Lead Cost Manager

Roles and responsibilities

• Undertakes delivery of projects across the full spectrum of cost management activities under minimal direction and while managing a team.
• Engaging with Clients and being the main point of contract across a variety of complex projects.
• Accountable for briefing the team on the project scope to ensure roles and responsibilities are understood.
• Leading deliverables such as Feasibility estimates, cost plans, procurement & tendering, and contract awards.
• Leading a Team to carry out Measurement Activities within the Office.
• Leading value engineering and value management initiatives.
• Leading by example and creating a inclusive work environment.
• Ability to develop and understand benchmarking data
• Manages the resources on a project and within the established budget.
• Monitors and manages the performance of Project Surveyors and other direct reports.
• Ensures all deliverables comply with the AECOM Project Delivery System.
• Coordinating with Senior Staff to allocate adequate resources to complete tasks to the timescale required.
• Under limited supervision, normally receives little instruction on routine work, general instructions on new assignments. .

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

• Minimum 10 years’ experience in this field
• Must have a QS or Engineering or similar degree
• Must have pre-contract experience within a consultancy
• Must have extensive exposure to Cost Planning at all stages.
• RICS membership.
• Experience in operational aspects of a business is beneficial.
• Must have a QS or Engineering or similar degree

Desired candidate profile

1. Cost Estimation and Budgeting:

• Prepare Cost Estimates: Assist in the preparation of detailed cost estimates for projects, including labor, materials, and other expenses. This can involve using industry-standard cost estimation software or methods.
• Budget Preparation: Help develop project budgets based on cost estimates, project scope, and timelines. Ensure budgets are realistic, comprehensive, and aligned with the client's requirements.
• Cost Planning: Develop cost plans and financial forecasts, making sure that the estimated costs align with available resources and project scope.

2. Cost Control and Monitoring:

• Track Project Costs: Monitor and track the costs associated with construction projects, identifying any discrepancies or potential overruns.
• Manage Variations: Assist in managing variations and changes to the project scope, ensuring that any changes are accurately priced and documented.
• Cost Reporting: Assist in the preparation of regular cost reports, presenting financial data to senior managers or clients. This includes tracking project progress, expenditure, and cost forecasting.
• Identify Cost Savings: Help identify opportunities for cost savings during the project lifecycle, through value engineering or alternative procurement strategies.

3. Contract Administration:

• Review Contracts: Support the review and analysis of contracts, ensuring they contain the appropriate cost clauses and terms for managing project financials.
• Evaluate Tender Submissions: Assist in evaluating tender submissions from contractors and subcontractors, ensuring that the bids are realistic, competitive, and compliant with budget expectations.
• Payment Certification: Help assess payment applications from contractors and subcontractors, ensuring they are consistent with the progress of the work and contract terms.
• Manage Claims and Disputes: Support the process of reviewing and resolving any contractual claims or disputes related to costs or payments.

4. Financial Management:

• Cash Flow Management: Assist in managing project cash flow by monitoring and controlling the timing of payments and receipts, ensuring that project funds are allocated efficiently.
• Final Accounts: Help prepare and negotiate final accounts, ensuring that all costs, including variations and additional works, are properly accounted for and that the final settlement is in line with contractual terms.
• Cost Reconciliation: Assist in reconciling the financial accounts at project completion, ensuring that final costs align with the initial budget and identifying any lessons learned for future projects.