Southern Water
Private UK utility supplying drinking water and treating wastewater across southern England.
Major Projects PMO Cost Lead
Lead cost management and strategy for major infrastructure projects.
Job Highlights
About the Role
Our Major Projects team delivers critical programmes that shape our business and communities. As the PMO Cost Lead you will set the strategic direction for cost management across a portfolio of high‑profile projects, lead a talented team, embed best practices, and ensure financial control and value optimisation throughout the project lifecycle. Key responsibilities include developing and implementing a comprehensive cost management framework, overseeing preparation and validation of portfolio and project budgets, forecasts and funding submissions, and providing expert oversight of Value of Work Done (VOWD) and Estimate to Complete (ETC) forecasts. You will also lead the development of Cost Breakdown Structures (CBS) aligned to Work Breakdown Structures (WBS), establish Earned Value Management (EVM) processes, support life‑cycle costing and value engineering, and build and mentor a high‑performing cost management team. A 24/7 incident support model ensures rapid resolution of water service issues, and all employees understand the importance of out‑of‑hours support. During the interview process you will discuss any incident support rotas applicable to the role. • Develop and implement a comprehensive cost management framework aligned to best practices. • Oversee portfolio and project budgets, forecasts, and funding submissions, including VOWD and ETC forecasts. • Lead creation of Cost Breakdown Structures (CBS) linked to Work Breakdown Structures (WBS) and establish Earned Value Management (EVM) processes. • Build and mentor a high‑performing cost management team fostering accuracy, accountability and innovation. • Utilize cost management software such as CostX, EcoSys, PRISM, SAP and Excel for reporting and analysis. • Contribute to Southern Water’s £7.8 bn investment plan, supporting resilience, sustainability and service excellence.
Key Responsibilities
- ▸cost framework
- ▸budget forecasts
- ▸cost breakdown
- ▸earned value
- ▸cost software
- ▸team mentoring
What You Bring
The role requires a strong understanding of cost estimation methodologies, procurement processes and financial controls, as well as proficiency in cost management software such as CostX, EcoSys, PRISM, SAP and Excel. Familiarity with NEC contracts and regulatory reporting requirements is also essential. Candidates must have proven experience leading PMO cost management within large‑scale infrastructure or capital programmes, strong leadership skills with a track record of developing teams, and excellent analytical, negotiation and communication abilities. Strategic thinking, a focus on continuous improvement and value delivery are also required. Desirable qualifications include a degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Finance or a related field, and professional certifications such as AACE, AMP or AcostE. Experience with Earned Value Management and cost assurance techniques is a plus. • Apply strong knowledge of cost estimation, procurement, financial controls and NEC contract requirements. • Demonstrate proven experience leading PMO cost management in large‑scale infrastructure programmes. • Exhibit strong leadership, analytical, negotiation and communication skills with a strategic focus on continuous improvement. • Hold a degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Finance or related field and professional certifications (AACE, AMP, AcostE) – desirable.
Requirements
- ▸costx
- ▸sap
- ▸nec
- ▸aace
- ▸cost management
- ▸leadership
Benefits
Southern Water is investing £7.8 bn for 2025‑30 to enhance resilience, sustainability and service excellence, offering an unparalleled opportunity to influence major strategic decisions and drive long‑term value creation. You will join a highly skilled leadership team during a period of significant change, working in an environment where senior professionals can make a meaningful impact. Our purpose is to deliver water for life, offering employees real meaning, personal growth, professional development and continuous innovation. We empower staff to play to their strengths and help shape a fair and positive future for all. • Join a diverse, inclusive workplace offering personal growth, professional development and the chance to impact water services for communities.
Work Environment
Hybrid