Associate Director - Cost Manager / Quantity Surveyor - Life Sciences Construction

Turner & Townsend • $120K — $145K *
US-AnywhereRemote in United States
Real Estate & Construction
8 - 10 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Cost Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field.
  • Graduate degree in Quantity Surveying, Cost Management, Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred.
  • 8+ years of experience in cost management, quantity surveying, or project controls within construction.
  • Experience with life sciences, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and complex technical projects.
  • Proven leadership ability managing cost management teams and client relationships.
  • Strong knowledge of cost planning, estimating, and commercial controls.
  • RICS accreditation or equivalent professional certification preferred.

Responsibilities

  • Lead cost management teams to achieve project objectives and client expectations.
  • Serve as primary commercial contact for clients and project stakeholders throughout project phases.
  • Maintain effective communication with clients and teams across multiple projects.
  • Oversee quantity surveying, cost controls, budgeting, forecasting, and change management activities.
  • Support strategic management of Cost Management and Project Controls services in key sectors.
  • Identify opportunities for process improvements in cost management practices.
  • Drive excellence in leadership, client service, and commercial performance.

Benefits

  • Opportunities for professional growth and development.
  • Access to comprehensive health benefits.
  • Flexible working arrangements depending on client needs.
  • Participation in industry networking events.
  • Support for continuous improvement and innovation in service delivery.
Full Job Description
Job Description

Turner & Townsend is seeking an experienced Associate Director, Cost Management to lead the delivery of cost management services across large-scale life sciences, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, laboratory, research, and advanced manufacturing construction programs. This individual will provide commercial leadership throughout the project lifecycle, oversee key stakeholder relationships, and ensure successful delivery of cost management services across complex capital projects.

The ideal candidate will be an experienced client-facing leader with strong quantity surveying, cost management, and commercial controls expertise. This role requires exceptional communication skills, the ability to lead high-performing teams, and experience delivering projects within highly regulated, technical construction environments.

Responsibilities:
  • Lead cost management teams, ensuring successful delivery of project objectives and client expectations.
  • Serve as the primary commercial point of contact for clients, project stakeholders, consultants, and contractors throughout all project phases.
  • Maintain excellent communication with clients and project teams across multiple projects and programs.
  • Perform and oversee quantity surveying, cost controls, budgeting, forecasting, and change management activities throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Communicate effectively with owners, contractors, consultants, and other stakeholders, ensuring successful coordination within the overall construction process.
  • Support the strategic and operational management of Cost Management and Project Controls services across life sciences and advanced manufacturing portfolios.
  • Act as the primary source for reporting overall commercial status, risks, opportunities, and project performance.
  • Drive Turner & Townsend best practices across all stages of project and program delivery.
  • Identify opportunities to improve cost management procedures, processes, templates, and reporting tools.
  • Conduct staff performance reviews and contribute to employee development initiatives.
  • Establish clear objectives and strategic direction for project teams.
  • Identify, coach, and mentor talent to support professional growth and succession planning.
  • Lead and develop high-performing cost management teams.
  • Deliver excellence in leadership, client service, and commercial performance.
  • Manage commission financial performance, including fee forecasts, resource planning, and profitability reporting.
  • Develop risk mitigation strategies and monitor key performance indicators to support project and business goals.
  • Implement and maintain company delivery methodologies, systems, and best practices.
  • Support quality assurance activities and internal business management processes.
  • Maintain a strong understanding of market conditions, construction trends, and industry best practices.
  • Advise clients on procurement strategies, contract administration, capital planning, and commercial risk management.
  • Build and strengthen relationships with clients, contractors, consultants, and internal teams.
  • Participate in leadership meetings and prepare executive-level presentations and reports.
  • Provide regular updates regarding project performance, staffing, commercial status, and strategic initiatives.
  • Support business development efforts, proposal preparation, interviews, and client pursuits.
  • Ensure lessons learned and benchmarking information are captured and shared across the business.
  • Attend relevant industry and networking events.
  • Act as a role model who promotes collaboration, innovation, and excellence in service delivery.
  • SOX control responsibilities may be part of this role, which are to be adhered to where applicable.


Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Cost Management, Engineering, Architecture, or a related construction discipline.
  • Graduate degree in Quantity Surveying, Cost Management, Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field is preferred.
  • Minimum 8+ years of experience in cost management, quantity surveying, commercial management, or project controls within the construction industry.
  • Significant experience supporting life sciences, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, laboratory, research & development, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, or other highly technical construction projects.
  • Demonstrated experience leading cost management teams and managing client relationships on complex capital programs.
  • Strong knowledge of cost planning, estimating, procurement, change management, contract administration, and commercial controls.
  • Experience developing and reviewing budgets, forecasts, cost reports, cash flow analyses, and final accounts.
  • Construction consultancy experience is strongly preferred.
  • RICS accreditation or equivalent professional certification is preferred.
  • Excellent leadership, presentation, organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects, stakeholders, and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Proven ability to develop teams, drive continuous improvement, and deliver exceptional client service.


Additional Information

*On-site presence and requirements may change depending on our client's needs.

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

Keep up to date with the latest from Turner & Townsend: - **Read Careers Blog**: Gain insights from experts and stay informed about the latest company news and industry trends. - **Job Alert Emails**: Personalize your subscription to receive job alerts and insider tips tailored to your preferences. Discover exciting and rewarding opportunities that await at Turner & Townsend. Turner & Townsend is not just a place to work—it's a place where careers are made, innovation thrives, and opportunities abound. Join the team and be part of shaping the future of the industry.
Learn more about Turner & Townsend
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Real Estate & Construction
* Ladders Estimates

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