At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead projects in the utilities sector, managing costs and ensuring successful delivery.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking consultancy with a focus on growth and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, competitive salary, generous holidays, and wellness perks.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to social responsibility and personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the utilities sector while developing your career.
- Qualifications: Degree in Quantity Surveying or related field; chartered status preferred.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Application Deadline: 31 August 2026
Department: Cost Management
Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time
Location: London
Role Overview
We are seeking experienced Commercial Consultants to support and grow our Commercial Utility Consultancy team. The role will suit a commercially astute, client‑facing individual with deep knowledge of utility procurement, infrastructure cost modelling, and lifecycle commercial strategy. The role will involve shaping our market positioning, supporting major bids, and embedding commercial best practice across utility and energy programmes. The role demands high‑level strategic thinking, hands‑on leadership, and the ability to influence both client‑side and internally at RLB. This is a critical leadership role contributing to RLB’s ambitious growth within the utilities sector.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the successful delivery of projects within the Utilities sector.
- Pre and Post Contract Quantity Surveying.
- Strategic cost planning and management.
- Procurement and contract administration.
- Financial reporting and risk management.
- Stakeholder engagement and collaboration.
- Benchmarking and market intelligence.
- Systems and process improvement.
- Compliance and governance.
- Contribute to the financial performance of projects and the wider business, including revenue and profitability.
- Promote efficiency, effectiveness and best practice across projects and teams.
- Keep up to date with current thinking and best practice within the discipline.
- Work closely with clients, contractors and project teams to deliver projects successfully and on budget.
- Comply with established Commercial, Procurement, Contractual strategies.
- Carry out assigned duties efficiently and in accordance with processes and procedures.
Candidate Profile
Qualifications
- Degree qualified in Quantity Surveying or similar construction related technical discipline.
- Chartered / Professionally Qualified (MRICS or equivalent).
Experience
- Previously employed by a consultancy or client in a similar role.
- Experience of utilities packages essential.
Behaviours
- Recognised as a client focused, positive collaborator who shares knowledge freely and offers support to peers and seniors; a team player with strong willingness to learn.
- Demonstrates a positive and proactive approach to the role, committed to delivering customer service excellence with good commercial results.
RLB Employee Benefits
- Hybrid Working – working patterns to support work‑life balance, and competitive maternity and paternity packages.
- Well‑Rewarded – competitive salary and generous holiday entitlement, opportunity to purchase up to five extra days.
- Focus On Wellbeing – health and wellness options including gym membership and cycle to work schemes.
- Healthcare Packages – private healthcare insurance and medical support, including dental insurance and eyecare vouchers.
- Personal Development – continuous learning and development programme, including established APC and in‑house mentoring schemes.
- Additional Benefits – season ticket loan and professional membership subscriptions.
- Exceptional Exposure – opportunity to work on diverse projects across sectors and regions.
- Social Responsibility – team and social events, charity fundraising and volunteering activities.
Our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Commitment
We believe in building a diverse and inclusive environment where each person can be themselves, feel valued for their contribution and be challenged and supported to reach their full potential. We have a responsibility to support the communities in which we live and work, and that our workforce should reflect these communities and our clients. Our talent strategy should enable us to overcome bias in the construction industry by recruiting, retaining, developing, and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce. If you require any reasonable adjustments to support you during any stage of the application or interview process, please contact our recruitment team at recruitment@uk.rlb.com.
Senior Cost Manager - Utilities employer: Rider Levett Bucknall
RLB is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth, offering a hybrid working model that supports work-life balance alongside competitive salaries and generous holiday entitlements. With a strong focus on personal development through continuous learning programmes and mentoring schemes, employees are empowered to thrive in a collaborative and inclusive environment. The opportunity to work on diverse projects within the utilities sector in London further enhances the appeal of joining our dynamic team.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Cost Manager - Utilities
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that Senior Cost Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews by researching the company and its projects. We want to see you shine, so practice answering common questions and think about how your experience in utilities can add value to their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! Bring along examples of your previous work, especially those related to cost management and procurement in utilities. We love seeing tangible proof of your skills and how you’ve made an impact in past roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance at landing that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Cost Manager - Utilities
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Cost Manager role. Highlight your experience in utility procurement and cost management, and don’t forget to showcase any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with 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 our team. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your strategic thinking and client-facing skills. Remember, we love a good story that shows your passion for the utilities sector.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As this is a leadership role, make sure to highlight your hands-on leadership experience. Talk about how you've influenced teams or clients in past roles. We’re looking for someone who can drive results and promote best practices across projects.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the position and our company culture there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rider Levett Bucknall
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Senior Cost Manager, you’ll need to demonstrate your expertise in cost management. Brush up on key metrics and figures relevant to the utilities sector. Be prepared to discuss how you've successfully managed budgets and delivered projects on time and within financial constraints.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
This role requires high-level strategic thinking, so come ready with examples of how you've shaped market positioning or influenced project outcomes. Think about specific instances where your strategic decisions led to successful bids or improved processes.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Stakeholder engagement is crucial in this role. Prepare to discuss how you've collaborated with clients, contractors, and project teams in the past. Highlight your ability to build relationships and communicate effectively, as this will be key to your success.
✨Stay Current with Industry Trends
The utilities sector is always evolving, so show that you're on top of current trends and best practices. Bring insights into recent developments in utility procurement or lifecycle commercial strategy, and be ready to discuss how these could impact the role and the company.
