Senior Cost Manager – Health & Life Sciences Advisory
As a Senior Cost Manager you will support the delivery of projects across the health and life sciences sectors and be part of a dynamic team responsible for providing full cost management services from initial feasibility through to completion on complex refurbishments and new‑build schemes. You will deliver robust cost plans, support procurement and tendering, administer contracts, and ensure strong cost control throughout the project lifecycle. You will work closely with NHS Trusts, science clients, and design teams.
What we expect from you
- Experience in project delivery utilizing all common procurement strategies
- Ability to negotiate contract T&Cs for all NEC and JCT forms of contracts with contractors on behalf of clients and deliver the typical QS role for contracts from placement through to project completion
- Leading tender processes including production of Tender and Value for Money reports
- Assist in the cost management of projects through the entire project lifecycle
- Preparation of estimates, cost plans using the NRM-based approach
- Preparation of pricing schedules, tender and contract documentation
- Undertake monthly assessments for payment
- Construction phase cost management including attending site meetings, negotiating and agreeing variations with the contractor and preparing the monthly cost report to the client
- Produce cost reports and cashflows, presenting to stakeholders, and supporting the preparation of business cases for public funding approval
- Be familiar with the construction industry and work within a fast‑paced consultancy environment
- Actively engaged in value and risk management, having facilitated structured risk workshops and delivered value engineering proposals
- Manage junior team members in the delivery of projects to assist in their learning and development while delivering for the client
- Manage the delivery of projects within the QS scope of services and agreed fee amount; early identification and raising of potential changes and/or challenges to delivery internally with senior members of the team
What we will be looking for you to demonstrate
- Educated to degree level or equivalent in Quantity Surveying/ Commercial Management
- A Chartered Professional in surveying with either the RICS or CIOB or have sufficiently extensive experience to be able to attain chartership
- Demonstrable track record of successful outcomes and able to work under own initiative
- An understanding of typical traditional and design and build contract T&Cs and mechanisms commonly used in the UK
- Experience in managing two-stage procurement processes and successful delivery on behalf of the client at each stage
- Competence in project controls and financial management, maintaining accurate reporting across all project stages and ensuring compliance with client funding requirements and audit standards
- Strong communication, ability to perform client-facing duties and work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams
- Commercial awareness, a logic thinker, who works efficiently and accurately to high standards
Benefits
Work‑life balance: Our hybrid working policy offers the flexibility to work from home two days a week, while also providing opportunities to collaborate in our modern offices across the UK.
Inclusivity & Belonging: We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences and celebrate integrity and treat people with respect, supporting each other and embracing a culture of inclusion and belonging.
Health & Wellbeing: We are committed to supporting our people, giving you the tools to make improvements to your health and wellbeing through our Thrive programme, Virtual GP service, reasonable workplace adjustments, Gymflex scheme, and comprehensive menopause support package.
Flex your time: You can take one hour each day for personal activities with the flexibility to make up the time earlier or later that day. We also provide part‑time and flexible working arrangements, the option to purchase additional leave, and the ability to use your bank holiday entitlement to suit you.
Your development: We foster a supportive environment that invests in your growth through training, mentoring, or chartership.
Legal and EEO statement
Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria. Please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.
