How to engage the NextGen bidder, by a NextGen bidder

What does the next generation of bid professionals want from the industry and what can the industry learn from them? In this episode of the Optimize Podcast, Matt Light is joined by Michael Chacko, Technical Bid Writer at Tecknuovo and APMP Practitioner, to discuss attracting, developing, and retaining the next generation of bid and proposal professionals. Drawing on his experience entering the profession directly from university and working across both multinational organisations and SMEs, Michael shares insights into career development, strategic bidding, stakeholder engagement, executive sponsorship, and the growing role of AI in the profession. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction and welcome 03:45 – Michael's journey into bidding straight from university 07:00 – Why bidding became a career choice 10:00 – Explaining the bidding profession to others 12:30 – Moving from operational support to strategic influence 18:00 – Building collaboration with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) 25:00 – Creating change and improving bid culture 29:00 – Attracting and engaging the next generation of bidders 34:00 – Mentorship, career progression, and developing talent 38:00 – AI, innovation, and the future of bidding 43:00 – Quick-fire questions and key takeaways In this episode, you'll learn Why bidding is much more than "just writing" How bid professionals can become strategic contributors to business growth The importance of collaborating effectively with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) How executive sponsorship can elevate the bid function Why career progression isn't always about moving into management How organisations can attract and engage the next generation of bid professionals What experienced professionals can learn from newer entrants to the industry How AI is changing the way bid teams work and develop Key Takeaways ✔ Think strategically, regardless of your role or title ✔ Build strong relationships across the business ✔ Create clear pathways for developing bid talent ✔ Encourage curiosity, innovation, and knowledge sharing ✔ Embrace AI as a tool to support—not replace—professional expertise Featured Guest Michael Chacko is a Technical Bid Writer at Tecknuovo and an APMP Practitioner-certified professional. Passionate about strategic bidding, collaboration, and professional development, Michael is committed to helping shape the future of the bid and proposal profession. Resources Mentioned APMP (Association of Proposal Management Professionals) APMP Bid Writing Focus Group VisibleThread Connect Follow Michael Chacko and Matt Light on LinkedIn for more insights on bidding, proposal management, and professional development.