Cost Control Manager

Role Overview

Cost Control Manager at Nova Construction, a UAE-based general contracting company specializing in branded residences and major construction projects.

Company Overview

Nova International General Contracting is a newly established UAE-based company dedicated to delivering excellence in general contracting and construction, specializing in executing branded residences. The company is committed to the highest standards of quality, innovation, and client satisfaction, with ambition to grow as a trusted partner and deliver landmark developments that shape the future of the UAE's built environment.

Role Purpose

The Cost Control Manager is a senior role responsible for establishing, implementing, and overseeing the cost control framework across projects within the contracting company. This role ensures that project budgets, forecasts, expenditures, and financial risks are accurately monitored and controlled to support profitable project delivery and long-term organizational growth.

Key Responsibilities

Cost Control Strategy & Leadership

• Develop and implement company-wide cost control systems, procedures, and best practices.
• Lead the cost control team across multiple projects, ensuring consistency, accuracy, and compliance.
• Provide strategic guidance to senior management on cost trends, risks, and financial performance.
• Establish KPIs, benchmarks, and cost standards aligned with industry norms and company objectives.
• Provide strategic insights and recommendations to executive management on financial performance, cost trends, and business risks.
• Build and maintain a high-performance culture, including mentoring, succession planning, and capability development.

Budgeting, Forecasting & Financial Planning

• Oversee preparation of project budgets, baseline cost plans, and cash flow forecasts.
• Review and validate cost estimates, BOQs, and tender submissions for accuracy, risk coverage, and completeness.
• Monitor budget performance and lead monthly and quarterly cost review meetings with project teams.
• Develop long-term financial forecasts and scenario analyses for executive decision-making.
• Ensure alignment between project financial plans and corporate financial objectives.

Project Cost Monitoring & Reporting

• Ensure accurate tracking of project expenditures, commitments, and cost-to-complete values.
• Review and approve cost reports, variance analyses, and financial dashboards.
• Identify cost overruns, inefficiencies, and deviations, and recommend corrective actions.
• Maintain oversight of WIP (Work in Progress), earned value analysis including CPI, SPI, EAC, and ETC, productivity metrics, and financial health indicators.

Change Management & Claims Support

• Oversee evaluation of variations, change orders, and claims from a cost perspective.
• Ensure proper documentation, justification, and cost impact assessment for all changes.
• Collaborate with contract administrators, QS teams, and planners to support claims preparation.
• Provide expert input during negotiations with clients, consultants, and subcontractors.

Procurement & Subcontractor Cost Oversight

• Review procurement strategies, supplier quotations, and subcontractor cost proposals.
• Ensure alignment between procurement costs, project budgets, and contractual obligations.
• Monitor material price trends, market fluctuations, and supply chain risks.
• Support value engineering initiatives to optimize cost efficiency without compromising quality.

Systems, Processes & Continuous Improvement

• Lead implementation and optimization of ERP and cost management software.
• Standardize cost control templates, reporting formats, and documentation procedures.
• Conduct training and mentoring programs for cost engineers and junior staff.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance cost accuracy and operational efficiency.

Executive Reporting & Stakeholder Communication

• Prepare high-level cost summaries, executive dashboards, and board-level presentations.
• Communicate financial risks, opportunities, and recommendations to senior leadership.
• Coordinate with finance, commercial, planning, and project management teams to ensure alignment.
• Represent the cost control function in internal and external audits.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Finance, or related field.
• Master's degree (MBA, MSc in Project Management, or similar) is an advantage.
• Professional certifications such as RICS, CMA, PMP, CCP (Certified Cost Professional) are highly preferred.
• Minimum 20 years of progressive experience in cost control within a contracting or construction company.
• Proven track record managing cost control for large-scale, complex projects including infrastructure, high-rise, industrial, or MEP.
• Extensive experience in budgeting, forecasting, cost reporting, and financial risk management.
• Strong background in ERP systems, cost management tools, and project controls methodologies.

Skills & Competencies

• Exceptional analytical and financial modeling skills.
• Deep understanding of construction methodologies, project execution, and commercial frameworks.
• Strong leadership, team management, and mentoring abilities.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• High proficiency in MS Excel, ERP systems, and cost control software such as Primavera, SAP, and Oracle.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to make strategic decisions under pressure.
• High level of integrity, accuracy, and attention to detail.

Additional Information

Nova International General Contracting is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees are treated fairly and with respect. Employment decisions are made based on qualifications, experience, and business requirements, without unlawful discrimination, and in accordance with applicable UAE labor and employment laws. All hiring and employment is subject to compliance with UAE regulatory requirements, including those relating to work permits and residency visas, where applicable.