WSP in the UK & Ireland
Associate Director - Cost Intelligence & Estimating - PMCM
How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Associate Director – Cost Intelligence & Estimating
About the Role
At WSP, you can drive impactful work in sectors that shape the future. Our global firm combines innovation with deep expertise to solve complex challenges in the built and natural environments. As an Associate Director within our Cost Intelligence & Estimating team, you’ll lead high-caliber services across major infrastructure and built environment projects, delivering strategic cost intelligence, benchmarking, and commercial insights.
This role merges technical mastery with strategic leadership, supporting clients in making confident, evidence-based investment decisions throughout the project lifecycle: from early-stage business case development and procurement support to cost planning and commercial management during delivery.
You’ll lead complex commissions, cultivate trusted client relationships, and drive business growth in key markets. Additionally, you’ll foster team development through line management, mentoring, and technical leadership, ensuring excellence while nurturing future talent.
Why This Team?
- Work in a growing Cost Intelligence & Estimating team specializing in water, energy, rail, highways, aviation, and built environment sectors.
- Part of a UK-wide PMCM team (~500 colleagues) providing QS, cost management, project controls, and strategic consulting.
- Collaborate with complementary disciplines across Civil Infrastructure & Utilities, leveraging WSP’s global networks for critical client opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
• Lead high-quality estimating, cost intelligence, and benchmarking services for major programmes in infrastructure and built environment sectors.
- Provide technical leadership across the full project lifecycle (business case → procurement → delivery).
- Deliver evidence-based commercial advice to empower confident investment decisions for clients.
Reasons to use Rodeo
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
It searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
• Commission delivery & opportunity growth:
- Lead complex estimating commissions.
- Drive bid, proposal, and work-winning activities, identifying and capitalizing on growth opportunities.
- Strengthen client relationships through strategic engagement and tailored solutions.
• Team development & mentorship:
- Act as a senior leader, mentoring colleagues and fostering technical and managerial growth.
- Maintain high-service standards while developing future talent.
Essential Requirements
- MRICS or equivalent commercial qualification.
- Extensive experience in water or energy sectors, with proven expertise in:
- Estimating & benchmarking across design stages.
- Digital tools, procurement strategies, and pre- and post-contract cost/commercial management.
- Senior-level experience in management, project leadership, and cost/commercial delivery, including:
- Business case development, investment appraisal, or programme-level strategic cost advice.
- Track record in team development, mentoring, and capability growth.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with experience working across cross-functional teams and stakeholders.
Preferred (but not required)
- Confidence in bid, proposal, and bid-winning strategies.
- Experience with specialist software (e.g., CostX, CEMAR, NEC Contracts).
- Knowledge of other regulated infrastructure sectors.
- Evidence of external professional contributions (e.g., networks, best practices).
About WSP
Our Vision: Bold Thinking for Future Generations
We are one of the world’s leading engineering and professional services firms, unifying local dedication with global expertise. Our 11,000+ professionals in the UK and Ireland focus on innovation, sustainability, and inclusion to deliver lasting community impact.
Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
What We Offer You
Culture & Inclusion
- A hybrid working policy (2 days remote, 3 in-office), complemented by collaborative headquarters.
- Commitment to diversity and belonging: WSP encourages authentic self-expression and supports employee resource groups to promote inclusivity.
Wellbeing & Support
- Thrive Wellbeing Programme: Tailored health and wellness resources.
- Virtual GP access via NHS/Irish Medical Council partnership.
- Gymflex Scheme: Up to 40% off annual gym memberships.
- Menopause support services.
Work-Life Flexibility
- "WSP My Hour": One flexible daily hour for personal pursuits.
- Part-time, flexible working, extra leave options, and customised bank holiday use.
Career Development
- Investment in training, mentoring, and Chartership opportunities.
- Pathways to grow with global projects and leadership roles.
Why Join Us?
"At WSP, you don’t just contribute to projects—you build a legacy. Whether shaping a skyline, securing clean energy, or delivering sustainable infrastructure, your work will help deliver ‘tomorrow’s solutions’ today.”
Ready to Apply?
Reach out if your experience aligns (even partially), and let us discuss how it could thrive at WSP—we’re dedicated to matching your skills with the right opportunity.
Apply now: [Career Page Link]
Diversity & Inclusion
WSP proudly advances equal opportunities for all, including individuals with disabilities or requiring workplace adjustments. As an (**[Certifying Organisation]****) we actively interview all qualified disabled applicants.
Ready to imagine a future where your best work matters? Apply today.
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills