Associate Cost Manager – Hyperscale Data Centre
Location: Cardiff, UK
Salary: Up to £115,000 + benefits
Sector: Mission-Critical / Hyperscale Data Centres
A leading international consultancy, renowned for delivering some of the world’s most complex and technically demanding construction programmes, is seeking an exceptional Associate Cost Manager to join its expanding UK team.
This is a career-defining opportunity to lead cost management on a major hyperscale data centre project - one of the fastest-growing and most strategically significant sectors in the built environment. The successful candidate will work alongside a high-performing, multidisciplinary team that values transparency, accountability, and ambition.
The Opportunity
As Associate Cost Manager, you will take ownership of pre-and post-contract commercial activities, working with a blue-chip client in a high-growth sector. You’ll play a key role in shaping project strategy, supporting cost certainty, and ensuring commercial outcomes exceed expectations. This is not a back-office role - it's a high-profile, client-facing position with direct influence on programme performance.
You will also play a central leadership role in mentoring rising talent, strengthening team capability, and contributing to broader business development initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Lead the development of robust cost plans, estimates, and procurement strategies
Oversee valuations, cost reporting, change control, and contract administration
Support the settlement of claims and final accounts with full transparency
Ensure commercial risk is effectively managed throughout the project lifecycle
Act as a key client interface, offering trusted advice and strategic insight
Mentor junior team members and contribute to a high-performance team culture
Engage in business development and relationship growth with key clients
What We're Looking For
Proven experience delivering cost consultancy on large-scale construction programmes
Expertise in both pre-and post-contract stages, ideally on mission-critical or complex infrastructure projects
Strong commercial and contractual understanding with a practical mindset
Chartered status (MRICS or equivalent), or on the pathway to completion
Exceptional communication skills and the ability to inspire confidence in clients
A collaborative leadership style with a genuine passion for developing people
Strategic thinking, market awareness, and a desire to influence at a senior level
Why This Role?
£115,000 base salary + benefits + long-term growth potential
Work on one of the most technically advanced projects in the UK pipeline
Fast-track route to Director-level leadership for the right candidate
High-impact role with direct client engagement and business influence
Join a progressive, forward-thinking environment where initiative is rewarded and leadership is nurtured