WSP in the UK & Ireland
Senior Cost Manager (Health and Life Sciences)
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Senior Cost Manager (Health and Life Sciences)
Senior Cost Manager – Health and Life Sciences Advisory (WSP)
At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects, and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. Join a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives while shaping a career as unique as you are.
The Health and Life Sciences Advisory team at WSP helps organisations become more efficient and effective across critical sectors—improving NHS patient pathways, developing world-leading science laboratories, and optimising educational campuses to attract top-tier talent and investment.
Our clients consistently praise our unique value: a breadth of skill sets that sets us apart. By joining WSP, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping outcomes for both our clients and our colleagues.
About the Role
As a Senior Cost Manager, you will support the delivery of diverse projects within the health and life sciences sectors, contributing to a dynamic team that provides full cost management services from feasibility through to project completion. Your responsibilities include:
- Delivering robust cost plans for complex refurbishments and new-build schemes
- Supporting procurement, tendering, contract administration, and ensuring stringent cost control throughout the project lifecycle
- Working collaboratively with NHS Trusts, science clients, and design teams
You will be a strategic partner in driving financial and operational excellence within these critical sectors.
Key Responsibilities
Cost & Financial Management
- Utilise all common procurement strategies to optimise project delivery
- Negotiate contract T&Cs (NEC and JCT forms) with contractors, representing client interests and fulfilling traditional Quantity Surveyor (QS) responsibilities
- Lead tender processes, producing Tender and Value for Money (VfM) reports
- Manage the entire project lifecycle, including monthly cost assessments/payments, variation negotiations, and monthly cost reports
- Prepare estimates, cost plans (NRM-based), pricing schedules, and contract documentation
- Generate cost reports, cashflows, and present findings to stakeholders
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Stakeholder & Team Leadership
- Facilitate value and risk management, including structured risk workshops and value engineering proposals
- Mentor junior team members, fostering growth while ensuring client delivery standards
- Manage project delivery within QS scope of services and agreed fee amounts, identifying potential changes/challenges proactively
Requirements
Essential Experience & Qualifications
- Degree-level education in Quantity Surveying or Commercial Management
- Chartered Professional status (or eligibility via RICS or CIOB)
- Demonstratable track record of successful procurement/tender outcomes
- Proficiency in traditional and design-and-build contracts, NEC/JCT mechanisms
- Experience in two-stage procurement processes and client-focused delivery
- Strong project controls and financial management skills, including governance compliance and compliance auditing
- Client-facing communication skills, ability to collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams
Commercial & Operational Skills
- Commercial acumen, logical thinking, and adherence to high standards
- Proven ability to work independently and deliver outcomes under pressure
- Familiarity with consultancy environments, distilling complex financial data for decision-makers
Why You Might Still Apply
While we seek candidates who align closely with the criteria above, we recognise diverse strengths. If you possess complementary experience, we’d love to explore how you could contribute to our team—either in this role or alternative opportunities within Health and Life Sciences Advisory.
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About WSP
As one of the world’s leading engineering and professional services firms, we unite 69,000+ passionate professionals to create lasting positive impacts in communities globally. With 9,000+ experts operating across the UK and Ireland, we balance local dedication with global innovation.
At WSP, you join a physical or hybrid setting where your impact is celebrated—with enduring values rooted in innovation, integrity, and inclusion.
What’s In It for You?
Culture & Wellbeing
- Hybrid working: Design flexibility (2 days per week remote, plus modern UK offices).
- WSP My Hour: Dedicated daily time for personal investments.
- Flexible and part-time schedules, bank holiday pool, and premium leave purchasing.
Investment & Development
- Thrive Programme: Health/wellbeing support including a Virtual GP service.
- Gymflex scheme: Up to 40% off annual gym memberships.
- Mentoring/Chartership programmes: Inclusive training with clear career progression.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
- A disability-confident employer: Accommodations for candidates during assessment.
- Efforts ensure all qualified applicants (regardless of background) are considered fairly.
Join Us
Imagine a better future—for you, and for us all. Your contribution matters. Apply today and #WeAreWSP.
More information at WSP Careers: We are hiring!
Disclaimer
WSP Parliamentary Services Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of WSP Group plc. As the agent of one or more of its clients, it is receiving and acknowledging confidential information related to a potentially prospective engagement. Learn more at here.
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