Central Project Cost Engineering Manager
Location: Remote, Europe
World-changing careers, enabled by Johnson Matthey. With more than 200 years history, join us and help to accelerate the transition to net-zero!
As a Central Projects Cost Engineering Manager, you’ll provide functional leadership across JM for capital project cost estimating. This role establishes and owns JM project cost estimating standards; develops cost estimating best practices, tools and databases; and develops and coaches JM cost engineering professionals working across the company. The Global Project Cost Estimating Manager, supported by cost engineers dedicated to site-based projects, fulfils the cost estimating function directly for those site-based project teams to which the site/business is unable to assign a competent resource.
Please note that this role can be based remotely in Europe, although some travel will be required.
The role:
As a Cost Engineering Manager, you will help drive our goals by:
1. Develop and maintain JM cost estimating standards, best practices, tools and templates to standardise and support the work of Project Estimators
2. Work with Project Estimators to ensure they understand and implement these cost engineering standards and practices consistently on all projects
3. Develop and maintain standard contractor cost estimating requirements, in consultation with the Central Project Contracting and Procurement Manager, to be included in JM project tender requests and execution contracts
4. Develop and maintain a database of historic JM project costs and cost metrics
5. Oversee the provision of direct project cost estimating support to site-based projects by the Cost Engineer (site-based projects), reporting to the Global Project Cost Engineering Manager
6. Provide cost estimating subject matter expertise and support to Project Sponsors to develop early cost estimates in the Idea stage, in partnership with the Major Projects Initiation and Development Director, Business Engineering Directors and Business Capex Managers (according to the size/complexity of the project)
7. Provide independent cost engineering advice to JM decisions makers as required, to ensure business decision makers understand the cost risk and probable ranges associated with cost estimates presented at gates
8. Supporting project assurance through independent quality review of cost estimates, basis of cost estimates, project cost control plans and other cost engineering deliverables presented at gates
9. Conduct independent quantitative validation of project cost estimates, using metrics drawn from a database of historic JM project costs and public sources
Key skills/qualifications that will help you succeed in this role:
10. Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or related field of equivalent experience (advanced degree preferred), together with certification in Project Management.
11. Proven knowledge and experience in large capital projects and portfolios within highly regulated and high hazard industries.
12. Extensive experience of dealing with demanding business scenarios cross-culturally and across multiple geographies.
13. Demonstratable experience in driving organisational transformation impacting direct areas of accountability and having wide business impact, combined with having previously worked in a similar role.
14. Extensive experience in contracting strategy and administration, and in practically managing major contractors and contract issues through engineering, procurement, construction and handover.
15. Deep commercial acumen combined with extensive experience of partnering with and managing third parties strategically, contractually and in directing and managing performance.
16. Ability to lead complex change and simultaneously manage and influence multiple stakeholders, competing demands and complex business, technical or regulatory scenarios.
17. Delivery focused & a self-starter, having a track record of achieving challenging goals within business-critical timescales while working under pressure.
18. Courage to question or challenge issues and collaborate with stakeholders to drive towards resolution.
19. Able to translate complex technical concepts to non-technical, senior level audiences.
20. Ability to work outside the immediate team silo and build partnerships with the wider organisation.
21. Strong verbal and written communication skills; ability to communicate with all levels; capacity to produce clear, concise papers to a high standard.
Even if you only match some of the skills, we’d love to hear from you to discuss further!
What we offer:
We make sure salaries are fair, competitive and aligned to individual roles, experience and responsibilities. We are also supportive of hybrid and flexible working and where applicable, offer life, medical and other benefits that support our employees’ financial and physical wellbeing, such as:
22. Retirement savings
23. Share plans
24. Saving accounts
25. House saving funds
26. Life and disability insurance
27. Commuter allowances and loans
28. Medical plans / health assessments
29. Fitness discounts
Ready to make a meaningful impact on your career and the environment? Join us and help shape a sustainable future while advancing your career!
At JM, inclusivity is central to our values. We create an environment where everyone can thrive, embracing diverse perspectives to tackle challenges and ensure all colleagues feel valued and connected.
For any queries or accessibility requirements, please contact We will work with you to make suitable adjustments at any stage of the recruitment process. All conversations are confidential, and your feedback is welcome to help us provide an accessible and positive recruitment experience.
Closing date for applications: This job advertisement will be posted for a minimum of 2 weeks, early application is advised.
To submit your application, please click the "Apply" button online.