Head – Cost Management

Job Description

AECOM is seeking a senior Head – Cost Management to lead cost consultancy and commercial management services across multiple concurrent projects/programs. The role requires an accomplished professional with proven experience as a Cost Manager / Commercial & Contract Lead on large, complex projects, strong client leadership, proposal and business development capability, and hands-on expertise with CostX or equivalent cost/measurement tools. Experience in Semiconductor facilities and/or Data Center (mission critical) environments is a strong advantage.

Responsibilities:

Leadership & Team Management:

• Build, lead, and scale a high‑performing Cost Management team delivering multiple concurrent projects across sectors.
• Own resource planning, capability development, succession planning, and performance management (KPIs, QA/QC, governance).
• Mentor senior cost managers and quantity surveyors; instill rigorous commercial discipline and ethical standards.
• Embed AECOM delivery frameworks and drive continuous improvement through lessons learned and best practices.
• Coordinate seamlessly with Project Management, Design, and Advisory teams to ensure integrated delivery.
• Provide regular executive reporting and risk briefings to the Executive Director.

Client Management:

• Act as the senior client interface, shaping account strategy, engagement plans, and satisfaction metrics.
• Lead commercial and progress meetings; manage expectations, scope, and change proactively.
• Build trust through transparent reporting, early risk signaling, and solution‑oriented dispute/issue resolution.
• Drive repeat business and account growth, positioning AECOM as a partner of choice.

Project Delivery:

• Oversee end‑to‑end pre‑ and post‑contract cost management: cost planning, estimates, BOQs, value engineering, benchmarking, and whole‑life costing.
• Define procurement strategies (EPC, Design‑Build, traditional), lead tendering, bid evaluation, negotiations, and contract awards.
• Administer contracts (e.g., FIDIC or equivalent); manage change control, payment certification, and final accounts.
• Establish robust risk, contingency, and forecast models; maintain accurate dashboards and executive reporting.
• Ensure compliance with AECOM standards, client requirements, and applicable codes; deliver on time, cost, and quality.

Proposal & Business Development:

• Lead pursuits and bid strategy: scope, methodology, staffing plans, delivery approach, and competitive differentiators.
• Develop fee models, pricing strategies, commercial qualifications, and risk/assumption registers.
• Author high‑quality technical write‑ups, case studies, and thought leadership; present confidently to C‑suite stakeholders.
• Partner with BD, sector leads, and regional leadership to build pipeline and improve win rates.

Technical Expertise:

• Mastery in cost planning, CostX (or equivalent) cost modeling, and data‑driven commercial controls (Excel/Power BI).
• Apply value engineering, benchmarking, whole‑life cost analysis, and 5D BIM integration.
• Hands‑on delay analysis (EOT, disruption), claims preparation/defense, forensic cost reviews, and dispute resolution.
• Integrate schedule and cost (Primavera/MS Project) for robust delivery forecasting and earned value insights.
• Establish data governance: templates, WBS, coding structures, and reporting standards.

Specialized Experience:

• Proven delivery across Real Estate (commercial, residential, mixed‑use), Hospitals/Healthcare, Industrial, Airports, Urban Development.
• Added advantage: Semiconductor facilities and Data Centers—cleanroom/mission‑critical MEP costing, high‑spec fit‑outs, fast‑track procurement, and risk‑managed delivery.
• Demonstrated leadership on large programs/projects, complex stakeholder environments, and multi‑contract interfaces.
• Strong track record in delay claims on major programs, with robust documentation and commercial outcomes.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in CostX (RIB CostX) or equivalent costing tools; advanced Excel and Power BI for dashboards.
• Knowledge of FIDIC (or equivalent) forms of contract; strong tendering, bid evaluation, and contract administration.
• Cost planning, BOQs, cost modeling, value engineering, benchmarking, and whole‑life cost analysis.
• Schedule‑cost integration with Primavera P6/MS Project; familiarity with 5D BIM workflows.
• Strong report writing, executive briefings, and commercial risk management.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Professional credentials: MRICS/FRICS, AACE (e.g., CCP), PMP, or equivalent.
• Experience in Semiconductor/Data Center environments and mission‑critical assets.
• Exposure to digital transformation in cost management (5D BIM, data automation, standardization).
• Familiarity with regional procurement norms and large‑scale program governance.

Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Quantity Surveying, Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related discipline.
• Master’s in a relevant field is an advantage.

Experience:

• 20+ years of progressive experience in Cost Management, Contract Administration, and Procurement.
• Track record as Cost Manager / Procurement & Contract Manager on large, complex programs/projects.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams across multiple projects, manage clients, and deliver commercial outcomes.
• Rich sector exposure: Real Estate, Hospitals, Industrial, Airports, and Urban Development; Semiconductor/Data Center experience is a plus.
• Hands‑on experience with delay claims, EOT/disruption, change management, and final accounts.

Additional Information

• Strong people leadership: ability to build, mentor, and lead high-performing teams across multiple projects.
• Excellent client management skills with executive presence and the ability to manage expectations and resolve escalations.
• Strong communication and influencing skills, clear, structured reporting and confident stakeholder engagement.
• High ownership mindset, decision-making under pressure, and structured problem-solving.
• Strong collaboration across multi-disciplinary and matrix organizations.

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.