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PACE Global

Cost Lead

Reading
£600/day
Posted about 13 hours ago
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Cost Lead – Project Controls

Contract | £600/day (Inside IR35) | Reading (Hybrid – 1-2 days on site)

Our client, a major player in the UK infrastructure sector, is seeking an experienced Cost Lead to join their Project Controls function on a contract basis. This is a key role supporting the delivery of a large-scale infrastructure programme, with responsibility for cost management, reporting, and forecasting across the project lifecycle.

The Role

Working within an established Project Controls team, you'll take the lead on cost control activities, ensuring accurate reporting and providing the insight needed to keep delivery on budget. Responsibilities include:

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Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme

PwC·London, UK
£35,000/yr

Why you're a good match

Strong

Your economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.

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Why you're a good match

You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.

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Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.

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  • Leading cost management across the programme, including budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis
  • Producing clear, accurate cost reports and dashboards for senior stakeholders
  • Monitoring commitments, actuals, and accruals, and maintaining cost baselines
  • Supporting change control, risk, and value management processes
  • Working closely with planning, commercial, and delivery teams to ensure alignment of cost and schedule
  • Driving continuous improvement in cost control processes and reporting standards

What We're Looking For

  • Proven experience as a Cost Lead / Cost Manager within a Project Controls environment
  • A track record of delivering on major infrastructure projects (essential)
  • Water sector experience is highly desirable, though not a requirement
  • Strong cost forecasting, reporting, and analytical skills
  • Confident engaging and influencing stakeholders at all levels
  • Relevant systems experience (e.g. cost management / ERP tools) and advanced Excel

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Contract Details

  • Rate: £600 per day (Inside IR35)
  • Location: Reading – hybrid working, 1-2 days per week on site, remainder remote
  • Type: Contract

How to Apply

To apply or find out more, please submit your CV via this advert or contact Martin Stanley at Pace Global for a confidential discussion.

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Skills

Cost Management
Budgeting
Forecasting
Variance Analysis
Cost Reporting
Change Control
Risk Management
Value Management
Stakeholder Management
Advanced Excel
ERP Tools
Project Controls

Location

Reading, England, United Kingdom

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