Cost Management Lead

Cost Management Lead

Full-Time 55000 - 65000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
CWA

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead cost management for the groundbreaking Sizewell C energy project.
  • Company: Join the Civil Works Alliance, a collaborative team shaping the UK's energy future.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and flexible benefits.
  • Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with a focus on innovation and continuous improvement.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on clean energy while working on a landmark infrastructure project.
  • Qualifications: 10+ years in cost management, especially in nuclear or regulated environments.

The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.

Help Shape the UK’s Energy Future. Cost Management Lead Opportunity with the Civil Works Alliance (CWA), Supporting Sizewell C.

As part of the CWA (Civil Works Alliance), you will support the building of Sizewell C. Sizewell C will be a 3.2-gigawatt power station generating low-carbon electricity for around 6 million homes and will play a key role in our energy future, supplying reliable, clean electricity for at least 60 years. This role will be within the CWA Wide Section.

What will you do?

We are recruiting for a Project Controls Cost Management Lead to join the Civil Works Alliance (CWA), supporting the delivery of Sizewell C – a landmark 3.2-gigawatt power station that will supply low-carbon electricity to around 6 million UK homes. This is a career-defining opportunity to shape the future of clean energy, working on one of the UK’s most high-profile and complex infrastructure projects.

As Project Controls Cost Management Lead, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the successful delivery of the Civils Programme for Sizewell C. Reporting directly to the Head of Project Controls, you will be responsible for implementing and driving our cost management strategy across the alliance, supporting the Programme Management Office (PMO) and influencing project outcomes at every stage.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Leading cost estimating, cost baseline, cost control, forecasting, change and risk cost impact management, and cost reporting activities.
  • Establishing and maintaining rigorous cost baselines aligned with project schedules, risk registers, and work breakdown structures.
  • Quantifying and managing the cost impact of scope changes, design modifications, and emerging risks.
  • Integrating cost risk analysis with the wider project risk framework.
  • Monitoring contractor and subcontractor cost performance, validating claims and identifying variances.
  • Developing dynamic cost forecasts, scenario modelling, and benchmarking against industry standards.
  • Producing transparent, timely, and accurate cost reports for regulators, stakeholders, and funding bodies.
  • Implementing robust cost control systems and supporting monthly reviews and project control boards.
  • Ensuring compliance with nuclear industry reporting standards and financial governance protocols.
  • Championing the use of digital tools and automation in cost management, including Oracle Primavera Unifier and BIM integration.
  • Leading and empowering teams to deliver on HSE and Nuclear Safety agendas, and promoting a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and digital engineering.
  • Building and maintaining effective relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, acting as a trusted advisor to the client and the wider project team.
  • Inspiring and developing team members, ensuring high levels of motivation, engagement, and alignment across the alliance.

This is a unique opportunity to be part of a diverse and inclusive leadership team, delivering a project that will have a lasting positive impact on the UK’s energy future. If you are ready to bring your expertise to a role that truly matters, I invite you to click the following link to apply.

What are we looking for?

  • At least 10 years’ experience in cost management on major infrastructure or energy projects, including a minimum of 3 years within nuclear or highly regulated environments.
  • Proficiency in cost control tools such as Ares Prism, EcoSys, SAP, and Primavera.
  • Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
  • A collaborative, results-driven approach with a passion for operational excellence and continuous improvement.
  • Experience of leading and motivating teams within complex, multi-stakeholder project environments.

What we will offer you?

The CWA is a single delivery organisation made up of the client (Sizewell C) and three parent companies - Balfour Beatty, Bouygues and Laing O'Rourke - which offer industry leading packages including market leading salaries, generous annual leave entitlements, pension scheme and other flexible benefits.

About Us

The CWA celebrates the creativity and innovation that comes from a diverse workforce, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds — especially those from under‑represented communities. Our project is built on five core values: Humility, Positivity, Respect, Solidarity, and Clarity.

By joining us, you’ll be encouraged to bring your whole self to work, speak up, and share your ideas. We encourage applications from all suitably qualified candidates, regardless of gender, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity.

We are committed to protecting your privacy. If you decide to apply, please avoid including sensitive personal data in your CV.

Cost Management Lead employer: CWA

Joining the Civil Works Alliance (CWA) as a Cost Management Lead offers an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the UK's energy future through the landmark Sizewell C project. With a strong focus on employee growth, a collaborative work culture, and industry-leading benefits including competitive salaries and flexible working arrangements, CWA fosters an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued. This role not only allows you to make a meaningful impact on clean energy but also empowers you to develop your skills in a supportive and innovative setting.

CWA

Contact Details:

CWA Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Cost Management Lead

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.

Tip Number 2

Prepare for interviews by researching the company and understanding their projects, especially Sizewell C. Show them you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for clean energy and how your skills align with their goals.

Tip Number 3

Practice your responses to common interview questions, but keep it natural. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, especially when discussing your experience in cost management.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Civil Works Alliance and contributing to the future of energy in the UK.

We think you need these skills to ace Cost Management Lead

Cost Management
Cost Estimating
Cost Control
Forecasting
Change Management
Risk Management
Cost Reporting

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Cost Management Lead role. Highlight your experience in cost management on major infrastructure projects, especially in nuclear or regulated environments.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you’re passionate about shaping the UK’s energy future. Share specific examples of how you've led teams and managed costs effectively in previous roles.

Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role requires strong analytical abilities, be sure to mention any relevant tools you’ve used, like Ares Prism or SAP. Give us examples of how you’ve used these tools to drive project success.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get to know you better!

How to prepare for a job interview at CWA

Know Your Cost Management Tools

Familiarise yourself with cost control tools like Ares Prism, EcoSys, SAP, and Primavera. Be ready to discuss how you've used these tools in past projects, as this will show your technical expertise and readiness for the role.

Demonstrate Stakeholder Engagement Skills

Prepare examples of how you've successfully engaged with diverse stakeholders in previous roles. Highlight your communication strategies and how you’ve built effective relationships, as this is crucial for the Project Controls Cost Management Lead position.

Showcase Your Leadership Experience

Think of specific instances where you've led teams in complex project environments. Be prepared to discuss your approach to motivating team members and driving results, as leadership is a key aspect of this role.

Align with Company Values

Research the core values of the Civil Works Alliance: Humility, Positivity, Respect, Solidarity, and Clarity. Prepare to share how your personal values align with theirs, as cultural fit is just as important as skills and experience.