Senior Cost Manager

Gleeds; Leeds; Hybrid; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Gleeds is seeking a Senior Cost Manager to Associate Director level for Data Centres, based in Leeds with hybrid working (home, office and client sites). This permanent, full-time role offers flexible hours within core times and a clear career path.

You will lead cost estimation, cost planning and procurement strategies, oversee contract administration (FIDIC and NEC), and mentor junior team members while delivering high-profile, technically complex projects.

Qualifications

• End-to-end project experience within the Data Centre sector.
• Experience with FIDIC and NEC forms of contract.
• Strong cost estimating and cost planning knowledge.
• Knowledge of procurement strategies and tendering.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.

Responsibilities

• Take a lead role with clients to ensure cost and specification alignment.
• Execute and administer FIDIC/NEC contracts.
• Engage stakeholders across the portfolio.
• Manage Contractor and Subcontractor accounts.
• Lead and mentor junior team members.
• Oversee master planning and feasibility studies.
• Lead on estimating, benchmarking and market intelligence reports.

Skills

End-to-end project experience

Cost estimation

Cost planning

Contract administration

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Negotiation

Team mentoring

Communication skills

MS Excel

MS PowerPoint

Education

Degree in Quantity Surveying / Cost Management / Construction

RICS/CIOB/CICES/CIPS membership desirable

Tools

FIDIC contracts

NEC contracts

MS Outlook

MS Word

Job description

Senior Cost Manager to Associate Director level – Data Centres

• Leeds (Hybrid: home, office, client sites)
• Permanent, full‑time with flexible working and core hours

Gleeds is a leading global property and construction consultancy. Independent since 1875, we are proud to deliver award‑winning projects around the world. We are a Great Place to Work certified employer, with our people at the heart of everything we do.

With a strong pipeline of major programmes underway, we’re looking for a seasoned quantity surveyor who can confidently lead and contribute to high‑profile, technically complex projects. In this role, no two days will be the same. Your responsibilities will vary depending on the programme you’re supporting, ensuring you remain challenged, motivated, and deeply involved in the impactful work we deliver.

Responsibilities

• Taking a lead role with clients to ensure work is done to specification and to cost.
• Execution and administration of various forms of contract including FIDIC and NEC suites.
• Stakeholder engagement across portfolio.
• Management of Contractor and Subcontractor accounts.
• Lead and support project through RIBA stages.
• Lead and mentor junior members of the team.
• Ownership of master planning and feasibility studies.
• Leading on estimating, benchmarking and market intelligence reports, reviews and management to ensure consistent baselines.

Experience, Knowledge & Key Skills

• End‑to‑end project experience within the Data Centre sector
• Experience using standard forms of contract including FIDIC and NEC suites.
• Consultancy background preferred.
• Detailed knowledge and practiced experience of cost estimating and cost planning techniques.
• Comprehensive knowledge of construction procurement strategies, including tendering and contract strategies.
• Clear understanding of legislation impacting on building contracts.
• Ability to motivate others (including providing support and encouragement) and to lead high performance teams.
• Clear and effective communication skills - both oral and written.
• Methodical way of thinking and approach to work.
• Ability to absorb complex information and assess requirements readily.
• Excellent problem solving, negotiating, financial and numeracy skills.
• Sound ICT skills, with a high level of proficiency in MS Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint
• Ability to prepare first‑class bids for services.
• Competent at negotiating sufficient fees to both complete services and generate required profit levels.
• Ability to work as part of a team and manage teams.

Qualifications

• Ideally HNC, HND or Degree qualified in Quantity Surveying / Cost Management, Construction Law, or similar / relevant discipline, or in some cases applicants with an alternative background (e.g.: Engineering) may be considered.
• Professional qualifications and/or membership of the RICS, CIOB, CICES, CIPS or other relevant Chartered Institute are desirable, and will be supported if not already attained.

About us

Gleeds is a global property and construction consultancy with over 150 years of expertise, operating in 28 countries worldwide. From iconic landmarks to critical infrastructure, we drive innovation, sustainability and value, delivering transformative projects that shape communities and redefine the built environment.

As a certified Great Place to Work, Gleeds promotes an inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected and valued. We uphold Fairness, Inclusion, and Respect (FIR) and embrace team diversity. As an equal opportunities employer, we provide support, flexibility and accessibility. For reasonable adjustments, contact our Talent Team at [e-mail].