We are seeking an experienced Senior Cost Manager to lead the delivery of cost management and commercial advisory services for high-profile commercial interior fit-out projects. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing project costs throughout the full project lifecycle, from concept and design development through procurement, construction, and project close-out.
This role requires strong expertise in workplace, corporate office, retail, and commercial fit-out projects, with the ability to provide strategic cost advice, manage procurement activities, oversee commercial performance, and maintain strong client relationships. The individual will play a key role in ensuring projects are delivered on budget while meeting client expectations, programme requirements, and quality standards.
Key Responsibilities
Cost Planning & Pre-Contract Services
- Lead the preparation of feasibility studies, benchmarking exercises, elemental cost plans, budgets, and cost estimates for commercial interior fit-out projects.
- Provide cost advice during concept, schematic, and detailed design stages.
- Review design development and identify commercial risks, cost drivers, and value engineering opportunities.
- Develop and manage project budgets, cash flow forecasts, and cost strategies aligned with client objectives.
- Advise clients on market conditions, procurement approaches, and budget management throughout the project lifecycle.
Procurement & Tender Management
- Develop procurement strategies for interior fit-out packages and specialist trades.
- Prepare tender documentation, scope reviews, pricing schedules, and commercial evaluation criteria.
- Lead tender evaluations, contractor negotiations, and award recommendations.
- Review supplier and contractor quotations to ensure competitiveness and alignment with project budgets.
- Support contract execution and procurement governance requirements.
Post-Contract Cost Management
- Administer commercial aspects of projects during construction and fit-out delivery.
- Manage variations, change control processes, payment assessments, and final account settlements.
- Monitor project costs, commitments, forecasts, and financial performance.
- Review contractor claims and provide commercial recommendations.
- Identify commercial risks and implement mitigation measures to protect project outcomes.
- Ensure project delivery remains within approved budgets and financial targets.
Commercial Interior Fit-Out Expertise
- Provide cost management support across key fit-out trades, including:
- Partitions and drywall systems
- Ceiling systems
- Architectural finishes
- Joinery and millwork
- Furniture, Fixtures & Equipment (FF&E)
- Loose furniture procurement
- Floor finishes and raised flooring systems
- Feature and specialist finishes
- Workplace technology and AV coordination
- Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) fit-out works
- Assess cost impacts arising from design changes, client variations, and programme adjustments.
- Support project teams in delivering design solutions that balance functionality, aesthetics, and budget requirements.
Client & Stakeholder Management
- Act as the primary commercial contact for clients and key stakeholders.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, designers, project managers, consultants, contractors, and suppliers.
- Lead cost reviews, budget workshops, procurement discussions, and commercial reporting meetings.
- Present cost reports, forecasts, and commercial recommendations to senior stakeholders.
- Maintain high levels of client satisfaction through proactive communication and professional service delivery.
Team Leadership & Mentoring
- Lead and mentor Cost Managers, Assistant Cost Managers, and Quantity Surveyors.
- Review deliverables to ensure consistency, quality, and technical accuracy.
- Support resource planning and workload management across multiple projects.
- Promote continuous improvement, technical excellence, and knowledge sharing within the team.
- Contribute to recruitment, coaching, and professional development initiatives.