Senior Cost Manager Pre-Contract

Omnium International Limited; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 300,000 - 400,000; Full time

Job summary

Omnium International Limited is seeking a Senior Pre-Contract Cost Manager to join our Abu Dhabi team. The successful candidate will lead pre-contract cost management for large-scale developments, ensuring effective planning and budget adherence.

Ideal candidates will have over 10 years of experience in Quantity Surveying, with at least 5 years in the Middle East, along with strong skills in cost management and stakeholder relations.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years' postgraduate experience in Quantity Surveying and Cost Management.
• At least 5 years' experience within the Middle East.
• Proven track record of delivering pre-contract cost management services.

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of pre-contract cost management services on projects.
• Develop, review and manage cost plans and budgets.
• Provide strategic cost advice to clients and project teams.

Skills

Cost management

Analytical skills

Stakeholder management

Negotiation

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in quantity surveying or related discipline

Professional membership with RICS (MRICS) or equivalent

Tools

CostX software

Job description

About the role

We are seeking an experienced and commercially astute Senior Pre-Contract Cost Manager to join our Abu Dhabi team. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading the delivery of pre-contract cost management services across a portfolio of large-scale and complex developments, ensuring projects are effectively planned, budgeted, procured and delivered in line with client objectives.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee the delivery of pre-contract cost management services across multiple large-scale and complex projects from feasibility through to tender stage.
• Develop, review and manage detailed cost plans, estimates, budgets and financial forecasts throughout all design stages.
• Provide strategic cost advice to clients and project teams, supporting informed decision-making and budget control.
• Lead value engineering and cost optimization exercises to maximize project value while maintaining quality and functionality requirements.
• Undertake cost benchmarking, market analysis and risk assessments to identify cost drivers, opportunities and project risks.
• Manage the preparation of tender documentation including Bills of Quantities, pricing schedules, specifications and tender reports.
• Advise on procurement strategies, contract selection, commercial risks and tendering approaches to achieve project objectives.
• Review and evaluate tender submissions, prepare tender analysis reports and provide recommendations for contract award.
• Prepare and present high-quality cost reports, cash flow forecasts, commercial presentations and client deliverables.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, mentor junior team members and contribute to business development and team growth initiatives.

Minimum Requirements

Minimum 10 years' postgraduate experience in Quantity Surveying and Cost Management, including at least 5 years within the Middle East. Proven track record of delivering pre-contract cost management services on large-scale and complex projects. Strong experience working within a Cost Consultancy or Project Management Consultancy environment. Demonstrated experience across multiple sectors, including residential, hospitality, commercial, retail, mixed-use and infrastructure developments. Advanced proficiency in CostX software for measurement, estimating, cost planning and reporting. Strong understanding of UAE construction costs, procurement practices, supply chains and market dynamics. Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret and utilise cost data effectively. Exceptional client-facing, presentation and stakeholder management skills. Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to produce high-quality reports and presentations. Excellent negotiation, leadership and teamwork capabilities.

Qualifications & Training

Bachelor's degree in quantity surveying, construction management or a related discipline. Professional membership with RICS (MRICS) or equivalent recognised professional accreditation. Additional professional qualifications and certifications will be considered advantageous.