Cost Manager

Job Description : Quantity Surveyor (20+ Years Experience) – Cost & Contract Administration Lead

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly experienced Quantity Surveyor with 20+ years of professional experience to lead the Cost Management and Contract Administration functions for major infrastructure and building projects. The ideal candidate will possess deep technical expertise, proven leadership capabilities, and a strong track record of successfully managing project budgets, contracts, claims, and commercial risks.

Key Responsibilities

1. Cost Management & Estimation

Lead preparation of detailed cost estimates, BOQs, cost plans, and value engineering proposals.

Review and validate contractor cost submissions and perform cost variance analyses.

Develop project cost-control strategies and ensure adherence to approved budgets.

Provide expert advice on cost-saving opportunities and financial forecasts.

2. Contract Administration

Manage full lifecycle of contracts, including drafting, reviewing, negotiating, and administering contract documents.

Ensure compliance with contract terms, conditions, and statutory requirements.

Evaluate and certify interim payment applications, variations, and change orders.

Maintain accurate contractual records, correspondence logs, and claim registers.

3. Claims & Dispute Management

Lead assessment and preparation of claims, EOT requests, and commercial justifications.

Coordinate with legal teams for dispute resolution, arbitration, or negotiations.

Provide expert opinion on contractual conflicts and risk issues.

4. Procurement & Tendering

Lead tender documentation, bid evaluation, and procurement strategy development.

Prepare pre-tender estimates, tender addendums, and commercial clarifications.

Conduct contractor negotiations and provide recommendations for contract award.

5. Leadership & Team Management

Lead and mentor QS teams, cost engineers, and contract administrators.

Oversee quality of deliverables and ensure adherence to company standards.

Coordinate with project managers, design leads, clients, and stakeholders.

Drive continuous improvement in cost and contract management processes.

6. Reporting & Stakeholder Communication

Prepare cost reports, cash flow forecasts, commercial dashboards, and contractual status updates.

Present financial and contractual insights to senior management and clients.

Ensure transparent and proactive communications on risks and opportunities.

Qualifications & Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, or related field (Master’s preferred).

Minimum 20 years of experience in quantity surveying, cost management, and contract administration.

Proven experience leading commercial and contractual functions on large-scale infrastructure or building projects.

Strong understanding of FIDIC, NEC, and other international contract forms.

Expertise in cost-control tools, estimating software, and contract management systems.

Excellent communication, negotiation, analytical, and leadership skills.

Preferred Attributes

Chartered status (RICS / AIQS / CEng or equivalent).

Experience working with multinational consultants or contractors.

Strong problem-solving abilities and commercial acumen.

Ability to work under pressure and manage complex project portfolios.