Cost Manager

Role Overview We are recruiting for a Cost Manager to support a high‑value redevelopment project on a secure defence infrastructure site in the South West of England. This role plays a key part in managing, controlling, and forecasting project costs, ensuring delivery within budget while meeting programme and quality requirements in a highly regulated environment. Security Requirement: Due to the nature of the project, candidates must be eligible to obtain BPSS clearance. Additional security vetting may be required. Contract & Working Pattern * Contract: 42.5 hours per week * Location: South West England * Site attendance: Minimum 3 days per week on site * Salary: £50,000 – £75,000 (dependent on experience) Benefits & Package * Subsistence (subject to eligibility): * Approx. £56 per night * Nights in temporary accommodation: tax free * Nights at home: taxable * Permanent home address and temporary accommodation required * Approx. £1,680 per month before tax * Company car / car allowance / travel allowance up to £7,000 * Company vehicle provided will be a high‑spec electric vehicle * 8% employer‑matched pension contribution * Private healthcare * Life assurance * 26 days annual leave * 2 wellbeing days * 1 volunteering day per year * Personal and professional development support Key Responsibilities * Prepare accurate cost estimates and establish realistic project budgets * Analyse cost data, forecast expenditure, and produce financial reporting * Administer payments, variations, compensation events, and claims * Support procurement activities and negotiate best value within the supply chain * Identify, assess, and mitigate commercial and cost risks * Review costs, invoices, and change orders to ensure accuracy * Communicate clearly with stakeholders, contractors, and suppliers * Integrate cost management within wider project controls and programme delivery * Apply strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and regulations Skills & Experience Required Strong knowledge of cost management and financial principles Experience in budgeting, forecasting, and cost control Sound understanding of NEC4 contracts Excellent numerical, analytical, and problem‑solving skills High level of attention to detail Strong communication and negotiation capability Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines Advanced Excel skills (essential): Macros / VBA Pivot Tables and advanced data analysis Lookup and logical functions (INDEX/MATCH, XLOOKUP, nested IFs) Power Query and data modelling Dashboard creation and reporting Security & Eligibility Must be BPSS clearable Right to work in the UK required Further clearance may be required depending on project scope