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- Tasks: Manage project budgets, monitor costs, and provide insights throughout the project lifecycle.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on optimising costs in major infrastructure projects.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working options and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of impactful projects while developing your skills in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in project management methodologies and cost management systems is essential.
- Other info: This role offers a chance to lead and innovate in cost estimation methods.
Duration: 6 months +
Location: Reading, Winnersh Hybrid Working
Responsibilities:
- Developing and managing project budgets and forecasts, monitoring costs and expenses, highlighting variances and challenging discrepancies to ensure budgets stay within contractual constraints.
- Implementing cost control measures to aid the optimization of costs profiling without compromising both the quality and schedules across the portfolio.
- Using cost databases, historical data, and trend analysis to review and intercept cost information for effective decision-making by senior leaders.
- Working in collaboration with Project teams to provide cost-related insights and support throughout the project lifecycle.
- Seeking opportunities to further improve cost estimation methods, streamline processes, and enhance efficiencies in cost management.
- Monitoring and clearing of internal business issues – DSO, Aged Debt, delayed invoicing, forecast accuracy, and application for payment peer reviews.
- Effectively communicating cost-related information and insights to diverse stakeholders, including presenting findings and sharing recommendations.
- Reviewing Team Margin Analysis reports and attending Project Reviews as required.
- Deputising for the Cost Management lead where required.
Essential Qualifications & Experience:
- Significant knowledge or qualification in a recognised programme/project management methodology, e.g., MSP, Prince, APM, and experience of NEC4 Contract.
- Demonstrable experience of working in a major/complex infrastructure project and working in a matrix organisation.
- Team-oriented leader with the ability to work closely with peers; delegate, motivate, and empower individuals and teams.
- Earned Value Management (EVM).
- Experience across all stages of the project life cycle.
- Substantial experience of planning services in medium to large sized projects within the construction industry (£1m – £100m).
- Capable of helping to forge and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
- Ability to develop trust in people and assist others as required with strong communication skills, including writing reports & presenting.
- Experience of working within NEC Projects.
- Experienced with cost management systems such as Oracle or equivalent.
- Good knowledge of Microsoft Office, in particular; Excel, Word, and Outlook.
- HNC or equivalent qualification in an engineering/construction/project management related discipline.
Sector: Commercial, Admin & Office Support
Lead/Cost Analyst employer: First Recruitment Group
Contact Detail:
First Recruitment Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead/Cost Analyst
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with NEC4 Contracts and Earned Value Management (EVM) principles. Understanding these frameworks will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role and its requirements.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the construction and project management sectors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who may provide insights or even referrals for the Lead/Cost Analyst position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've implemented cost control measures in past projects. Highlighting your experience with budget management and cost optimisation will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Brush up on your presentation skills, as you'll need to effectively communicate cost-related insights to diverse stakeholders. Practising how to present complex data clearly can make a significant difference during interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead/Cost Analyst
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in cost management and project budgeting. Emphasise your familiarity with NEC4 Contracts and any specific methodologies like MSP or Prince that are mentioned in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, address how your skills align with the responsibilities of the Lead/Cost Analyst role. Mention your experience with Earned Value Management (EVM) and your ability to communicate effectively with stakeholders.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When detailing your work history, focus on your experience in major infrastructure projects. Highlight specific examples where you implemented cost control measures or improved cost estimation methods.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any errors or inconsistencies. Ensure that your writing is clear and professional, as strong communication skills are essential for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at First Recruitment Group
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Lead/Cost Analyst, you'll be expected to manage budgets and forecasts. Brush up on your financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed costs in previous projects. Be prepared to provide specific examples of how you identified discrepancies and implemented cost control measures.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Project Methodologies
Since the role requires knowledge of project management methodologies like MSP or Prince, make sure you understand these frameworks well. Be ready to explain how you've applied them in past roles, especially in complex infrastructure projects.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Effective communication is key in this role. Prepare to discuss how you've communicated cost-related insights to diverse stakeholders. Consider sharing examples of presentations or reports you've created that influenced decision-making.
✨Demonstrate Continuous Improvement Mindset
The company values a culture of continuous improvement. Think of instances where you've sought to enhance processes or improve cost estimation methods. Be ready to share your ideas on how you can contribute to this culture in the new role.
