Senior Cost Intelligence Manager / Commercial Quantity Surveyor

Senior Cost Intelligence Manager / Commercial Quantity Surveyor
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Key Purpose
The Senior Cost Intelligence Manager is responsible for establishing and leading a cost intelligence function within the organisation. This role will drive cost benchmarking, estimating, and efficiency analysis, identifying opportunities for improvement and challenging supply chain costs. The position involves advising Directors and the Investment Committee on cost efficiency strategies and influencing strategic planning, particularly for regulatory submissions such as PR24 and PR29.
The role will also oversee the transition from an outsourced cost intelligence service to an in-house model over a three-year period, achieving a 70/30 in-house/out-sourced ratio. This includes developing team requirements, securing business case approval, recruiting and mobilising the team, and managing contractor exit. In business-as-usual operations, the role will manage a cost library, access third-party benchmarking data, and provide cost estimates for projects and programmes to support Strategic Asset Planning while challenging delivery costs to drive lifecycle efficiency.
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Accountabilities & Estimated Time Allocation
* Cost Estimating & Benchmarking Service (60%)
o Deliver cost estimating and benchmarking services to Strategic Asset Management and Delivery Teams.
o Lead cost assurance and challenge supply chain costs to drive efficiencies in capital programme delivery.
o Engage with suppliers and internal teams to implement cost-saving measures.
o Develop cost modelling and estimating methodologies for Price Reviews (PR24, PR29).
o Provide cost data and assurance for regulatory submissions to Ofwat and other regulators.
o Produce executive-level reports on cost efficiency for the Executive and Investment Committees.
o Report progress and actions to external stakeholders and shareholders.
o Collaborate across functions to manage risks and opportunities impacting strategic programme outcomes.
o Ensure robust and realistic cost estimates from suppliers and internal teams.
* Team Development & Transition Management (20%)
o Build and lead a new Cost Intelligence team within three years.
o Develop a business case and plan for in-sourcing the function, including systems and processes.
o Implement cost estimating and benchmarking software tools.
o Manage transition from outsourced services to in-house capability.
* Outsourced Contract Management (10%)
o Manage residual outsourced work for large, complex, and non-standard investments.
o Lead procurement of a new cost intelligence contract for peak demand and complex projects.
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Skills & Competencies
* Strategic and innovative thinker with strong business acumen and analytical skills.
* Expert in cost management, estimating, and benchmarking with credibility across internal teams and supply chain partners.
* Strong knowledge of construction contracts and cost structures.
* Experienced in managing outsourced services and transitioning to in-house models.
* Exceptional communication and influencing skills at senior and board level.
* Ability to lead and mobilise teams, set up new functions, and establish methodologies.
* Understanding of regulatory frameworks and strategic business planning.
* Highly numerate with expertise in business case development and commercial arrangements.
* Excellent planning and organisational skills to meet deadlines and quality expectations.
* Strong leadership skills to foster a cost-conscious, outcome-focused culture.
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Knowledge & Qualifications
Essential:
* Degree in a numerate discipline.
* MRICS or equivalent professional qualification.
* Proven contract management experience.
* Substantial experience in construction, water, or infrastructure sectors.
* Technical expertise in cost management, estimating, and benchmarking.
Desirable:
* Postgraduate qualification in a relevant subject.
* Experience in establishing teams and managing in/out-sourced transitions.
* Project Management and/or Management qualifications.
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Additional Requirements
This role requires building a new function from the ground up, not simply managing an existing team. The successful candidate will drive a step-change in cost estimating and modelling capability within the organisation.
Line Manager Responsibilities:
Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion strategies. Encourage authentic behaviours to foster an inclusive culture