Strategic Cost Manager, Higher Education Projects

Arcadis; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Arcadis is delivering some of the UK's most exciting Higher Education programmes, helping universities create exceptional environments for learning, research, and innovation.

We are seeking an experienced Cost Manager to join our expanding Cost and Commercial Management team, supporting Higher Education clients across a diverse portfolio of capital projects, estate developments, refurbishments, fit-outs, infrastructure, and specialist facilities.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in cost management, quantity surveying, or cost consulting within construction.
• Experience delivering capital projects, refurbishments, fit-outs, infrastructure, or estate development programmes.
• Higher Education sector experience is highly desirable.
• Strong commercial awareness and client-facing skills.
• Experience working in complex stakeholder environments and live operational settings.

Responsibilities

• Deliver cost management services across Higher Education projects from inception through to completion.
• Prepare and manage cost plans, estimates, budgets, procurement strategies, and tender documentation.
• Monitor and report on project costs, change control, risk, and financial performance.
• Administer contracts and provide commercial advice throughout the project lifecycle.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, consultants, contractors, and stakeholders to achieve successful project outcomes.
• Develop and maintain strong client relationships, supporting long-term growth and repeat business.
• Contribute to bids, tenders, and business development activities.
• Support the delivery of high-quality, commercially successful projects that meet client objectives.

Skills

Cost management

Quantity surveying

Client-facing

Procurement strategies

Education

MRICS chartership

Tools

JCT contracts

Job description

Arcadis is delivering some of the UK's most exciting Higher Education programmes, helping universities create exceptional environments for learning, research, and innovation.

We are seeking an experienced Cost Manager to join our expanding Cost and Commercial Management team, supporting Higher Education clients across a diverse portfolio of capital projects, estate developments, refurbishments, fit-outs, infrastructure, and specialist facilities.