Project Cost Controller

The Project Cost Controller will be responsible for shaping and driving the commercial success of the company, delivering robust commercial management across projects operating under NEC3 | NEC4 and similar contract frameworks.

This role ensures commercial governance, cost control, contract compliance, and risk mitigation throughout the project lifecycle. Reporting directly to the Project Delivery Manager, the Commercial Lead will work closely with project and commercial teams to support successful delivery via effective project control leadership, project profitability and sustainable growth. You will also be a key participant in strategic planning and implementation, market analysis, profitability reviews and contract management.

The role will also oversee the workload, performance, and development of a Commercial Assistant.

 Role specific responsibilities:

Overall

• Lead and manage all commercial activities from project handover and budgeting through to final project results and cash collection, ensuring profitability, compliance, and sustained business growth. This includes overseeing contract management, performance monitoring, and strategic market development.

Contract & Commercial Management

• Lead the administration and management of NEC3 | NEC4 and similar contract frameworks, ensuring compliance with contract provisions and project delivery requirements.
• Prepare, review, and negotiate contract documents, including compensation events, early warnings, quotations, and project manager instructions.
• Advise project teams on NEC and similar contract mechanisms and ensure best practice in contractual and commercial decision-making.
• Produce accurate and timely commercial reporting, including forecasts, cashflow, cost-to-complete, and earned value.
• Maintain an up-to-date contracts database, proactively managing key dates, deliverables, and invoicing timelines.
• Proactively follow up on any opportunity to maximise revenue out of existing contracts.
• Liaise with legal counsel to mitigate contractual risks and resolve disputes efficiently.
• Build and maintain effective working relationships with clients, contractors, and internal stakeholders.

Financial & Risk Management

• Monitor and report project financial performance and identify and assess commercial risks and opportunities early, proposing any mitigation strategies where appropriate.

Project & Product Group Performance Monitoring and Reporting:

• Monitor the performance of commercial activities using key metrics, identifying trends, risks, and opportunities.
• Provide analytical insights to support strategic decision-making and financial planning.
• Deliver reports for senior management as required.
• Contribute to the development of project budgets and cashflow forecasts.
• Oversee accurate and timely commercial forecasting on revenue, cost, margin, and cash flow.
• Monitor and drive cash collection activities, ensuring the timely receipt of customer payments and the efficient settlement of vendor obligations.

Process Improvement & Governance

• Promote continuous improvement in commercial processes, especially around NEC and similar contract framework administration.
• Ensure commercial policies, procedures, and reporting standards are consistently applied across project teams.
• Contribute to lessons learned exercises, knowledge sharing, and upskilling initiatives within the commercial function.

Team Leadership & Development

• Oversee, delegate, and prioritise the Commercial Assistant’s workload to ensure timely and high-quality outputs.
• Provide mentorship, guidance, and technical support to aid the Assistant’s learning and professional development.
• Conduct regular performance reviews, identify strengths and development areas, and support training plans.
• Review and approve work produced by the Commercial Assistant, including cost reports, contract documentation, and commercial correspondence.

Commercial Strategy & Business Development

• Develop and implement commercial strategies for the Renewables and Infrastructure market aligned with company goals.

Job Specific Education Required:

• Degree in Finance, Quantity Surveying, Commercial Management, Construction Management, Law, or related discipline (or equivalent experience) is desirable but not essential.

Work Experience Required:

• The employee should have a track record in a relevant commercial role.
• Solid knowledge of performance reporting and financial/budgeting processes.
• Combine commercial awareness with a strategic and growth mindset.
• Be forward-thinking and adaptable to market dynamics.
• Experience with managing NEC contracts

Skills & Knowledge Required:

• Financially strong
• Strong experience in commercial or contract management with in-depth knowledge of NEC3 and NEC4 contract suites.