Senior / Lead Cost Manager (Pre - Contract)

Job Description We are seeking an experienced Lead or Senior Cost Manager to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate should have extensive pre-contract experience and a strong background in real estate sector, with a focus on commercial real estate. You will play a key role in ensuring our projects are delivered within scope, on time, and within budget while maintaining quality. Responsibilities: • Lead pre-contract cost management responsibilities. • Provide advice and support on cost-effective solutions, including value engineering. • Conduct risk assessments and ensure contingency budgets are managed appropriately. • Prepare regular reports on projects highlighting any deviations from the budget. • Review and analyze project costs, including Preliminaries, Overheads, and materials. • Ensure compliance with industry standards, client requirements, and regulatory bodies. • Mentor and train junior cost managers. • Collaborate with clients and other stakeholders to ensure the project is managed effectively. Qualifications Education: • Degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related field. • Professional accreditation (e.g., MRICS, AIQS, or equivalent) is highly preferred. Experience: • 10+ years in cost management, with a strong focus on pre-contract. • Proven ability to lead and manage multiple projects independently. • Excellent written and verbal communication skills. • Experience in client-facing roles and stakeholder coordination. • Understanding of local cost benchmarks. • UAE market experience is mandatory. Technical Skills: • Proficiency in cost planning, estimating, and tender documentation. • Ability to present cost strategies and reports to clients and senior stakeholders. • Strong understanding of various methods of measurement (e.g., NRM, POMI, CESMM). • Skilled in measurement software such as CostX or similar. Leadership: • Ability to lead cost management activities across multiple projects. • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. • Capable of mentoring junior staff and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams.