Major Projects PMO Senior Cost Controller

About the Role

Our Major Projects team delivers critical programmes that shape the future of our business and the communities we serve. As a Senior Cost Controller you will ensure robust cost management throughout the project lifecycle, from accurate forecasting and detailed analysis to managing change and working with external partners. This is an opportunity to make a real impact on projects that matter. You will manage and control project budgets, commitments, actual costs and forecasts aligned to the Cost Breakdown Structure. You will deliver accurate in‑month, in‑year and overall Estimate at Completion forecasts, prepare accruals that reflect Value of Work Done and Actual Cost Work Performed, and produce monthly cost reports with performance analysis, variances, trends and contingency drawdown. Cost performance will be monitored through Earned Value Management and Cost Performance Index, and you will collaborate with external partners to integrate forecasts and review contractor cost reports. All staff support 24/7 incident response to ensure rapid resolution of water service issues, and you will be briefed on any incident‑support rotas during your interview. If you are excited about the role but uncertain about meeting every requirement or about flexible hours, we encourage you to engage with us to discuss practical solutions. • Manage project budgets, commitments, actual costs and forecasts using the Cost Breakdown Structure. • Deliver accurate in‑month, in‑year and overall Estimate at Completion forecasts. • Prepare and manage accruals reflecting Value of Work Done and Actual Cost Work Performed. • Produce monthly cost reports with performance analysis, variance tracking, trend identification and contingency drawdown. • Monitor cost performance through Earned Value Management and Cost Performance Index. • Collaborate with external partners to integrate forecasts and review contractor cost reports. • Participate in 24/7 incident support to ensure continuous water service delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• ▸cost forecast
• ▸budget control
• ▸accruals
• ▸cost reports
• ▸earned value
• ▸incident support

What You Bring

The role requires expert use of cost management software such as Prism or Hexagon EcoSys, together with advanced Excel skills. Familiarity with NEC contracts and their key clauses is also essential. We are looking for candidates with extensive experience in cost management on large‑scale infrastructure projects, strong analytical and numerical abilities, and meticulous attention to detail. Excellent communication and stakeholder‑engagement skills, plus the ability to thrive in a fast‑paced environment, are also required. A degree in Civil Engineering, Finance or Quantity Surveying and certifications such as AACE, AMP or AcostE are desirable. • Expert user of Prism, Hexagon EcoSys and advanced Excel; familiar with NEC contract clauses. • Extensive experience in cost management for large‑scale infrastructure projects. • Strong analytical, numerical and detail‑oriented skills. • Excellent communication and stakeholder‑engagement abilities. • Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced project environment. • Desirable: degree in Civil Engineering, Finance or Quantity Surveying; certifications such as AACE, AMP or AcostE.

Requirements

• ▸prism
• ▸ecosys
• ▸excel
• ▸nec
• ▸aace
• ▸cost management

Benefits

The position of Senior Cost Controller closes on 4 February 2026 and is based in Falmer on a hybrid, permanent contract of 37 hours per week. Salary will be discussed at the screening stage. This role offers the chance to own cost control for ambitious regional infrastructure projects. Southern Water is leading the transformation of Britain’s water industry, investing £7.8 bn for 2025‑30 to enhance resilience, sustainability and service excellence. Joining now means working with a skilled leadership team during a period of significant change and having the chance to influence strategic decisions and create long‑term value. Our purpose is to deliver water for life, and we empower employees to drive personal growth, professional development and continual innovation. We offer a culture that values diverse perspectives, flexible working where possible, and the chance to make a meaningful contribution to society and the environment. • Opportunity to influence strategic decisions within a £7.8 bn water industry investment programme. • Inclusive, diverse workplace with reasonable adjustments and flexible working considerations.

Work Environment

Hybrid