Manager - Benchmarking (Cost Planning) - CDU6 - CDUP2009

Qiddiya Investment Company; Saudi Arabia; On-site; SAR 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading investment firm in Saudi Arabia seeks a Manager for Benchmarking in the Central Development Unit. In this crucial role, you will manage data-driven processes for cost planning and feasibility studies across various real estate projects. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Quantity Surveying, experience in the GCC construction industry, and strong skills in cost estimation and data analysis using tools like Power BI.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in cost planning and estimation for construction projects.
• Familiarity with GCC construction industry for 2+ years preferred.

Responsibilities

• Compile construction cost data from various asset classes.
• Analyze datasets to identify trends and insights.
• Create interactive benchmark dashboards using Power BI.
• Explore technological solutions to enhance cost benchmark capabilities.

Skills

Pre-contract cost estimation

Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel

Power BI knowledge

SQL knowledge

Python knowledge

Education

Degree in Quantity Surveying / Commercial Management

Professional Certifications (MRICS, AIQS)

Job description

Overview

General Summary Join Qiddiya Investment Company as a Manager for Benchmarking within Central Development Unit for Cost Planning, where you will play a vital role in leading and managing data‑driven benchmarking processes that support pre‑contract estimation, and development feasibility studies. You will play a pivotal role in collecting, analyzing, and maintaining accurate cost and design data across various real estate and infrastructure projects, and in developing robust benchmarking tools that support decision‑making at both strategic and project levels.

Responsibilities

• Data Collection and Management
  • Compile construction cost data of various asset classes from both within Qiddiya Business Units and external cost consultants.
  • Maintain databases, ensure proper data storage, and access protocols.
  • Collaborate with Central Development Unit data analyst and data office team to ensure consistency in data management.
• Data Validation and Analysis
  • Analyze datasets to identify trends and insights.
  • Clean, organize and validate construction cost data to align with benchmarking framework, structure, and guidelines.
  • Drive improvement data analysis efficiency.
• Reporting and Visualization
  • Create interactive benchmark dashboards and reports using tools such as Power BI, Looker, and Tableau.
  • Communicate findings clearly to the various stakeholders.
  • Develop automation to generate recurring reports in collaboration with Data Office Team.
• Integration of Technology
  • Explore technological solutions to enhance cost benchmark capabilities and workflows.

Qualifications

• Degree in Quantity Surveying / Commercial Management or equivalent.
• Professional Certifications – member of Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (MRICS), Australian Institute of Quantity Surveyors (AIQS), or equivalent (preferred).
• Proven experience in specific cost planning and estimation in construction or development projects.
• Worked in local (GCC) construction industry for 2 years or more (preferred).

Skills

• Proven experience with pre‑contract cost estimation and early‑stage feasibility analysis.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Knowledge of Power BI, SQL, and Python (an advantage).
• Proficient in benchmarking development/construction cost.
• Proficient in design benchmark (preferred).
• Ability to collaborate effectively with stakeholders and ensure certainty in outcomes.

Personal Attributes

• Output – High output orientation and drive.
• Decision Making – Considered decision making and influencing skills.
• Guidance – Provide guidance and support to other Cost Planners as a mentor.
• Aware – Strong overall awareness and ability to navigate effectively through issues.
• Leadership – Practical leadership skills, problem‑solving mindset and strong organizational skills.
• Relationships – Act professionally, build trust with others and create strong partnerships and relationships.
• Collaboration – Work collaboratively to deliver desired outcomes.
• Open to change – Adapt rapidly and frequently to new situations, and assist others in adapting to change.