We are seeking an experienced Cost Commercial Lead to join our dynamic team in Johannesburg. This role will focus on transport and utilities projects, which involve complex engineering and technical requirements, significant capital expenditure over extended periods. The ideal individual should have a strong background in cost management, commercial management, risk mitigation and execution-stage experience across heavy civils and infrastructure projects.
Experience with rail (perway, OHTE, signaling), aviation (runways, aprons, specialized services (AGL, navaids, BHS), ports (hard-standing, quay equipment) will be highly beneficial.
You will play a key role in working with the account lead to ensure accurate cost estimation, financial reporting, process efficiency and contractual compliance throughout the project lifecycle as well as management, growth and development of the project team.
Cost Planning & Estimation:
- Prepare detailed cost estimates and Bills of Quantities (BoQ) for construction projects, including specialized systems common in transport projects
- Conduct value engineering exercises to identify cost savings proposals without compromising quality
- Develop multi-scenario forecasts to support client decision-making
- Provide accurate cost advice throughout the design and construction phases
Tendering & Procurement:
- Manage tender processes, including preparation of prequalification, tender lists, tender documents and evaluation of bids
- Negotiate with contractors, subcontractors and suppliers to ensure competitive pricing and value for money
- Advise on procurement strategies to optimize supplier selection and contract terms
Contract Administration:
- Draft and review contracts in line with client standards, FIDIC, NEC and JBCC standards
- Oversee post-contract cost control: Interim valuations, progress payments, change orders, and final accounts
- Manage contractual claims (e.g., variations, EOTs) with quantum assessments and entitlement reviews
- Monitor cost variances against baselines, implementing corrective actions to maintain budget adherence
Project Financial Control:
- Produce accurate monthly cost reports with variance analysis, cash flows and risk projections.
- Ensure audit-ready documentation for compliance and client audits
- Reconcile as-built costs against estimates, capturing lessons learned for internal knowledge base
- Forecast and maintain accurate Estimated final costs (EFC’s) for the projects
- Manage internal benchmarking and lesson learnt reports across the various projects
Risk & Value Management:
- Identify potential cost risks and implement mitigation strategies.
- Advise on value engineering opportunities, especially for complex mechanical and electrical systems.
Collaboration & Communication:
- Work closely with the account lead, client, project managers and project team to ensure financial objectives are met
- Management, growth and development of the internal project team
- Identify cross-selling opportunities and contribute to bids for new commissions and continuous appointment
- Drive process improvements to enhance consultancy efficiency (e.g., standardized templates and processes).
- Manage internal project financials, e.g. project and contract setup, forecasting, invoice generation and issuance to clients