Cost Assurance Consultant

Cost Assurance Consultant

Location: Birmingham, West Midlands, United Kingdom

Employment type: Permanent | Full‑time | Hybrid working

Gleeds is a leading global property and construction consultancy. Independent since 1875, we deliver award‑winning projects around the world and are a certified “Great Place to Work” for the third year in a row.

We are seeking a Cost Consultant / Cost Assurance specialist to join our UK infrastructure team. The role supports major rail, aviation, highways, water and utilities projects, delivering cost management and assurance from a consultant or surveyor level.

• Provide commercial and financial assurance, verifying project costs across various sectors.
• Analyse contractor accounting and commercial systems/processes.
• Develop risk‑based audit and verification plans.
• Conduct detailed audits and cost analyses.
• Deliver high‑quality reports and working papers with clear insights.
• Interpret contractual frameworks and assess cost‑related compliance.
• Engage with contractors, clients, and regulatory bodies.
• Support the development of forensic technology and analysis tools.
• Assist the Head of Cost Assurance and senior team members in project delivery and function.

• Experience with NEC3/4 contracts (preferred).
• Background in corporate risk, audit functions, or cost verification.
• Proven expertise in financial reviews and audits for major infrastructure/construction projects (preferred).
• Strong communication skills (both written and verbal).
• Analytical mindset with a methodical approach to work.
• Organised and adaptable, able to manage changing priorities.
• Strong problem‑solving, negotiation, and numeracy skills.
• Proficiency in MS Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint.
• Knowledge of data analysis tools (e.g., Power BI, DAX) is desirable.
• Familiarity with contract management & administration systems.
• Ability to absorb complex information and work independently or as part of a team.

• Degree qualified (or equivalent) in a relevant subject (quantity surveying, accounting, audit, or data analysis).
• Qualified, or working towards an appropriate professional body membership or equivalent (e.g., MRICS, ACA, ACCA, CIMA).

• Exposure to major UK infrastructure projects.
• Opportunities to broaden skills, experience, and knowledge across a range of sectors.
• Support towards professional development, including professional qualifications.
• Career progression opportunities, with clear and structured pathways.
• Being part of a certified “Great Place to Work” where employee wellbeing is a priority.
• A hybrid working pattern with flexible options to support work‑life balance.
• Comprehensive flexible benefits offering alongside a competitive salary.