Cost Manager

Role Overview

This position is for a Quantity Surveyor or Cost Manager who will take charge of cost and commercial management across the full project lifecycle. The role sits at the centre of client, consultant, and contractor relationships, turning early feasibility advice into robust estimates, procurement strategies, contract administration, and final accounts. Success means projects stay within approved budgets, changes are controlled, risks are visible, and clients receive clear, timely commercial reporting.

Key Responsibilities

• Work with clients and project teams to define requirements, test feasibility, and establish the commercial framework for each commission.
• Prepare, own, and present cost estimates and cost plans, applying value management and value engineering where the project stage allows.
• Run the procurement cycle end to end, covering pre-qualification, enquiries, bills of quantities, tender analysis, contractor selection, and contract documentation.
• Administer contracts and manage post-contract cost control, including valuations, change control, cost variances, cash flow, and timely applications.
• Produce monthly post-contract cost reports, forecast final costs, and present the commercial position to clients and senior stakeholders.
• Advise on contractual claims, risk management, and life cycle costing, ensuring governance and best practice are maintained.
• Negotiate and agree final accounts, driving accuracy in forecasts and budgets through to project completion.
• Lead cost management teams and commissions as required, upholding QA/QC procedures and building professional relationships with clients, colleagues, consultants, and contractors.

Requirements & Qualifications

• At least 4–5 years of progressive experience in quantity surveying or cost management, with a track record of handling multiple projects simultaneously.
• Degree in Quantity Surveying as a minimum qualification.
• BORAQS registration; RICS membership would be an added advantage.
• Proficiency in CostX for measurement, estimating, and cost planning tasks.
• Working knowledge of current building contracts and contract administration practices.
• Strong commercial judgement, accurate reporting, and the ability to interface confidently with clients, consultants, and contractors.
• Experience leading or contributing to cost management teams, with a commitment to QA/QC and professional standards.