Senior Cost Manager – Relocation from UK and Australia 

Location: Madison, Wisconsin
Salary: $125,000-$150,000 Plus Bonus

We are representing a rapidly expanding Global Building Consultancy with a growing presence across the Midwest, including Madison, Wisconsin. The firm has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven largely by its success in the data center and mission-critical sector. A recent strategic partnership with a leading global consultancy has further strengthened its technical capability, market reach, and long-term growth trajectory.

The business provides independent cost management and project delivery services to a portfolio of Fortune 500 and hyperscale clients, with a heavy emphasis on data centers, critical infrastructure, and technology-led real estate. Their culture mirrors that of their tech clients; collaborative, fast-moving, and pragmatic, offering real responsibility, clear progression, and exposure to complex, high-value projects from day one.

The Role - Senior Cost Manager

Based in Madison, Wisconsin, this role offers the opportunity to take a lead position on large-scale data center developments, supporting some of the most advanced and operationally critical facilities in the US. You’ll be involved across the full project lifecycle, working closely with developers, operators, contractors, and internal leadership to deliver robust cost control on fast-paced, technically complex projects.

This is an ideal role for a Cost Manager who wants to specialize further in data centers, take ownership of major programs, and be part of a growing Midwest team with strong backing, long-term pipeline, and genuine career progression, not just a title bump and more spreadsheets.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Lead the delivery of large-scale projects, ensuring cost management services are delivered to the highest standard.
• Prepare and manage Order of Cost Estimates, Cost Plans, Tender Documents, and Contract Documents in line with company protocols.
• Chair and lead cost meetings, including all associated reporting and administration.
• Act as the main point of contact with contractors and stakeholders on:
  • Cost reports
  • Planned vs. actual spend
  • Variations and change management
  • Dispute resolution
• Use and maintain internal platforms to manage and communicate cost information efficiently.
• Work closely with Project Managers during construction to review:
  • Provisional sum schedules
  • Contractor Design Portion (CDP) schedules
• Carry out detailed monthly cost assessments, supporting the preparation and agreement of final accounts.
• Review and manage change requests, providing guidance and mentorship to junior team members.
• Produce and present clear, high-quality monthly reports for senior stakeholders and clients.

What They’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction, Quantity Surveying, or a related field.
• 6+ years’ experience in cost management on complex infrastructure or large-scale construction projects.
• Strong understanding of construction, engineering, and architectural principles.
• Proven experience leading projects and mentoring junior staff.
• Solid pre- and post-contract experience.
• US citizenship, existing/transferable right to work in the US, or eligibility for an E-2 or E-3 visa.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (yes, Excel still matters).

Why This Role?

• Major data center projects (big budgets, real responsibility).
• A growing Madison presence with clear progression opportunities.
• A consultancy that’s scaling fast, meaning your career can scale with it.
• Leadership that’s involved, accessible, and not hiding behind layers of red tape.