We are seeking an experienced Senior Quantity Surveyor / Senior Cost Manager to join an established cost management team in London. This is an excellent opportunity for a commercially focused professional to lead complex commissions, build trusted client relationships and deliver high-quality cost management and commercial advice across a diverse portfolio of projects.

The successful candidate will take ownership of projects from feasibility through to completion, oversee project teams and contribute to the development of technical capability, junior colleagues and client relationships.

Flexible and hybrid working arrangements are available, with a requirement to work collaboratively with clients and project teams as needed.

• Lead cost management commissions from inception to completion, taking responsibility for project scope, quality, programme, client satisfaction and commercial performance.

• Act as the primary day-to-day client contact, providing clear, evidence-based commercial advice and developing strong relationships with senior stakeholders.

• Prepare and review feasibility studies, cost estimates, cost plans, cash flows, benchmarking exercises, option appraisals and commercial reports.

• Lead value management exercises, identifying cost efficiencies and opportunities to maximise value without compromising project objectives.

• Develop procurement and contracting strategies, prepare tender and contract documentation, manage tender processes and provide recommendations.

• Oversee post-contract cost management, including valuations, forecasting, change control, risk management, cost reporting and final account negotiations.

• Administer and support contracts under JCT, NEC and other relevant forms of contract, ensuring contractual obligations and documentation are managed effectively.

• Establish appropriate project governance, reporting procedures and commercial controls, maintaining accurate records and supporting informed decision-making.

• Identify cost, programme, procurement and delivery risks, assess their potential impact and coordinate appropriate mitigation measures.

• Work closely with multidisciplinary teams to ensure design development, programme, risk and commercial information remain aligned.

• Manage project resources, delegate responsibilities and review technical outputs to maintain high standards of service delivery.

• Manage commission finances, including fee budgets, forecasting, scope changes, invoicing, cash collection and profitability.

• Support business development activities, including bids, proposals, client presentations and account development.

• Identify opportunities to strengthen existing client relationships, secure repeat business and expand the range of services provided.

• Coach, mentor and technically review the work of quantity surveyors, graduates and other team members.

• Promote best practice across health and safety, sustainability, digital delivery, data quality and continuous improvement.

• Maintain high professional and ethical standards, applying sound commercial judgement and communicating risks effectively.

• Proven experience delivering quantity surveying or cost management services within the UK property or built environment sector, ideally within a consultancy.

• A strong track record of independently managing commissions and maintaining effective client relationships throughout the project lifecycle.

• Detailed knowledge of pre- and post-contract cost management, including estimating, cost planning, procurement, tendering, contract administration, change control and final accounts.

• Strong working knowledge of UK construction contracts, particularly JCT and NEC, with the ability to apply contractual and commercial principles in practice.

• Confidence facilitating meetings, presenting recommendations and engaging effectively with clients, consultants, contractors and senior decision-makers.

• Excellent analytical, commercial and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex project information and communicate findings clearly.

• Experience coordinating and reviewing the work of others, providing constructive feedback and supporting professional development.

• Strong commission management skills, including fee management, resource planning, forecasting, scope control, invoicing and financial reporting.

• A proactive and collaborative approach, with the ability to manage competing priorities and changing deadlines while maintaining quality.

• A degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management or a related discipline.

• MRICS or an equivalent recognised professional qualification.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, and cost management software such as CostX or similar platforms.

• An interest in digital cost management, market intelligence, sustainability and emerging technologies.

The successful candidate will be expected to demonstrate strong technical expertise, commercial awareness and the ability to lead commissions independently.

Key expectations include:

• Project leadership: Mobilise, plan and manage commissions, taking ownership of deliverables, deadlines, project controls and client outcomes.

• Technical expertise: Produce and review complex technical deliverables, identify gaps in information and apply sound professional judgement.

• Client relationships: Act as a trusted commercial adviser, anticipate client needs and communicate challenges alongside practical solutions.

• Commercial accountability: Manage project scope, resources, fees and changes effectively while protecting client value and commercial performance.

• People development: Delegate effectively, provide constructive feedback and create opportunities for colleagues to develop their skills.

• Business development: Contribute to bids, strengthen client relationships and identify opportunities for repeat business and further growth.

• Professional standards: Maintain accurate records, follow governance and quality procedures, and demonstrate ethical and responsible decision-making.

• Career progression: Develop the leadership, client management and commercial capabilities required to progress towards Managing Quantity Surveyor or more senior responsibilities.

• Projects are delivered in line with agreed scope, programme, quality and commercial objectives.

• Cost plans, forecasts and reports are accurate, timely and reliable, with risks and changes identified and managed proactively.

• Clients receive clear, effective commercial advice and view you as a trusted adviser.

• Strong client relationships generate repeat commissions, referrals and opportunities to expand service delivery.

• Project teams have clear direction, responsibilities and effective review processes.

• Junior colleagues receive appropriate support and demonstrate continued professional development.

• Project fees, resources, scope and cash flow are managed effectively.

• You contribute to business development, knowledge sharing and the continuous improvement of technical standards.

• You demonstrate the expertise, leadership and commercial awareness needed to progress into more senior management positions.

The role offers opportunities for continued professional development, technical training and leadership development, alongside exposure to a varied portfolio of projects and clients.

A competitive salary and benefits package is available, including flexible working arrangements and opportunities to support your health, wellbeing, financial and lifestyle needs.

Aldwych Consulting values diversity and promotes equality. No terminology in this advert is intended to discriminate against any of the protected characteristics that fall under the Equality Act 2010. We encourage and welcome applications from all sections of society and are happy to discuss reasonable adjustments and/or additional arrangements as required to support your application.

Candidates must be eligible to live and work in the UK.

For the purposes of the Conduct Regulations 2003, when advertising permanent vacancies we are acting as an Employment Agency, and when advertising temporary/contract vacancies we are acting as an Employment Business.