Senior Cost Manager

Jones Lang LaSalle IP, Inc; United Arab Emirates; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global real estate firm is seeking a Senior Cost Manager in Dubai to oversee the commercial management of residential projects. This role involves preparing cost estimates, managing contracts, and ensuring compliance throughout the project lifecycle. Candidates should possess at least 10 years of consultancy experience, including 5 years in UAE, with a relevant degree and RICS qualification preferred. The position requires proficiency in cost management software and strong analytical and negotiation skills.

Qualifications

• Experience in pre and post contract in residential projects in UAE.
• Minimum 10 years consultancy experience with minimum 5 years in UAE.

Responsibilities

• Oversee commercial aspects of residential projects, managing contracts and budgets.
• Prepare detailed cost estimates and budgets for development projects.
• Conduct market analysis for construction costs and materials.
• Manage tender processes and assist clients in contract negotiations.
• Ensure compliance with contract specifications and manage project close-out procedures.

Skills

Cost management software proficiency

Analytical skills

Negotiation skills

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or related field

RICS qualification

Tools

MS Office suite

Job description

Overview

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way.

Our people at JLL and JLL Technologies are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong. Whether you’ve got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you’re looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.

Position Overview: The Senior Cost Manager oversees the commercial aspects of a residential project, ensuring effective management of hard and soft costs, contracts, and budgets reporting directly to the client. This role is responsible for effective commercial management, mitigating risk, and assuring contractual compliance throughout the project lifecycle. The Commercial Manager works closely with project teams, clients, and stakeholders to deliver projects successfully—on budget, on time, and in accordance with legal and company requirements.

What this job involves

Precontract RR

• Prepare detailed cost estimates and budgets for development projects from initial feasibility through design phases
• Conduct value engineering analysis and provide cost optimization recommendations
• Review and analyze architectural and engineering drawings for cost implications
• Develop and maintain cost databases and benchmarking data for various project types
• Prepare feasibility studies and investment appraisals for proposed developments
• Coordinate with design teams to ensure cost targets are achievable within project parameters
• Conduct market analysis for construction costs, materials, and labor rates
• Prepare monthly cost reports and forecasts for project stakeholders
• Manage cost managers project team

Post Contract RR

• Manage tender processes including preparation of tender documentation and bid analysis
• Assist client negotiate contract value, assist team to compile contract documents and review completeness of them
• Knowledge of construction contracts in accordance with standard forms (FIDIC red book)
• Manage change control procedures and assess cost impact of scope changes
• Process and evaluate contractor payment applications and variation orders
• Conduct regular site visits to monitor progress and validate payment claims
• Liaise with project team to ensure accurate project reporting
• Support client in handling dispute resolution and claims management throughout construction phase
• Ensure compliance with contract specifications and delivery requirements
• Coordinate final account settlements and project close-out procedures
• Maintain comprehensive project documentation and cost control records

Desired skills and experience

• Experience in pre and post contract in residential projects in UAE.
• Degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or related field.
• RICS qualification preferred
• Minimum 10 years consultancy experience with minimum 5 years in UAE

• Proficiency in cost management software and MS Office suite
• Excellent analytical, negotiation, and communication skills

Location

On-site – Dubai, ARE

If this job description resonates with you, we encourage you to apply even if you don’t meet all of the requirements. We’re interested in getting to know you and what you bring to the table!

At JLL, we harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to efficiently accelerate meaningful connections between candidates and opportunities. Using AI capabilities, we analyze your application for relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications to generate valuable insights about how your unique profile aligns with the specific requirements of the role you're pursuing.

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