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- Tasks: Manage cost plans and ensure financial viability for exciting residential projects.
- Company: Leading London-based residential developer known for high-quality, design-led schemes.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and the chance to work on innovative developments.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact on London's skyline.
- Qualifications: Degree in Quantity Surveying or similar, with experience in residential development.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for professional development.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 ÂŁ per year.
A leading London-based residential developer delivering high-quality, design-led mixed-use and residential schemes across the capital. Projects range from large-scale regeneration developments to high-rise apartment schemes and premium residential buildings.
We are seeking an experienced Cost Planner to join the pre‑construction commercial team. This is a front‑end, developer‑side role focused on cost planning, viability and budget control from early feasibility through to pre‑construction. You will play a key role in ensuring schemes are financially robust and commercially viable before progressing to delivery.
Key Responsibilities- Prepare and manage detailed cost plans at all design stages (concept through to Stage 4).
- Support land appraisals and acquisition processes with cost advice and budget modelling.
- Provide accurate ÂŁ/sqft benchmarking and cost analysis across residential schemes.
- Review design proposals and advise on cost impact and value engineering opportunities.
- Work closely with Development, Technical, Planning and Commercial teams to ensure schemes remain within approved budgets.
- Assess risk, abnormal costs and infrastructure impacts.
- Support procurement strategy and contractor engagement during pre‑construction.
- Maintain cost databases and benchmarking information across projects.
- Degree qualified in Quantity Surveying or similar.
- Experience in residential development (high‑rise, RC frame, multi‑unit schemes preferred).
- Strong background in pre‑construction cost planning or estimating.
- Experience working for a developer, main contractor (pre‑construction), or PQS consultancy.
- Commercially astute with a strong understanding of viability and margin protection.
- Comfortable pricing incomplete designs and advising at early stages.
- Strong Excel and cost modelling capability.
- MRICS desirable but not essential.
Cost Planner in London employer: Deverell Smith Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
Deverell Smith Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cost Planner in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend events, and join relevant online groups. The more people you know in the residential development space, the better your chances of landing that Cost Planner role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your cost planning projects and successes. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, having tangible examples will set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get ready for interviews by rehearsing common questions related to cost planning and budget control. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to find and apply for the Cost Planner position. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and helps us keep track of your application.
We think you need these skills to ace Cost Planner in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Cost Planner role. Highlight your experience in residential development and pre-construction cost planning. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Showcase Relevant Experience: In your application, focus on your background in managing cost plans and working with design teams. Share specific examples of projects where you’ve made a financial impact. This helps us see your potential contribution!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your cover letter, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so make sure to express your enthusiasm for the role and why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Deverell Smith Recruitment Ltd
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Cost Planner, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in cost planning and budgeting. Brush up on your knowledge of ÂŁ/sqft benchmarking and be ready to discuss how you've managed detailed cost plans in previous roles. Prepare specific examples that showcase your ability to keep projects financially robust.
✨Understand the Project Lifecycle
Familiarise yourself with the stages of residential development from concept to delivery. Be prepared to talk about how you’ve supported land appraisals and acquisition processes in the past. Showing that you understand the entire lifecycle will impress the interviewers and highlight your comprehensive skill set.
✨Collaborate Like a Pro
This role requires working closely with various teams, so be ready to discuss your experience in cross-functional collaboration. Think of examples where you’ve worked with Development, Technical, Planning, and Commercial teams to ensure projects stay within budget. Highlighting your teamwork skills will show you’re a great fit for their culture.
✨Risk Management Savvy
Be prepared to discuss how you assess risks and manage abnormal costs. Interviewers will want to know how you handle potential pitfalls in projects. Share specific instances where you identified risks early and implemented strategies to mitigate them, showcasing your proactive approach to cost planning.