Associate Director, Cost Management

Turner & Townsend$120K — $170K *
Real Estate & Construction
11 - 15 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 12+ years of experience in commercial/cost management or contract management.
  • Proven track record on large-scale capital projects over $100 million.
  • Strong understanding of commercial governance and contract administration principles.
  • Experience in stakeholder communication and presenting financial data at senior levels.
  • Exceptional relationship management and negotiation skills.
  • Ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary environments and complex client settings.
  • Analytical mindset with proactive approach to problem-solving.

Responsibilities

  • Provide expert commercial management advice throughout project lifecycle.
  • Manage project budgets to ensure alignment with objectives and governance.
  • Produce and present financial and commercial reports for stakeholder decision-making.
  • Lead change control to document and evaluate contractual changes.
  • Support commercial risk management and ensure compliance with contracts.
  • Contribute to resolving contract claims through careful analysis.
  • Act as a key liaison between the firm and public-sector clients, enhancing communication.

Benefits

  • 100% covered health and dental benefits including paramedical services.
  • Health spending account for additional expenses.
  • RRSP with company matching.
  • Annual learning and development budget and access to online learning.
  • Coverage for one professional membership fee relevant to the role.
  • Flexible work options promoting work-life balance.
  • Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusivity in the workplace.
Full Job Description
We are seeking an experienced Associate Director, Cost Management to join our Ottawa team and provide commercial leadership to a major public-sector client. This role is ideal for a highly accomplished commercial or cost management professional with extensive experience delivering large-scale capital projects within the real estate, infrastructure, or public-sector environment. You will serve as a trusted advisor, providing strategic commercial guidance, supporting governance activities, managing commercial risk, and ensuring effective contract administration across complex project portfolios. This position requires a minimum of four days per week onsite at the client's office. Onsite requirements may change based on client needs. As Associate Director, Cost Management, you will provide senior-level commercial leadership and advisory services to support the successful delivery of major capital projects and programs. Key responsibilities include: - Providing specialist commercial management advice and guidance to our public-sector client throughout the project lifecycle. - Managing project budgets and overseeing commercial performance to ensure alignment with project objectives, governance requirements, and contractual obligations. - Producing, reviewing, and presenting financial and commercial reports to support effective decision-making and stakeholder governance. - Leading change control activities in accordance with contractual frameworks, including tracking and documenting changes, administering early warning provisions, evaluating commercial impacts, and negotiating contractual change. - Supporting the management and mitigation of commercial risks while ensuring contractual compliance across project activities. - Contributing to the defence and resolution of contract claims through the review and analysis of financial and commercial information. - Acting as a key interface between Turner & Townsend and the client, fostering strong relationships and ensuring effective communication across stakeholder groups. - Supporting the review, enhancement, and implementation of commercial processes to improve efficiency, consistency, and operational effectiveness. - Building and maintaining trusted relationships with clients, partners, and key stakeholders while identifying opportunities to expand and strengthen client engagement. - Mentoring and supporting the development of junior team members, promoting technical excellence and knowledge sharing. - Supporting broader business management, operational priorities, and strategic growth initiatives within the Cost Management practice. Qualifications - Minimum 12 years of post-graduate experience in commercial management, cost management, contract management, or a related discipline. - Demonstrated experience managing the commercial aspects of complex, large-scale, multi-disciplinary real estate or capital projects. - Proven experience providing commercial oversight on projects with values exceeding $100 million. - Strong understanding of commercial governance, contract administration, cost control, change management, and risk management principles. - Experience preparing and presenting commercial and financial information to senior stakeholders and project leadership teams. - Exceptional relationship management, communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills. - Proven ability to work collaboratively within complex client environments and multidisciplinary project teams. - Strong analytical capabilities and attention to detail with a proactive, solutions-oriented approach. - Commitment to delivering exceptional client service and high-quality outcomes. Education & Professional Accreditation - A recognized degree in Quantity Surveying, Engineering, Construction Management, Commercial Management, Project Management, or a related discipline. - Professional accreditation such as: - MRICS - PQS - CEC - or equivalent professional designation (International qualifications may require Canadian equivalency verification.) Security Requirements - Must possess, or be eligible to obtain, Government of Canada Reliability Status at a minimum. - Existing Government of Canada Secret Clearance is considered a strong asset. Preferred Qualifications - Experience supporting federal government or broader public-sector capital programs. - Demonstrated leadership experience within large project environments. - Experience implementing commercial governance frameworks and process improvement initiatives. - Familiarity with commercial and project management platforms such as CostX, Aconex, Unifier, or similar systems. Additional Information What's in it for you... - 100% covered health and dental benefits for you and your dependents (including paramedical services) - Health spending account, to top up expenses not covered in the benefits program - RRSP option with company matching - Annual learning and development budget - Access to a range of online learning tools, and support for career development and growth - Coverage of one professional membership or license fee per year, if directly related to your role - We believe in work-life balance, so you can recharge and take care of what matters most with vacation, flex and sick days - A flexible, hybrid work approach that allows colleagues to find balance between their professional and personal lives - Commitment to creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive culture that promotes a sense of belonging The base salary range for this full-time role is $120,000 - $170,000 per year. Ranges are determined by role and level and represent a good faith effort to provide a fair and equitable salary. This range is a reflection of base salary only, not of a total compensation package. Please note Turner & Townsend reserves the right to pay more or less than the posted range, depending on candidate's experience and qualifications.

About Turner & Townsend

Turner & Townsend Careers

Joining Turner & Townsend offers a unique opportunity to contribute to some of the most exciting projects worldwide. As a global leader in professional services, Turner & Townsend is at the forefront of transforming the industry through expertise, innovation, and leadership.

Explore Job Opportunities

Turner & Townsend is constantly seeking skilled professionals eager to drive innovation and lead industry standards. With a variety of job opportunities available, candidates can find positions that match their skills and career aspirations. Explore employment options that span across critical sectors such as construction, project management, and consultancy.

Experience Professional Growth

Turner & Townsend is committed to the professional growth and continuous development of its team members. The company supports career advancement through robust training programs, including leadership development and diversity training, ensuring every team member has the tools and knowledge to succeed.

Internship Programs

For those starting their career journey, Turner & Townsend offers internship programs that provide a rich learning environment. Interns gain hands-on experience, working alongside seasoned professionals and contributing to impactful projects. These internships are a gateway to full-time employment and a flourishing career within the company.

Cultivating a Diverse and Inclusive Culture

Turner & Townsend prides itself on fostering an inclusive culture where diversity is celebrated. The company believes that a diverse workforce enhances creativity and drives innovation. Employees from various backgrounds are encouraged to share their unique perspectives, promoting a collaborative and supportive workplace.

Benefits and Employee Wellbeing

Understanding the importance of a work-life balance, Turner & Townsend offers comprehensive benefits designed to support the wellbeing of its team. Benefits include health care, flexible working conditions, and competitive retirement plans, all aimed at enhancing the quality of life for employees.

Join the Team

Turner & Townsend is hiring! Search open positions that align with your professional skills and interests. The company is looking for passionate, curious, and solution-driven team players. Prepare your resume, sharpen your interview skills, and get ready to join a team where your contributions will be valued and your career will flourish.

Networking and Career Development

Turner & Townsend encourages continuous networking and professional development. By participating in industry conferences and company-hosted events, employees can build valuable relationships and stay current with industry trends.

Stay Connected

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