Senior Manager – Budgeting & Costing (MEP)

PURPOSE

To develop, manage, and control detailed project budgets and cost estimates for all MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) works including HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing, and Fire-fighting systems across hospitality projects. The role ensures cost accuracy, value optimization, and financial control through detailed estimation, benchmarking, and coordination with design, project execution, and procurement teams, ensuring adherence to design intent, quality standards, and overall project viability.

KEY ORGANIZATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS

Reports to : VP – Design

Interacts with :

External - Consultants, Contractors, OEMs, Project Management Consultants, Vendors, Quantity Surveyors

Internal - Design, Projects, Procurement, Finance, Engineering, Operations

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Drive Operational Excellence

Prepare detailed cost estimates and project budgets for HVAC, Electrical, Plumbing, and Fire-fighting systems based on design drawings, specifications, and BOQs.

Evaluate design and tender documents for completeness, accuracy, and scope coverage prior to finalization.

Implement efficient cost management processes and tools to ensure budget adherence throughout the project lifecycle.

Coordinate closely with design and site teams to validate quantities, specifications, and cost implications during design development and execution stages.

Ensure compliance with Delegation of Authority (DOA), audit requirements, and organizational standards for all budgeting activities.

Strategic Sourcing & Cost Optimization

Conduct detailed rate analysis and benchmarking to determine realistic, market-aligned costs for MEP works.

Support procurement in technical and commercial bid evaluations through cost validation and vendor comparison.

Identify opportunities for value engineering and recommend cost-effective alternatives in design and material selection.

Continuously monitor project cost performance and highlight deviations with actionable recommendations.

Maintain a repository of cost data, vendor rates, and historical project budgets for future reference and benchmarking.

People Management

Provide direction and guidance to estimation and costing team members for effective budget preparation and validation.

Collaborate with design, project, and procurement teams to foster a cohesive and accountable working environment.

Promote skill enhancement and knowledge sharing on budgeting tools, estimation techniques, and market rate analysis.

Support succession planning by identifying and developing potential team talent for future leadership roles.

Business and Financial Acumen

Develop consolidated MEP cost summaries aligned with project feasibility and business objectives.

Conduct detailed variance analysis between estimated and actual costs, identifying key drivers and trends.

Prepare periodic cost performance reports and forecasts for review with VP – Design and Finance teams.

Ensure transparent communication of cost-related insights for effective financial decision-making.

Leadership

Act as the subject matter expert for all MEP budgeting and costing matters across hospitality projects.

Partner with design and leadership teams to ensure alignment between aesthetic, functional, and financial goals.

Drive adoption of standardized costing templates, processes, and reporting mechanisms across all projects.

Champion the integration of technology, data analytics, and automation tools for improved estimation accuracy and efficiency.

Compliance & Risk Management

Ensure compliance with corporate governance, contractual, and statutory financial requirements.

Identify potential cost and scope risks during design and estimation stages and recommend mitigation strategies.

Support management reviews and audits through timely documentation, cost validations, and justifications.

Uphold transparency and ethical conduct in all cost estimation and financial dealings.

Occupational Health & Safety Responsibilities

Ensure OH&S standards are factored into budgeting and costing of MEP systems and works.

Review vendor and contractor proposals for compliance with health, safety, and environmental norms.

Support OH&S performance tracking and documentation during budget evaluation and project audits.

QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s / Master’s Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil Engineering.

Additional qualification in Cost Management, Quantity Surveying, or Project Budgeting preferred.

WORK EXPERIENCE

10–15 years of experience in MEP budgeting, estimation, and cost control in hospitality, infrastructure, or real estate sectors.

Experience in managing budgets for complex, design-driven projects with cross-functional coordination.