Senior Cost Manager

We are currently seeking an experienced Senior Cost Manager to join our dynamic award-winning team. Our client is delivering one of the most complex and high-profile infrastructure programmes in the UK today. Backed by UK Government and key industry stakeholders, the organisation is entering a pivotal phase of development: securing funding, finalising strategic partnerships across the supply chain, and laying the regulatory groundwork to advance into full-scale construction.

As a Senior Cost Manager, you’ll be at the heart of a nationally significant transport programme that will reshape connectivity across the UK. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a landmark infrastructure project from the inside out—driving value, ensuring commercial rigour, and helping deliver one of the most ambitious rail initiatives in British history.

About us: CMR is an award-winning project controls consultancy that is first and foremost a team of people, passionate about the construction industry and changing the way project controls is provided. Our approach and culture have been recognised globally, with CMR named Global Project Controls Small Business of the Year 2025 (Project Controls Expo UK Awards) and one of the UK’s Best Workplaces in 2026 (Great Place to Work).

Our Purpose (Why we exist): Inspiring new ways to help shape our construction industry.

Our Ambition (What we want to achieve): Re-imagine project controls through a digital lens, being the obvious choice for clients and the place to grow together with intention.

What’s in it for you? At CMR you will have the opportunity to professionally develop like nowhere you have worked before. If you demonstrate the capability, our merit-based system will enable you to develop fast. We use our in-house capability matrix to transparently track your progression and highlight development areas. Join our small, dynamic team where every member has the chance to make a significant impact, shaping the future direction of our company and making a real difference. We believe in rewarding our team for their achievements, celebrating our successes but equally helping each other when things are tough.

Role Focus:

• Team Leadership & Collaboration
• Support the Cost Lead in driving integrated cost control practices across the Works Programme.
• Coach and guide team members within the Cost Discipline.
• Collaborate with other Project Controls disciplines and support functions to ensure aligned project delivery.

Cost Management & Reporting

• Maintain accurate cost forecasts and actuals within the financial control system (EcoSys).
• Oversee monthly cost reporting cycles including Actual Cost of Work Performed (ACWP), Earned Value Analysis, and Estimates at Completion (EAC).
• Ensure all changes are reflected accurately within budgets and forecasts.
• Review and integrate estimates from Tier 1 contractors and suppliers.

Analysis & Insight

• Conduct cost performance analysis and identify areas of risk or opportunity.
• Ensure earned value techniques are correctly implemented across the programme.
• Support the development and optimisation of cost reporting systems.

Essential

• Demonstrated leadership capability in cost or commercial functions.
• Deep understanding of cost management methodologies and earned value analysis.
• Strong grasp of engineering, procurement, and construction processes.
• High-level analytical and numerical ability with attention to detail.
• Experience with cost management tools such as EcoSys.
• Familiarity with NEC or FIDIC contract frameworks.
• Commercially astute with excellent interpersonal skills.

Desirable

• Familiarity with scheduling (Primavera P6) and risk tools (ARM).
• Experience working on complex major infrastructure projects.
• Ability to communicate and present financial insights to senior stakeholders.
• Previous experience in the Rail or infrastructure sector.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Construction, Accounting or related discipline (or equivalent project experience).
• Chartered or equivalent professional status preferred.
• Proven track record in cost management within a major project environment.

At CMR we have a strong culture driven by our 9 Core Principles. We look to build a community of people that share our values and ambitions. We’re proud that 96% of our team say CMR is a “Great Place to Work” a reflection of our supportive culture, focus on people, and drive to do things differently.

Requirements and Location:

• Full right to work in the UK
• 3 Days Office / 2 days hybrid

Salary & Benefits

• 25 days holiday (plus Bank Holidays)
• Comprehensive Private Healthcare (Inc Dentist and Optician)
• Life Assurance (x4 Salary)
• Pension: employer's contribution of 4%
• Company and personal performance-based bonus
• Salary Sacrifice Scheme
• Long Service Leave
• Training and professional development
• Regular social events
• Perkbox – employee experience platform

Next Steps

To apply to our vacancy please submit a copy of your CV for consideration. We look forward to hearing from you! CMR welcomes and encourages diversity in our workforce. CMR is Disability Confident Committed and an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin or disability or any other protected characteristics. We aim to create a culture where everyone can be themselves and is valued for their strengths and unique perspectives.