Cost Manager - MEP

Position Overview

We are seeking a dedicated Cost Manager based in Manchester to oversee regional cost management and engineering with full responsibility for delivering precise, competitive prime costs and compliant tenders. This is a permanent role offering a competitive salary along with car or car allowance and flexible benefits.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the cost engineering team to meet sales and profit goals effectively.
• Ensure pricing consistency and compliance throughout all pre-construction phases following corporate processes and delegated authorities.
• Collaborate with Pre-Construction Leads to establish clear pricing strategies that balance profitability, risk mitigation, and client value.
• Provide monthly reporting on tender and PCSA progress, including any mitigation plans.
• Work closely with various teams including Operations, Commercial, Design, Procurement, and Planning to define and communicate tender pricing approaches.
• Deliver precise cost planning services while maintaining comprehensive historical cost data for diverse project types and sectors.
• Stay informed on market pricing trends, competitive landscape, associated risks, and key stakeholders.
• Validate procurement quotations and ensure optimal buying strategies with Procurement and technical leads while maintaining supply chain compliance.
• Manage Estimation, SharePoint, and related systems to ensure prompt monthly reporting.
• Coordinate post-contract award activities to transition winning bids to Operations with clear commercial insights and risk details.
• Uphold strict commercial confidentiality in all professional matters.

Candidate Requirements

• Management experience or a minimum of five years as a Senior Estimator.
• Preferably experience leading cost engineering or estimating teams.
• Strong commercial and financial understanding with the ability to engage stakeholders at all organizational levels.
• Proficient in cost planning, pricing strategies, and risk assessment.
• Familiarity with procurement and supply chain best practices.
• Mandatory evidence of training in Design and Commercial fields, Management, and Health & Safety.
• Professional management qualification and certifications in Design or Commercial disciplines are desirable.

Benefits and Perks

• Financial support when required to work away from home.
• 25 days annual holiday plus bank holidays.
• Competitive pension scheme with up to 8% employer contribution.
• Private healthcare coverage.
• Access to a 24/7 employee assistance program offering mental health support, counseling, and legal advice.
• Employee discounts and personal development programs.
• Various flexible benefits options.
• Car or car allowance provided.

Inclusivity and Recruitment Process

Our organization is committed to fostering an inclusive culture where all individuals are respected and treated fairly. We aim to clearly communicate our recruitment processes beforehand, and we are open to providing necessary accommodations to support applicants throughout hiring stages.

About the Company

Founded in 1921, we are one of the UK's foremost independent engineering and services firms with a turnover of £500 million and a workforce of approximately 3,000 employees. We operate across multiple sectors in building and infrastructure, delivering innovative project solutions through advanced technologies. Professional growth is a priority, and we provide structured development paths, ongoing training, and continuous support to our employees to maximize their potential.