Cost Manager – Defence (Real Estate)

Overview

In this role you will manage cost consultancy tasks across pre- and post-contract phases, producing estimates, analysing tenders, and ensuring projects stay on budget. You will build trusted client relationships and support junior team members while delivering value through cost checks, valuations, and post-contract settlements. The position involves NEC4 two-stage procurement and close collaboration with clients and other consultants. You will contribute to diverse, high-value projects within a leading global firm that values professional excellence.

Pay / Benefits

• great place to work
• healthy, productive and flexible working environment
• focus on work-life balance
• equal opportunity employer
• diversity and inclusion initiative

Responsibilities

• Manage quantity surveying and cost consultancy tasks across pre- and post-contract phases
• Produce cost estimates and oversee tender processes with analysis and recommendations
• Conduct cost checks, valuations, and ensure timely, accurate reporting on larger projects
• Support value engineering to keep projects within budget from design to completion
• Handle post-contract duties including variations, final accounts, and settlements
• Build and maintain strong client relationships and collaborate with other consultants
• Support junior team members to deliver cost management services efficiently
• Adhere to security clearance requirements and liaise with project stakeholders

Key requirements

• Degree or Masters in Quantity Surveying or equivalent
• RICS membership or working towards
• Experience on high-value, complex projects in a consultancy environment
• Strong communication, client relationship and negotiation skills
• Proficiency in cost management, budgeting, and procurement
• Strong IT skills and knowledge of CostX and Microsoft Office
• Ability to work independently and under tight deadlines, as part of a team

• excellent communication
• client-facing
• negotiation
• team player
• CostX
• Microsoft Office

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