A company wins a major tender without hiring a Project Manager.

The Challenge

A Neuchâtel-based SME specialising in eco-friendly packaging solutions for the food industry was facing a decisive commercial opportunity.

The company needed to respond to a strategic RFP:

• Response deadline: just 6 weeks

• Commercial potential: a 3-year contract valued at CHF 3.2 million

• Technical complexity requiring coordination of multiple departments

• Sales team already fully engaged on other priority projects

With annual growth of 35% and the chance to become the primary supplier for a major retail chain, hiring a permanent project manager seemed inappropriate for such a one-off but urgent requirement.

The Approach

Through The Links, the company connected with Claire, an expert in tender management with 14 years of experience in the consumer goods sector. Her mission: to lead the entire RFP response process while training the internal team.

Her action plan:

• Analysis & Scoping: Interpreting the brief, identifying key requirements, creating a detailed response plan

• Coordination & Production: Leading working groups, consolidating technical and commercial arguments, developing the required prototypes

• Finalisation & Handover: Preparing the final proposal, coaching for the presentation, and training the team on best practices for future tenders

The Outcome.

In just 5 weeks, the intervention delivered tangible results:

• Full submission of the proposal 48 hours ahead of deadline

• Structured commercial proposal including four exclusive packaging innovations

• Contract awarded against competition from three international rivals

• 22% cost saving against the original production budget

• ROI: significant savings compared to hiring a dedicated project manager

"Claire’s involvement transformed our approach to tendering. Her methodology not only secured us this critical contract but has also sustainably improved our commercial process for all future projects."– Thomas, Sales Director

A flexible approach for fast results

In a world where every decision counts, The Links connects you with the sharpest talent to tackle your strategic challenges without delay.

No more lengthy, costly processes: with The Links, you gain rapid access to qualified experts, ready to step in exactly when you need them most.

Gain agility. Boost your competitiveness.

Because every assignment is an opportunity for innovation and success, The Links creates tailored connections between your challenges and the best specialists on the market.

The right expertise, at the right time.