Cost Manager / Senior Cost Manager (Fit-Out)

About the role

Turner & Townsend is looking for an experienced Cost Manager or Senior Cost Manager to join its organisation in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The role manages project costs, budgets and financial performance for fit-out projects across all contract stages, working closely with project teams, clients, stakeholders and contractors. It suits someone with expertise in pre-contract and post-contract cost management, contract administration and stakeholder engagement.

Key responsibilities

• Manage pre-contract services including feasibility studies, cost planning, Bills of Quantities preparation and tender documentation
• Develop, monitor and control project budgets and cost estimates from inception to completion, with detailed measurement and cost analysis
• Manage procurement processes, including vendor quotations, supplier negotiations and tender documentation
• Administer contract procedures under standard form contracts (FIDIC preferred), ensuring cost compliance and flagging financial risks
• Handle post-contract services such as interim applications, change management, variation valuations and extension of time claims
• Carry out cost reconciliation, variance analysis and financial forecasting, and prepare Estimate, Cost, Procurement and Tender reports
• Report cost performance and financial updates to senior management and project teams
• Senior Cost Managers also oversee multiple projects, mentor junior cost staff and give strategic cost management guidance

Required profile

• Degree in Quantity Surveying or a similar discipline
• MRICS or equivalent professional qualification preferred
• Minimum 7 years of cost management experience in fit-out, interior design or construction projects
• Prior experience in the UAE construction market is essential; prior consultancy experience strongly preferred
• Leadership and team management experience required for the Senior level

Required skills

• Cost estimation, budgeting and financial analysis
• Cost management software (CostX preferred), ERP systems and advanced Microsoft Excel
• BIM knowledge preferred
• Contract management, vendor and supplier negotiation, risk assessment and mitigation