At a Glance
- Tasks: Oversee financial monitoring and cost management for international construction projects.
- Company: Join Legendre, a dynamic player in the construction industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy private medical insurance, 30 days annual leave, and a pension scheme.
- Other info: Work in a vibrant London office with opportunities for travel and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on exciting international projects while developing your finance skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in cost control or financial management, ideally in construction.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you a detail‐driven finance professional looking to bring your expertise to international construction projects? We are seeking a highly proactive and autonomous Cost Controller to oversee financial monitoring and cost management across multiple construction projects in the UK, Channel Islands (Jersey & Guernsey) and Switzerland. This standalone role will work closely with project leads and senior management to drive financial accountability, compliance and performance. You will also collaborate with support functions including accounting and HR to ensure seamless financial operations and reporting. The ideal candidate will be hands‐on, entrepreneurial and confident working across international jurisdictions. The role is based in London but requires travel to France, the Channel Islands and Switzerland, with a few weeks based in Rennes, France (HQ).
Responsibilities
- Track and monitor project costs throughout all phases of the project lifecycle, working closely with Project Leads.
- Prepare and maintain comprehensive cost control files, reports, and financial spreadsheets.
- Support Project Managers and Directors in analysing cost variances and identifying corrective actions.
- Monitor client and subcontractor payments to ensure deadlines are met.
- Oversee post‐completion financial reconciliation and head office cost allocations.
- Assist in the preparation of overhead, project, and company budgets.
- Conduct monthly reviews of financial forecasts, analysing trends and variances.
- Prepare and maintain the monthly Business Unit Dashboard.
- Ensure accurate and timely cost records to support effective decision‐making.
- Oversee performance bond tracking (setup and release), project insurance, and related documentation.
- Ensure adherence to company financial policies, procedures, and internal controls.
- Represent the international business unit at Group level meetings.
- Adapt financial processes to meet local legal and business requirements.
- Ensure accurate and up‐to‐date data entry within financial software systems.
- Act as the main point of contact for expense software queries and user support.
- Gather feedback and contribute to continuous improvement of financial tools and systems.
- Monitor key cash flow indicators and proactively support improvement initiatives.
- Liaise closely with the international accounting team to ensure alignment, accuracy, and compliance.
Qualifications
- You have proven experience in cost control or financial management, ideally within the construction or engineering industry.
- Strong understanding of budgeting, forecasting and cost‐monitoring principles.
- Excellent analytical and numerical skills, with the ability to interpret and explain complex data clearly.
- Highly skilled communicator, able to collaborate effectively with Project Leads, Senior Management and cross‐functional teams.
- Fluency in English and French (advanced level) is required.
- Strong attention to detail, with a proactive and solutions‐driven approach.
- Organised, results‐oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities under pressure.
- A degree in Finance or a related field.
- Experience with financial or ERP software systems is an advantage.
Future Working Environment
The London head office is based near Chancery Lane tube station. This lively neighbourhood gives you the opportunity to fully enjoy the London experience.
Benefits
- Private Medical Insurance & Life Insurance
- Pension scheme
- 30 days Annual Leave + Bank Holiday
- Profit Shared Schemes
- Personalised Induction Plan (1:1 meetings with your colleagues, an induction day in France etc.)
- Training & Mentoring
- The opportunity to develop and progress in a varied and agile construction business
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Volunteering activities, Group travels and more
Next Steps
Your profile is selected. The HR team will contact you to discuss your experience, the role and the company. You might be invited to an interview with HR and Julien Lemetayer. When possible, you will meet your future colleagues for informal chats.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Legendre UK is committed to being a place where everyone has a voice and feels they belong. We welcome applications from people from all backgrounds and communities. Making Legendre UK a diverse and inclusive place to work is a huge priority for us.
Cost Controller in London employer: Legendre
Legendre UK is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture in the heart of Central London, where you can make a significant impact on prestigious construction projects. With a strong focus on employee growth, we provide comprehensive training and mentoring, alongside generous benefits such as private medical insurance, a pension scheme, and 30 days of annual leave. Join our collaborative team and enjoy unique opportunities for personal development while contributing to high-quality office refurbishments in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cost Controller in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the construction and finance sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Familiarise yourself with their financial practices and recent developments. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a Cost Controller, you'll need to explain complex data clearly. Try mock interviews with friends or use online resources to refine your pitch and ensure you come across as confident and articulate.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Cost Controller in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Cost Controller role. Highlight your experience in cost control and financial management, especially in construction or engineering. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
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 past achievements in cost monitoring and budgeting that align with our needs.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role requires excellent analytical abilities, make sure to mention any relevant tools or software you've used. We love seeing how you interpret complex data and make informed decisions!
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. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Legendre
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Cost Controller, you'll need to demonstrate your strong analytical skills. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed costs in previous roles. Prepare examples that showcase your ability to track and monitor project costs effectively.
✨Understand the Role
Familiarise yourself with the specific responsibilities outlined in the job description. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with tasks like budgeting, forecasting, and compliance. Showing that you understand the nuances of the role will impress the interviewers.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since this role involves collaboration with various teams, practice articulating complex financial data in a clear and concise manner. Think about how you can explain your past experiences in a way that highlights your communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally.
✨Show Your Proactivity
The ideal candidate is described as proactive and solutions-driven. Prepare to share instances where you've taken initiative to improve processes or resolve issues. This will demonstrate your entrepreneurial spirit and readiness to contribute positively to the team.
