Drive the financial heartbeat of our projects.
Salary - 48,078
Work Type - Hybrid
Job Location - Lingley Mere (UU), Lingley Green Avenue, Great Sankey, Warrington, WA5 3LP
Role Type - Permanent
Employment Type - Full Time
Working Hours - 37.0 Hours per Week
United Utilities’ (UU) purpose is to deliver great water for a stronger, greener and healthier North West of England. We are committed to providing our services in a way that respects the environment, supports the economy, and benefits society.
We value diversity, inclusion and innovation in our workplace, and we foster a culture where our people can grow, excel, and be themselves.
We uphold our ethics, values and business model to fulfil our mission and, by setting clear goals and objectives, we create sustainable long-term value for our colleagues, customers and communities. Whether you work with a team that shares your vision or join a network of peers with similar interests, you will find a welcoming and supportive organisation to be part of.
We’ve got a lot to offer. You’ll be part of a thriving FTSE 100 company and will enjoy a range of core benefits that reflect your value and value contribution.
Benefits
* A generous annual leave package of 26 days, which increases to 30 days after four years of service (increases one day per year), in addition to 8 bank holidays
* A competitive pension scheme with up to 14% employer contribution, 21% combined, and life cover
* Up to 10.5% performance-related bonus scheme, as well as recognition awards for outstanding achievements
* A comprehensive healthcare plan through our company-funded scheme
* MyGymDiscounts - gym and wellness benefit that offers up to 25% off on gym memberships and digital fitness subscriptions
* Best Doctors
* Salary Finance
* Wealth at Work courses
* Deals and discounts
* EVolve Car Scheme
* Employee Assistance Plan
* Mental health first aiders
* ShareBuy
* MORE Choices flexible benefits
* Enhanced parental leave schemes
Job Purpose
As a Cost Manager, you’ll keep budgets on track, forecasts sharp and reporting rock solid—supporting the PMO to deliver exceptional value across the wholesale business.
What You'll Be Doing
* Own cost management across projects—actuals, forecasts, budgets and change control
* Collaborate with planning, risk, controls and commercial teams to optimise performance
* Maintain accurate cost, budget and change processes aligned to WBS/OBS
* Track commitments, journals and accruals with Project Managers
* Analyse trends, assess impacts and embed changes to baselines quickly and cleanly
* Support compensation events and early warnings with Commercial/Estimating
* Produce reliable forecasts and EVM reporting, analysing variances and trends
* Lead on cost risk analysis and support the QCRA process
* Stay informed on industry benchmarks, inflation and market trends
About You
* Detail‑focused with strong cost management or project controls experience
* Financially aware and confident analysing data and trends
* Clear communicator who works well with stakeholders at all levels
* Comfortable challenging constructively to maintain data integrity
This role may not be eligible for the visa sponsorship
What You'll Bring
* Relevant degree or equivalent experience
* Professional qualification (MAPM/ACostE or equivalent)
* Strong Cost Management / Project Controls background
* Solid financial awareness and experience using cost management systems
* Excellent stakeholder and communication skills
* Sharp attention to detail with the ability to problem‑solve and challenge
* Utilities/Water sector experience is preferred
Why join us
* Be part of a high‑performing PMO team that plays a crucial role in delivering major projects
* Work in a collaborative environment where your ideas, analysis and expertise genuinely influence outcomes
* Develop your career with access to professional development, industry qualifications and progression opportunities
* Gain exposure to complex, high‑value projects that will strengthen your technical and commercial skills
* Join an organisation committed to innovation, continuous improvement and doing the right thing for customers and communities
We rely on every employee to ensure our customers receive the best possible service, day in, day out. In return, we ensure that you will be well rewarded for your efforts, from an excellent salary through to development opportunities that will really kick start a thriving career here at UU.