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- Tasks: Lead major construction projects and oversee project management and cost functions.
- Company: A leading public sector organisation with a focus on impactful projects.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, potential for permanent role, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace committed to supporting all applicants.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact in the public sector while managing complex projects.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in construction and strong stakeholder engagement skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
A leading public sector organisation is seeking a Head of Projects & Cost to join on an initial contract basis, with the potential for a permanent role. This is a critical senior leadership position, responsible for overseeing the delivery of a major portfolio of construction and capital projects, while leading the Project Management Office (PMO) and cost management functions across a complex, high-profile estate.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the delivery of major construction, refurbishment and capital maintenance programmes, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to a high standard.
- Provide strategic oversight of the Project Management Office (PMO), embedding governance, controls, and best practice across the project portfolio.
- Oversee cost estimation and financial planning, ensuring accurate forecasting, strong cost control, and value engineering.
- Lead multi-year capital planning aligned to wider organisational priorities.
The ideal candidate will have:
- Significant senior leadership experience in construction project delivery, cost management, or programme management.
- A proven track record delivering large-scale capital programmes and complex property projects.
- Strong experience leading PMO functions, governance frameworks, and programme controls.
- Deep expertise in cost estimation, financial management, and commercial decision-making.
- Experience managing multidisciplinary teams and external consultants across full property lifecycles.
- Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to influence at senior leadership and board level.
- A relevant degree and professional accreditation (e.g. RICS, CIOB or equivalent).
- A collaborative, visible leadership style with excellent communication and influencing ability.
If you're a senior construction or estates leader who thrives on delivering complex programmes and driving value through strong cost and governance control, this is an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
Must be able to pass SC Level security clearance vetting.
We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive recruitment process. We actively seek talented individuals from all backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences.
Reasonable Adjustments:
Respect and equality are core values to us. We are proud of the diverse and inclusive community we have built, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and perspectives. Our success is driven by our people, united by the spirit of partnership to deliver the best resourcing solutions for our clients. If you need any help or adjustments during the recruitment process for any reason, please let us know when you apply or talk to the recruiters directly so we can support you.
Head of Projects & Cost in Glasgow employer: Sanderson Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Sanderson Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Projects & Cost in Glasgow
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the construction and project management 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 organisation thoroughly. Understand their projects, values, and challenges. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in making an impact in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've led teams through complex projects. Highlight your collaborative approach and how you’ve influenced stakeholders at all levels.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for talented individuals who can bring their expertise to our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Projects & Cost in Glasgow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the key responsibilities and skills mentioned in the job description. Highlight your experience in construction project delivery and cost management to show us you’re the right fit for this senior leadership role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you’re passionate about this position. Share specific examples of how you've led successful projects and managed costs effectively, as this will help us see your potential impact on our organisation.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: Since this role requires a collaborative and visible leadership style, make sure to include examples of how you've engaged with stakeholders and influenced decision-making at senior levels. We want to see how you can lead our PMO and drive value.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. This ensures your application is processed smoothly and allows us to get to know you better. Plus, it’s the best way to stay updated on your application status!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sanderson Recruitment
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the major construction and capital projects you've worked on. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you delivered them on time and within budget, as this will showcase your expertise in project delivery.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Oversight
Prepare to talk about your experience with Project Management Offices (PMOs) and how you've embedded governance and best practices in previous roles. Highlight any frameworks you've implemented that improved project outcomes, as this will resonate well with the organisation's needs.
✨Showcase Your Financial Acumen
Since cost management is a key part of this role, be prepared to discuss your approach to cost estimation and financial planning. Bring examples of how you've achieved strong cost control and value engineering in past projects to demonstrate your capability.
✨Engage with Stakeholders Effectively
Think about your experiences engaging with senior leadership and board members. Prepare anecdotes that illustrate your influencing skills and collaborative leadership style, as these are crucial for managing multidisciplinary teams and external consultants.