Job Title: Senior Cost Manager - Site Delivery Programme
Location: Suffolk - Ipswich
Weekly Hours: 37.5 hours
Start Date: ASAP
End Date: 31/12/2026
Vetting Level Required: BPSS Clearance
Qualifications: Degree or equivalent qualification in business analysis, accounting, finance, construction, engineering, project management, or a related technical field.
IR35 Status: Inside
 
A market leading consultancy is looking for a Senior Cost Manager on a 9-month contract to work on a major infrastructure project in Suffolk. As a Senior Cost Manager in the Central PMO team, you will work closely with the functional lead to deploy and continuously improve all Cost Management aspects of the project. You will provide oversight and assurance within the Cost Management framework that supports the SZC governance structure, organisation, and delivery model.
 
You will play a crucial role in ensuring the proper utilisation of software applications and supporting infrastructure to make Cost Management at SZC "Digital by Default."
 
The ideal candidate will have experience working within the Cost Management function on large-scale, mega projects and possess a strong understanding of both client and supply chain scope. You should have significant knowledge of Project Controls functions and the ability to carry out assurance activities without relying on the functional lead. Experience in providing presentations and narrative reports for various levels within the organisation, from delivery teams to boards and investors, is essential. You must be comfortable working with Executive Leadership Teams and capable of deputising for the Cost Lead in coordinating and running Cost Steering Committees.
 
As a people leader, you will support the development of your team, building and maintaining a high-performing group.
 
Principal Accountabilities
 
·Support the Cost Lead in ensuring adherence to functional procedures, guidelines, and work instructions within the Cost Management function.
·Assist in preparing presentations, reports, and insightful analysis to support key stakeholders in decision-making to positively impact project outcomes.
·Provide functional support to Programme teams.
·Act as the first line of defence for assurance of Cost information provided by Programme Delivery teams, ensuring the cost management system is updated in line with the project schedule.
·Serve as the first escalation point for Programme Cost Leads in relation to business-as-usual requirements.
·Ensure that cost management is consistently aligned with project leadership and provides value-added insights.
·Contribute to the development and implementation of the Cost Management Framework, ensuring its integration within SZC, and liaise with other functions within project controls and key stakeholders.
·Lead the delivery and advancement of the "Digital by Default" approach for the Cost Management function.
·Take responsibility for the timely production and quality of all month-end data sets and performance reports related to Cost Management.
·Accurately assess the Current Forecast for the project, including the impact of approved changes and trends.
 
Key Skills and Experience:
 
·Extensive experience within the Cost Management function on large-scale projects, ideally in a nuclear or infrastructure environment.
·Strong knowledge of Project Controls and their integration with Cost Management.
·Experience in assurance activities and the ability to work independently without reliance on the functional lead.
·Proven track record of producing narrative reports and presentations for various stakeholders, including senior leadership, boards, and investors.
·Experience working with Executive Leadership Teams and comfortable deputising for the Cost Lead in steering committees.
·Demonstrated ability to lead and develop high-performing teams, with a focus on professional development.
·Familiarity with digital tools and systems related to cost management and project controls.
 
If you are a highly motivated and experienced Cost Manager with a passion for ensuring effective cost management in large-scale projects, we would love to hear from you.
 
 
FOOTNOTE:
 
If you feel that you are right for this role technically, but the rate, location or seniority does not suit you specifically then please still feel free to send us your CV. We constantly recruit for roles very similar to this one at all levels UK Wide. We are always keen to chat with you discreetly about your employment situation.
 
Even if you are happy in your current role for now, we always welcome calls from Highways, Infrastructure & Transportation professionals keen to make their introductions for future months or years. Our specialist team has a combined 100+ years' experience in this market. Please call Evan Brookes at Carrington West on 02393 876025 for more information.
 
By applying for this position, you are agreeing for Carrington West to hold and process your personal data in accordance to our Data Protection Policy. Your data will be shared with third party clients specifically relevant to any roles you have applied for. If at any stage, you wish to withdraw your consent please contact us.