technical requirements. They ensure Bills of Quantities (BOQs) are accurate, coordinate with contractors and design teams, and manage risk assessments during the estimation phase. This includes value engineering, where they explore alternative methods or materials that could reduce cost, improve efficiency, or enhance sustainability.
Team leadership is another major responsibility. Senior Estimators mentor junior estimators, support their development, and guide them through complex tender submissions. They coordinate with design teams, procurement departments, site managers, and commercial stakeholders, making sure everyone has a clear understanding of expected costs and risks. They also participate in tender adjudications and planning meetings, contributing insight that directly influences bid strategies and project planning decisions.
Technical expertise is at the heart of the Senior Estimator role. They must be highly knowledgeable about construction methods, industry standards, benchmarking techniques, and cost databases. This involves understanding material specifications, labour rates, subcontractor markets, and how various construction techniques impact overall cost. Their expertise in tender processes from identifying opportunities to completing adjudications is essential for navigating complex bids effectively.
Professional qualifications typically include a background in civil engineering, construction management, quantity surveying, or a related technical discipline. Extensive experience in cost estimation and an understanding of project delivery are vital, particularly for large-scale or infrastructure projects. Many Senior Estimators have worked across multiple sectors — commercial, residential, industrial, highways, utilities, or rail giving them broad commercial awareness and technical depth.
Soft skills are equally important. Senior Estimators must communicate complex information clearly, whether they are speaking with clients, presenting cost plans, or collaborating with the wider project team. They often work to tight deadlines and must maintain accuracy while managing significant volumes of information. Their decision-making ability, leadership qualities, and professional confidence are essential in high-stakes environments where accuracy directly affects project outcomes.
Modern cost estimation relies heavily on advanced tools and software. Senior Estimators use digital measurement systems, estimating platforms, and integrated cost databases to produce accurate, evidence-based estimates. Technology allows them to analyse subcontractor quotes more effectively, compare costs across previous projects, and ensure pricing reflects current market conditions.
Processes such as value engineering and benchmarking play a major role in their approach. Senior Estimators assess alternative methodologies, materials, and sequencing options to optimise cost without compromising quality or safety. They refine cost plans based on supplier feedback, market trends, and client expectations, ensuring the final estimate is realistic, competitive, and aligned with project goals.
The role carries significant challenges, particularly in today’s market where material and labour costs fluctuate frequently. Senior Estimators must balance accuracy with demanding tender deadlines, working quickly while maintaining precision. They also navigate complex client specifications, contractual requirements, and industry regulations, ensuring every cost aligns with the contractual scope and technical documentation.
At the same time, the role offers substantial career opportunities. Experienced Senior Estimators often progress into senior commercial roles such as Estimating Manager, Commercial Manager, Commercial Director, or Head of Pre-Construction. Others specialise in sectors such as infrastructure, energy, or complex civil engineering, where demand for expertise remains strong. Increasingly, their skill set also lends itself to roles in risk management, cost consultancy, and major project planning.
Senior Estimators are strategic contributors in every construction business. Their work influences project viability, profitability, and competitiveness. By providing accurate cost data and realistic budgets, they enable organisations to make informed go/no-go decisions on tenders and ensure that pricing strategies support sustainable, long-term growth.
Their role supports efficient resource planning, helping companies reduce waste and contribute to more sustainable construction practices. They act as a key liaison between clients, contractors, design teams, and commercial leadership, ensuring everyone understands the commercial framework of the project. Through careful planning, cost control, and strategic insight, Senior Estimators directly influence project outcomes and client satisfaction.
The construction industry is evolving, and so is the estimator role. Technological advancements are reshaping cost planning, with AI, machine learning, and digital measurement tools becoming increasingly commonplace. These technologies enhance accuracy, speed up take-offs, and support better forecasting of material and labour costs.
Industry demands are also shifting. There is growing emphasis on sustainable and green construction practices, creating a need for Senior Estimators who understand low-carbon materials, energy-efficient methods, and lifecycle costing. As Scotland continues to invest in major infrastructure upgrades transport networks, utilities, energy transition projects, and urban development — the demand for highly skilled Senior Estimators with experience in large-scale, complex projects will only increase.
Senior Estimators play an essential role in shaping the financial success of construction and civil engineering projects. Their ability to analyse costs, manage risks, optimise budgets, and lead the tendering process makes them indispensable to every contractor and consultancy. They bridge the gap between technical design, commercial strategy, and client expectations influencing outcomes long before a project reaches site.
At Allstaff, we work with clients across Scotland who rely on experienced Senior Estimators to drive accuracy, competitiveness, and long-term project success. Whether supporting major infrastructure works or commercial developments, their expertise remains one of the most valuable assets in the construction industry.