Lead Cost Manager
We are seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Cost Manager to join our team in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. In this pivotal role, you will lead comprehensive cost management services on significant capital construction programs, serving as a strategic partner to clients and stakeholders. You will drive commercial excellence, manage complex cost control initiatives, and mentor a high-performing cost management team throughout the entire project lifecycle. This is an exceptional opportunity for a detail-oriented professional who combines analytical rigor with collaborative leadership and a commitment to delivering innovative solutions.
- Lead and mentor a cost management team whilst serving as the primary point of contact for clients and stakeholders, maintaining transparent communication and building strong collaborative relationships throughout the project lifecycle
- Develop and implement comprehensive cost planning, estimating, and cost control strategies for complex construction projects, including quantity surveying assessments, change control processes, and contract administration
- Monitor project budgets, track financial performance, and prepare accurate forecasts, margin reports, and detailed cost analysis to support informed decision-making
- Coordinate with general contractors, owner representatives, and external stakeholders to ensure seamless integration of cost management services within the broader construction process
- Develop and execute strategic plans aligned with organizational goals, incorporating risk mitigation strategies, business management systems, and key performance indicators
- Provide strategic advice on contracting, procurement strategy, and capital planning whilst participating in business development activities, proposal development, and RFP responses
- Ensure compliance with internal controls, audit requirements, and SOX responsibilities where applicable
- Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in Cost Consultancy and Quantity Surveying, preferably within a consultancy environment
- Bachelor's degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline
- MRICS qualification or equivalent professional accreditation in quantity surveying or cost management
- Substantial UAE/GCC experience, including exposure to complex and high-value capital projects
- Demonstrated expertise in both pre-contract and post-contract cost management across the full project lifecycle
Comprehensive capabilities in:
- Cost planning and estimating
- Benchmarking and value engineering
- Procurement and tendering strategy
- Cost reporting and commercial management
- Variation and change management
- Claims and final account negotiations
- Proven experience leading, mentoring, and developing high-performing cost management teams
- Strong client-facing skills with demonstrated ability to build and maintain senior stakeholder relationships
- Extensive experience preparing and presenting proposals, fee submissions, and RFP responses
- Commercial acumen with the ability to identify business opportunities and contribute to business development and account growth initiatives
- Advanced proficiency in financial management, budget forecasting, and margin analysis
- Demonstrated expertise in risk management, mitigation strategies, and contingency planning
- Strong knowledge of business management systems, project controls methodologies, and delivery frameworks
- Excellent presentation, written, and verbal communication skills with the ability to convey complex information clearly to diverse audiences
- Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously
- Analytical mindset with exceptional attention to detail and accuracy
Leadership & Personal Attributes:
- Strong leadership and people-management skills with the ability to coach, delegate, and support professional development
- Excellent communication, presentation, and influencing abilities
- Proactive, accountable, and client-focused approach
- Sound commercial judgment and strong problem-solving capabilities
- Confidence in managing challenging stakeholders and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams
- Strategic thinking and business acumen with a focus on innovation and continuous improvement
- Resilience and adaptability in dynamic project environments
- Commitment to inclusive leadership and fostering a collaborative, supportive team culture
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Join our social media conversations for more information about Turner & Townsend and our exciting future projects: