Lead Cost Manager / Quantity Surveyor - Data Center Construction

About the Role

In this position the Lead Cost Manager will own cost management across the full project lifecycle, ensuring budgets are met while maintaining quality, compliance and value‑engineering objectives. The role also involves client‑facing engagements, mentorship of junior staff, and continuous improvement of cost‑management tools and processes. • Lead cost management across the project lifecycle, covering budgeting, estimating, cost control, change management, and final account closeout. • Develop and present detailed cost plans, budgets, and estimates aligned with project scope and objectives. • Prepare and deliver accurate monthly cost reports, forecasts, and executive‑level presentations. • Maintain benchmarking data, historical cost records, and lessons learned for continuous improvement. • Review design development and contractor pricing, provide commercial input, and lead negotiations for fair contract pricing. • Provide strategic advice on procurement strategies, bid analysis, and contract administration. • Oversee contingency tracking, commitment logs, and cost impact reporting across multiple packages or phases. • Drive value engineering and design optimization initiatives to identify cost‑saving opportunities. • Coordinate with project controls and scheduling teams to align cost forecasts with progress updates. • Mentor and coach junior team members, fostering professional development and best practices. • Contribute to the enhancement of internal cost management tools, templates, and processes. • Ensure compliance with internal financial systems, client‑specific requirements, and regulatory controls, including applicable SOX responsibilities. • Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, contractors, vendors, and internal teams.

Key Responsibilities

• ▸cost management
• ▸budgeting
• ▸cost forecasting
• ▸value engineering
• ▸procurement strategy
• ▸contract negotiation

What You Bring

The firm is seeking a Lead Cost Manager to oversee cost management for a large‑scale, mission‑critical data centre construction program. The role combines advanced technical expertise, strategic thinking, and team leadership, and offers a hybrid work model with three days per week in the Phoenix office. Candidates should hold a bachelor’s degree in construction management, engineering or a related discipline and possess 8‑12+ years of progressive cost‑management experience, including leadership responsibilities. Required skills include cost planning, budgeting, financial reporting, procurement strategy, and proficiency with industry‑standard cost‑management software; RICS accreditation and consultancy experience are a plus. • Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field. • 8–12+ years of progressive cost management experience with leadership responsibilities. • Expertise in cost planning, budgeting, financial reporting, and change management. • Strong knowledge of procurement strategies and commercial management of contracts. • Proficiency with industry‑standard cost management software and tools. • Advanced analytical, problem‑solving abilities and meticulous attention to detail. • Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skills. • Desirable: experience with large‑scale data centre or high‑tech projects, MEP systems, RICS accreditation, and consultancy background.

Requirements

• ▸bachelor's
• ▸8+ years
• ▸cost planning
• ▸procurement
• ▸cost software
• ▸rics

Work Environment

Onsite