Senior Cost Manager – Highways & Infrastructure

About the role

RLB is seeking an experienced client‑side cost management professional to lead the Roads & Bridges package of a major UK highways and infrastructure programme. The role combines cost planning, estimating, procurement, NEC contract administration and commercial leadership, with at least three days per week on‑site in Bedfordshire and hybrid working.

Key responsibilities

• Lead client‑side commercial management from design through construction, handover and close‑out, maintaining ownership of cost, procurement, change and risk outcomes.
• Provide cost assurance for highways, bridges, earthworks, drainage and utility interfaces, ensuring designs are commercially robust and buildable.
• Manage commercial implications of interfaces with operational railways and live highway environments, including traffic management and safety protocols.
• Support procurement strategy, prepare tender documentation, evaluate bids and administer NEC contracts, handling early warnings, compensation events and change control.
• Produce cost forecasts, cash‑flow drawdowns, value‑engineering analyses and regular commercial reports for senior stakeholders.

Required profile

• Proven cost management or quantity surveying experience on roads, highways, bridges or major civil infrastructure projects, preferably client‑side.
• Strong financial management skills including cost planning, estimating, cash‑flow forecasting and monthly client reporting.
• Experience with NEC forms of contract and multi‑stakeholder programmes involving statutory authorities, rail and utility interfaces.
• Relevant qualification in Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management or related discipline.
• Client‑focused, collaborative mindset with excellent communication and the ability to operate under pressure.

Required skills

• Cost planning
• Estimating
• NEC contract administration
• BIM‑aligned working
• Digital information management
• Modern methods of construction
• Whole‑life carbon awareness
• Risk management

What we offer

• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements with family‑friendly policies.
• Tailored training programme, mentoring and reverse‑mentoring schemes.
• Opportunity to work on ambitious, high‑profile infrastructure projects.
• Inclusive, employee‑owned culture that values progress and wellbeing.