At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead cost control and budgeting for large-scale projects in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join GSK, a global leader in pharmaceuticals with a commitment to innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global projects while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree and 8+ years in cost controlling, preferably in pharma.
- Other info: Flexible work options and a supportive team atmosphere.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Location: USA – Pennsylvania – King of Prussia, Belgium – Wavre, Field Worker – SWE, France – Evreux, UK – London – New Oxford Street, UK – North Ayrshire – Irvine, USA – Pennsylvania – Marietta.
Posted: Dec 19 2025.
Role Overview
Lead design, implementation, and oversight of cost control and budgeting frameworks across large-scale capital project portfolios.
Responsibilities
- Develop and consolidate budgets for all GCP initiatives.
- Ensure alignment of project budgets with corporate financial objectives and governance standards.
- Manage operational expenditure budgets related to GCP activities.
- Track and report O performance.
- Implement cost control systems and processes for global projects.
- Prepare monthly forecasts, variance analysis, and financial reports.
- Create cost control tools, procedures, and documentation.
- Lead creation of initial cost estimates and detailed WBS breakdowns.
- Track actuals versus budget, drive accruals and forecast updates.
- Maintain cost risk registers and manage change requests.
- Collaborate with project managers, finance, procurement, regions.
- Present cost performance updates to senior leadership.
Tools & Systems
- Cost control & forecasting software (SAP, Oracle).
- Advanced Excel (pivot tables, macros, data modeling).
- ERP, Procurement systems (Ariba, Coupa).
Qualifications
Basic
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Engineering, Project Management or related field.
- 8+ years of experience in Cost Controlling, at least 3 years in a leadership role within the pharmaceutical/life sciences industry or similar industries.
- Experience as Finance controller or Business Controller for budgeting and OPEX tracking.
- Experience in cost control & forecasting software.
- Advanced Excel proficiency.
- Senior stakeholder management and project reporting experience.
Preferred
- MSc or other Chartered / Professional Qualification in a relevant discipline.
- Good pharma background or capital project experience.
- Solid knowledge of GSK project process, user requirement management, quality and compliance, site project completion and pre-start processes.
- Familiar with GCP Project Management Framework, engineering standards, compliance and quality management systems.
- PMP, CCP, PMI-SP, Lean Six Sigma or similar credentials.
Equal Opportunity Employer
GSK is an Equal Opportunity Employer. This ensures that all qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military service or any basis prohibited under federal, state or local law.
Adjustments
Should you require any adjustments to demonstrate your strengths and capabilities contact us at HR.AmericasSC-CS@gsk.com where you can also request a call.
Cost & Budget Lead employer: Gsk
Contact Detail:
Gsk Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cost & Budget Lead
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join online forums, or even hit up LinkedIn. The more folks you know, the better your chances of landing that Cost & Budget Lead role.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience with cost control systems and advanced Excel. Share specific examples of how you've managed budgets and improved financial performance in past roles.
✨Tailor Your Approach
Every company is different, so do your homework! Understand GSK's values and how they align with your experience. Tailor your conversations to show how you can contribute to their goals in cost management and project oversight.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don't forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our team at GSK.
We think you need these skills to ace Cost & Budget Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Cost & Budget Lead role. Highlight your experience in cost control and budgeting frameworks, especially in the pharmaceutical or life sciences industry. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your leadership in cost controlling and how you've successfully managed budgets in the past. We love a good story!
Show Off Your Skills: Don’t forget to mention your proficiency in tools like SAP, Oracle, and advanced Excel. If you’ve got any certifications like PMP or Lean Six Sigma, make sure they’re front and centre. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to keep track of your application status. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gsk
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Cost & Budget Lead, you'll need to be on top of your financial game. Brush up on key metrics and figures related to cost control and budgeting frameworks. Be ready to discuss how you've managed budgets in the past and how you can align them with corporate objectives.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Tools
Make sure you're comfortable with the cost control and forecasting software mentioned in the job description, like SAP and Oracle. If you have experience with advanced Excel features, such as pivot tables and macros, be prepared to showcase that knowledge during the interview.
✨Showcase Leadership Experience
Since this role requires at least 3 years in a leadership position, think of specific examples where you've led teams or projects. Highlight your experience in stakeholder management and how you've successfully communicated financial performance updates to senior leadership.
✨Understand the Industry
Having a solid background in the pharmaceutical or life sciences industry is crucial. Research GSK's project processes and compliance standards. Be ready to discuss how your previous experiences align with their expectations and how you can contribute to their goals.