We are seeking an experienced Lead Cost Controller to join a high-performing project controls team supporting the delivery of major capital projects. This leadership role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of project cost control, forecasting, reporting and performance analysis while mentoring and developing a team of cost professionals.
Working closely with project management, engineering, procurement and planning teams, you will ensure robust cost management practices are implemented throughout the project lifecycle, providing accurate financial reporting and commercial insights to support successful project delivery.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the implementation and continuous improvement of project cost control systems, processes and procedures.
- Manage project budgets, forecasts, cash flow and cost reporting to ensure accurate financial performance tracking.
- Prepare and present monthly cost reports, variance analysis and performance forecasts to project leadership.
- Lead, mentor and develop a team of Cost Controllers, fostering collaboration and professional growth.
- Work closely with planning, procurement, contracts and project delivery teams to ensure alignment across project controls functions.
- Monitor project commitments, progress and earned value to assess project performance and identify potential risks.
- Forecast cost to complete and proactively identify opportunities to mitigate budget overruns.
- Support contract administration, progress claim reviews and payment verification.
- Ensure change management processes are effectively implemented and reflected within project forecasts.
- Maintain accurate cost data across project management and financial systems.
- Support capital planning activities and project close-out from a cost management perspective.
- Build strong working relationships with internal stakeholders, contractors and consultants.
- Minimum 10 years' experience in project controls or cost control within large-scale engineering, construction, mining, energy or infrastructure projects.
- Demonstrated experience leading cost control functions on complex capital projects.
- Previous leadership experience managing and developing high-performing cost control teams.
- Strong understanding of project controls methodologies, including budgeting, forecasting, earned value management (EVM), cash flow analysis and change management.
- Experience working across the full project lifecycle, from study phases through to execution and project close-out.
- Strong commercial acumen with the ability to interpret financial data and provide strategic recommendations.
- Advanced Microsoft Excel and MS Office skills.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Experience with project cost management systems and ERP platforms is highly regarded.
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Commerce, Finance or a related discipline.
- Project Management or recognised Project Controls certification is highly regarded.
- Opportunity to lead the cost control function on major capital projects.
- Work within a collaborative and experienced project delivery team.
- Exposure to large-scale engineering and construction projects.
- Long-term career development and leadership opportunities.
- Competitive remuneration package.
