Strategic Cost Leader for Capital Projects

Turner & Townsend; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Turner & Townsend in Abu Dhabi is seeking an experienced Lead Cost Manager to head comprehensive cost management across major capital programmes, serving as a strategic partner to clients and stakeholders. You will drive commercial excellence, manage complex cost-control initiatives, and mentor a high-performing cost management team throughout the project lifecycle.

This senior role requires expertise in cost planning, estimating, and governance, with strong leadership and client-facing

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in Cost Consultancy and Quantity Surveying.
• MRICS qualification or equivalent professional accreditation.
• Substantial UAE/GCC experience, including exposure to complex and high-value capital projects.
• Demonstrated expertise in both pre-contract and post-contract cost management across the full project lifecycle.
• Proven experience leading, mentoring, and developing high-performing cost management teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a cost management team whilst serving as the primary point of contact for clients and stakeholders.
• Develop and implement cost planning, estimating, and cost control strategies for complex construction projects.
• Monitor project budgets, track financial performance, and prepare forecasts and cost analyses.
• Coordinate with general contractors, owner representatives, and external stakeholders to integrate cost management services.
• Develop strategic plans aligned with organizational goals, including risk mitigation and KPIs.
• Provide strategic advice on contracting, procurement strategy, and capital planning; participate in BD activities.
• Ensure compliance with internal controls and SOX requirements where applicable.

Skills

Leadership

Client-facing

Analytical mindset

Strategic thinking

Communication

Mentoring

Negotiation

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline

MRICS qualification or equivalent professional accreditation in quantity surveying or cost management

Job description

Turner & Townsend in Abu Dhabi is seeking an experienced Lead Cost Manager to head comprehensive cost management across major capital programmes, serving as a strategic partner to clients and stakeholders. You will drive commercial excellence, manage complex cost-control initiatives, and mentor a high-performing cost management team throughout the project lifecycle.

This senior role requires expertise in cost planning, estimating, and governance, with strong leadership and client-facing