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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead cost strategy for ambitious infrastructure projects and manage a talented team.
- Company: Join Southern Water, transforming the water industry with innovative solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable solutions for communities while shaping your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in PMO cost management and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace committed to supporting your professional journey.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Major Projects PMO Cost Lead role at Southern Water.
Location: Falmer, hybrid working
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: 37 hours
Salary: to be discussed at screening stage
Are you ready to take charge of cost strategy for some of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in the region?
About the Role
Our Major Projects team is the backbone of delivering critical programmes that shape the future of our business and communities. As the PMO Cost Lead, you’ll set the strategic direction for cost management across a portfolio of high‑profile projects. This is your chance to lead a talented team, embed best practices, and ensure financial control and value optimisation throughout the project lifecycle.
What You Will Be Responsible For:
- Develop and implement a comprehensive cost management framework aligned to best practices.
- Oversee preparation, validation, and management of portfolio and project budgets, forecasts, and funding submissions.
- Provide expert oversight on Value of Work Done (VOWD) and Estimate to Complete (ETC) forecasts.
- Lead development of Cost Breakdown Structures (CBS) aligned to Work Breakdown Structures (WBS).
- Establish Earned Value Management (EVM) processes and support life cycle costing and value engineering.
- Build and mentor a high‑performing cost management team, fostering accuracy, accountability, and innovation.
Additional Requirements:
- Strong understanding of cost estimation methodologies, procurement processes, and financial controls.
- Proficiency in cost management software (e.g., CostX, EcoSys, PRISM, SAP, Excel).
- Familiarity with NEC contracts and regulatory reporting requirements.
Essential:
- Proven experience leading PMO cost management within large‑scale infrastructure or capital programmes.
- Strong leadership skills with a track record of managing and developing teams.
- Excellent analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.
- Strategic thinking with a focus on continuous improvement and value delivery.
Desirable:
- Degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Finance, or related field.
- Professional certifications such as AACE, AMP, or AcostE.
- Experience in Earned Value Management and cost assurance techniques.
Southern Water is at the forefront of transforming Britain’s water industry, investing significantly to enhance resilience, sustainability, and service excellence. With £7.8bn planned investment for 2025‑30, this is an unparalleled opportunity to join a business committed to delivering a generational shift in the way water services are managed. You will be joining at a time of significant change, working alongside a highly skilled leadership team with a clear vision for the future. We offer an environment where senior professionals can make a meaningful impact, influence major strategic decisions, and drive long‑term value creation.
We understand that great talent comes in many forms. If this role excites you and you share our commitment to delivering sustainable solutions for our communities, please apply—even if your experience doesn’t perfectly match every requirement. We’ll support your growth and development.
If this role isn’t quite what you’re looking for but are keen to be contacted about opportunities at Southern Water, you can register your details here: Introduce Yourself.
Our Commitment to Diversity:
We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. We do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or any other protected characteristic. If you need reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know.
Major Projects PMO Cost Lead in Brighton employer: Southern Water
Contact Detail:
Southern Water Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Major Projects PMO Cost Lead in Brighton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, attend relevant events, and don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on the hunt for a PMO Cost Lead role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Southern Water and their major projects. Understand their cost management strategies and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who’s genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your skills in cost estimation and team leadership can contribute to Southern Water’s ambitious projects. A confident and clear presentation of your abilities can make all the difference.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Southern Water. Let’s get you that interview!
We think you need these skills to ace Major Projects PMO Cost Lead in Brighton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the PMO Cost Lead role. Highlight your experience in cost management and leadership, and show how it aligns with the ambitious projects at Southern Water.
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to mention your proficiency in cost management software and your understanding of financial controls. We want to see how your skills can contribute to our strategic direction and value optimisation.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We’re looking for someone who shares our commitment to sustainability and innovation, so don’t hesitate to express your passion for these values.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to apply directly through our website. This way, we can easily track your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Southern Water
✨Know Your Cost Management Framework
Before the interview, brush up on your understanding of cost management frameworks. Be ready to discuss how you would develop and implement a comprehensive framework that aligns with best practices, as this is crucial for the PMO Cost Lead role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your leadership experience, especially in managing and developing teams. Southern Water values strong leadership, so be ready to share how you've fostered accuracy, accountability, and innovation in your previous roles.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Relevant Software
Make sure you're comfortable discussing cost management software like CostX, EcoSys, or SAP. If you have experience with these tools, be prepared to explain how you've used them to oversee budgets and forecasts effectively.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
Think about how you can convey your strategic thinking abilities during the interview. Prepare to discuss how you've approached continuous improvement and value delivery in past projects, as this aligns with the expectations for the PMO Cost Lead position.
