Cost Lead

PACE Global; Reading; Hybrid; GBP 66,000 - 111,000; Part time

Job summary

PACE Global in Reading is seeking an experienced Cost Lead to join the Project Controls team on a contract basis. You will own cost control across a large infrastructure programme, delivering accurate reporting and forecasting to keep delivery on budget.

The role requires proven cost management skills, strong Excel and ERP experience, and the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels in a hybrid, on-site weekly pattern.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as Cost Lead/Cost Manager in a Project Controls environment.
• Track record delivering major infrastructure projects.
• Strong cost forecasting, reporting and analytical skills.
• Able to engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience with cost management/ERP tools and advanced Excel.

Responsibilities

• Lead cost management across the programme, including budgeting, forecasting and variance analysis.
• Produce clear cost reports and dashboards for senior stakeholders.
• Monitor commitments, actuals and accruals, maintain cost baselines.
• Support change control, risk and value management processes.
• Work with planning, commercial and delivery teams to align cost and schedule.
• Drive continuous improvement in cost control processes and reporting standards.

Skills

Cost management

Budgeting

Forecasting

Variance analysis

Excel

Stakeholder engagement

Tools

ERP systems

Cost management tools

Job description

Contract | £600/day (Inside IR35) | Reading (Hybrid – 1-2 days on site)

Our client, a major player in the UK infrastructure sector, is seeking an experienced Cost Lead to join their Project Controls function on a contract basis. This is a key role supporting the delivery of a large-scale infrastructure programme, with responsibility for cost management, reporting, and forecasting across the project lifecycle.

The Role

Working within an established Project Controls team, you'll take the lead on cost control activities, ensuring accurate reporting and providing the insight needed to keep delivery on budget. Responsibilities include:

• Leading cost management across the programme, including budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis
• Producing clear, accurate cost reports and dashboards for senior stakeholders
• Monitoring commitments, actuals, and accruals, and maintaining cost baselines
• Supporting change control, risk, and value management processes
• Working closely with planning, commercial, and delivery teams to ensure alignment of cost and schedule
• Driving continuous improvement in cost control processes and reporting standards

What We're Looking For

• Proven experience as a Cost Lead / Cost Manager within a Project Controls environment
• A track record of delivering on major infrastructure projects (essential)
• Water sector experience is highly desirable, though not a requirement
• Strong cost forecasting, reporting, and analytical skills
• Confident engaging and influencing stakeholders at all levels
• Relevant systems experience (e.g. cost management / ERP tools) and advanced Excel
• Location: Reading – hybrid working, 1-2 days per week on site, remainder remote
• Type: Contract