Senior Cost Manager – Central & Local Government

Overview

In this role you lead the commercial delivery for a portfolio of central and local government projects, shaping cost management strategies and ensuring best-value outcomes. You work with clients and cross-functional teams to manage budgets, forecasts, and contract performance, guiding stakeholders through complex financial commitments. You’ll mentor junior staff and negotiate final accounts, contributing to public-sector project success at scale and pace.

Pay / Benefits

• flexible working environment
• healthy work-life balance
• inclusive environment
• equal opportunity employer
• great place to work
• voice to affect change

Responsibilities

• Lead the commercial delivery of a range of projects
• Develop and maintain relationships with clients, colleagues, and project stakeholders
• Manage project costs, forecasts, reporting, and contract performance in line with project objectives
• Monitor cost variances, cash flow, and contract changes to ensure effective commercial management
• Collaborate with client and contractor teams to achieve project KPIs, objectives, and best-value outcomes
• Provide commercial advice and support to stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle
• Negotiate and agree final accounts
• Support, mentor, and develop junior team members

Key requirements

• Strong stakeholder communication and relationship management skills
• At least five years’ experience delivering construction or infrastructure projects
• Experience in Cost Management, Contract Management (JCT and NEC), Procurement, and Risk Management
• Knowledge of cost planning, estimating, valuation, reporting, and change control processes
• A collaborative approach with the ability to build effective working relationships
• Experience managing commissions, supporting team development, and sharing best practice
• The ability to identify efficiencies and drive improvements throughout the project lifecycle
• Good understanding of construction industry practices, including procurement routes, value management, and value engineering
• Degree or HNC level qualification
• Professionally qualified is desired (MRICS or similar)

• strong stakeholder communication
• relationship management
• collaborative approach
• Cost Management
• Contract Management (JCT and NEC)
• Procurement

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