As Senior Cost Intelligence Manager, you ll take the lead in transitioning our cost intelligence function from an outsourced model to a robust in-house team over the next 2 to 3 years. You ll plan the transition, recruit your team and manage the changes to contracts. You ll be accountable for managing cost estimation, benchmarking, and supporting our Asset Management and Capital Delivery teams. Your work will directly impact key business decisions and ensure we meet regulatory requirements while maximising value for our customers Responsibilities will include:

• Develop and execute a business case to in-source our cost intelligence function, including systems and processes.
• Lead the creation and mobilisation of a high-performing team to deliver Cost Estimating and Benchmarking functions.
• Ensure the accuracy and reliability of cost estimates and benchmarking data, supporting strategic programmes and Price Reviews (e.g. PR29).
• Advise on cost modelling, working closely with Commercial, Asset Management, and Capital Delivery teams.
• Oversee the acquisition and implementation of systems to support cost modelling and benchmarking, collaborating with Digital and Procurement teams.
• Mitigate risks by challenging cost estimates from suppliers and delivery teams, ensuring realistic and robust asset management estimates.
• Manage the residual outsourced contract work for large, complex investments and peak demands for Price Reviews.
• Work collaboratively with various teams to optimise processes and drive efficiency
  
  A strategic thinker with the ability to create and implement plans that align with Southern Water's goals.
• Expertise in cost management, estimating, and benchmarking, with experience working with internal teams and supply chain partners.
• Proven ability to lead and influence teams, both directly and indirectly, ensuring the successful delivery of business plans.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to persuade and influence at senior levels.
• Experience in establishing new teams from scratch, including setting up structures and ways of working.
• A deep understanding of regulatory frameworks and business case development.
• Highly numerate with a strong grasp of commercial arrangements and cost-benefit analysis.
• Strong leadership skills to drive performance and create a culture focused on cost efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction., Degree or equivalent qualification in a numerate discipline.
• MRICS or a similar professional qualification.
• Proven contract management experience.
• Substantial experience in construction, water, or infrastructure sectors.
• Ideally, experience in establishing teams and transferring staff between in-house and outsourced models.
  
  This role will be full time Monday to Friday 37 hours a week.
Southern Water operate a hybrid approach to working between our Durrington office and home. We are offering a competitive salary based on skills and experience as well as other benefits including:
• Company and performance-related bonus
• Generous pension up to 11% company contribution
• 25 days annual leave
• Life assurance equal to 4x salary
• Salary sacrifice electric car scheme (after 6 months service)
• Health Cash Plan
• Full funded eye tests
• Two paid volunteering days a year
• Occupational health service
• Discounts with over 800 popular retailers
• Digital GP service