Strategic Cost Lead for Major Nuclear Project in Suffolk

The Civil Works Alliance (CWA) are seeking an accomplished Project Controls Cost Management Lead to play a critical part in delivering Sizewell C—the UK’s next-generation nuclear power station. As the second of a new wave of nuclear projects, Sizewell C is both high-profile and complex, and will provide 3.2 gigawatts of low-carbon power for around 6 million homes over the next 60 years.

In this high-impact leadership role, you will ensure the integrity, transparency, and effectiveness of cost management across the entire civils programme, while recognising and influencing programme decisions that shape the wider project. As a key member of our Project Management Office, you’ll collaborate with world-class engineering, commercial, and project controls teams to provide clarity, innovation, and reliability in all areas of cost performance.

In This Role, You Will:

• Consult on the development of estimates and support the establishment of robust cost baselines for Target Outturn Cost (TOC) development.
• Align and maintain cost baselines with the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), project schedule, and risk register.
• Quantify cost impacts arising from scope changes, design modifications, and evolving risks, integrating these with the project’s overall risk management framework.
• Monitor contractor and subcontractor cost performance, validate progress claims, and analyse variances against budget and earned value.
• Implement and operate advanced cost control systems, developing dynamic cost forecasts, trend analyses, and scenario modelling to drive robust project delivery.
• Define and monitor cost KPIs including Cost Performance Index (CPI) and Estimate at Completion (EAC), benchmarking performance against industry standards and similar nuclear projects.
• Lead on clear, timely and accurate cost reporting for all project stakeholders, regulators, and funding bodies.
• Champion digital engineering and integrated project controls, leveraging tools such as Oracle Primavera Unifier to track and report change, develop dashboards, and drive automation.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement in cost management practices, engaging proactively with IT, Digital, and IM teams to ensure seamless integration with broader business systems.
• Take a leadership role in health, safety, and nuclear safety, empowering teams and influencing working practices to maintain industry-leading standards.
• Engage with a diverse stakeholder network, anticipating needs, driving alignment, and acting as a trusted advisor to both client and alliance partners.
• Motivate and develop your team, driving high levels of engagement, capability, and performance across the CWA.

To Be Successful, You Will Need:

• At least 10 years’ experience in cost management on major infrastructure or energy projects, including 3 years in nuclear or highly regulated environments.
• A strong track record of cost estimation, cost control, and cost forecasting using leading industry tools (e.g. Ares Prism, EcoSys, SAP, Primavera).
• Outstanding analytical, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to convey complex information with clarity and impact.
• Proven ability to collaborate across disciplines and champion digital innovation.
• A results-driven, proactive approach and the ability to manage competing priorities and adapt positively to change.

If you see yourself influencing a national infrastructure legacy and delivering performance that will set new standards for the UK’s energy future, please reach out to us with your details.