Job Title
Cost Manager (m/w/d)
Job Description Summary
The Cost Manager delivers comprehensive cost management and commercial advisory services across construction, refurbishment and fitout projects throughout Germany and Switzerland. The role is responsible for managing project costs from initial feasibility through procurement, construction and financial close-out, ensuring clients achieve value for money while maintaining budget certainty. Projects are predominantly office interior fit-out and commercial real estate projects for technology clients. However, the position offers exposure to a broad range of asset classes, including office, industrial, logistics, retail and mixed-use developments, supporting clients from early feasibility through procurement, construction and project close-out. The position works closely with clients, project managers, consultants and contractors, providing strategic commercial advice and contributing to the successful delivery of projects. As part of this role, we would offer guidance and support to becoming a RICS recognized Chartered Surveyor (MRICS).
Job Description
Key Responsibilities:
The Cost Manager is responsible for providing professional cost management services throughout the entire project lifecycle while ensuring effective commercial control and financial reporting.
Responsibilities include:
- Preparing detailed cost estimates during feasibility, design development, pre- tender and Bills of Quantities (BoQ) stages.
- Developing and maintaining project cost plans and target budgets throughout all project phases.
- Producing benchmarking analyses and advising clients on project cost performance. Managing procurement activities, including preparation of tender documentation, administration of tender processes, evaluation of tender submissions and preparation of tender reports and recommendations.
- Preparing monthly cost reports, cash flow forecasts and accrual reports.
- Managing project change control processes and maintaining comprehensive change records.
- Reviewing contractor applications for payment and supporting monthly contract valuations.
- Verifying invoices and maintaining payment documentation and procurement trackers.
- Producing value engineering reports and identifying cost-saving opportunities while maintaining project quality.
- Managing financial close-out, final accounts, retention payments and financial close-out reports.
- Advising clients on procurement strategies, contract administration, insurance requirements and commercial risk.
- Supporting contract preparation, administration and payment certification.
- Providing advice on Bills of Quantities, VAT, taxation matters, performance bonds and guarantees where required.
- Supporting extension of time assessments and commercial aspects of dispute avoidance and resolution.
- Representing the commercial function during project meetings and working closely with internal and external stakeholders to ensure successful project delivery.
- Supporting the development and mentoring of junior colleagues where appropriate.
Knowledge & Experience:
- Degree in Architecture, Quantity Surveying, Construction Economics, Civil Engineering, Construction Management or a comparable discipline.
- Approximately 2–7 years of professional experience in cost management, quantity surveying or commercial management within the construction industry.
- Experience delivering cost management services across multiple stages of construction projects.
- Strong knowledge of construction procurement, contract administration and commercial management principles.
- Experience preparing cost plans, tender evaluations, financial reports and final accounts.
- Strong analytical, negotiation and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent stakeholder management and client-facing communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and work independently while maintaining high levels of accuracy.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and relevant cost management software.
- Knowledge of AI Tools and desire to develop job efficiencies and improve services through utilization.
- Knowledge of German construction contracts, procurement processes and commercial practices is desirable.
- Fluency in German and good English language skills.
- High level of initiative, commercial awareness, and commitment to delivering excellent client service
What we offer:
Early assumption of responsibility, flat hierarchies and an international and modern working environment, attractive and performance-related remuneration, flexible working hours, 30 vacation days plus special leave days, further training and development opportunities, company pension scheme.
Please note, we do not consider applications per E-mail.
We foster a culture of inclusion that embraces the unique strengths, perspectives, and experiences of all our employees. We firmly believe that our diversity enhances our team's capabilities, leading to improved decision-making, innovation, and business outcomes.
Cushman & Wakefield is an equal opportunity / affirmative action employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to ethnicity, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, marital status, or any other legally protected characteristic. Cushman & Wakefield is committed to equity in employment, and our goal is to have a diverse, inclusive and barrier-free workplace. If you are a person with a disability and need any other accessible accommodations during the hiring process, you are invited to bring this to the Talent Acquisition Advisor’s attention once they have made contact.
INCO: “Cushman & Wakefield”
