Data Center Cost Manager

Overview

Our client is looking to recruit a Cost Manager specialized in Data Centre construction to join a major hyperscale project based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The appointed candidate will oversee comprehensive cost control measures throughout the project's lifespan, ensuring precise cost forecasting, commercial reporting, and adherence to financial governance. This role supports the efficient execution of complex, mission-critical data center infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

• Formulate, administer, and oversee project budgets, detailed cost plans, and financial forecasts.
• Generate and update detailed reports on costs, cash flow predictions, and commercial dashboards.
• Track project spending against approved budgets, identifying potential cost risks and opportunities.
• Handle change management processes, including evaluating contract variations and claims.
• Assess contractor and subcontractor cost submissions, payment claims, and final account settlements.
• Assist procurement processes through cost planning, tender assessment, and contract recommendations.
• Offer commercial guidance to project teams and key stakeholders throughout all project stages.
• Perform cost analyses, benchmarking, and value engineering to maximize project efficiency and outcomes.
• Ensure strict compliance with contract terms, commercial procedures, and governance frameworks.
• Contribute to risk management by identifying commercial risks and applying mitigation strategies.
• Coordinate with clients, consultants, contractors, and project teams to facilitate effective commercial management.
• Produce executive-level financial reports and present project cost performance to senior management.

Experience and Qualifications

• A Bachelor's degree in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field.
• Minimum of eight years’ experience in cost management or quantity surveying, with at least five years dedicated to Data Centre construction projects.
• Relevant hands-on experience in hyperscale or mission-critical data center projects is highly preferable.
• Well-versed in project cost management techniques including estimating, budgeting, forecasting, change management, and financial reporting.
• Familiarity with administering construction contracts such as FIDIC or similar contract forms.
• Demonstrated capability in managing project costs from initial contract stages through to final account reconciliation.
• Strong analytical, commercial acumen, negotiation aptitude, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel plus commercial reporting and cost management software tools.
• Membership in professional bodies such as RICS, AIQS, CIOB, or the equivalent is considered beneficial.

Compensation

The remuneration package will be negotiated based on the candidate’s experience, expectations, and prevailing market conditions.