Head of Construction Cost Management – UK & Europe

Manchester, Lancashire
Naylor’s Equestrian Llp

Responsible to: Associate Director of Store Construction UK & Europe

Department: Property

Location: Bury, Manchester (with UK & European travel)

Contract Type: 40 Hours Per Week

Role Overview: As the Head of Construction Cost Management for JD Sports across all group Fascia’s in the UK & Europe, you will be responsible for leading the strategic planning, management, and control of all construction-related costs within the Projects Team.

You will ensure that all new store builds, refurbishments, relocations, and property projects are delivered on budget, with maximum value achieved for every investment. Working closely with project managers, external quantity surveyors, contractors, and suppliers, you will set the cost management strategy, negotiate commercial agreements, and provide leadership on all financial aspects of construction projects.
This role requires a strong commercial mindset, exceptional leadership skills, and an ability to navigate the fast-paced, high-volume retail environment in which JD Sports operates.

Key Duties/Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement the cost management strategy for all construction projects in the UK & Europe.
• Set benchmarks and cost models to ensure accurate forecasting and financial control.
• Lead, mentor, and manage the internal cost management team in all territories, driving best practice and professional development.

Cost Control & Reporting

• Oversee the preparation of budgets, cost plans, and financial reports for all projects.
• Monitor and report on project expenditure to ensure alignment with approved budgets.
• Provide detailed cost analysis, variance reporting, and recommendations to senior stakeholders.

Procurement & Contract Management

• Lead tender processes and negotiate contracts with contractors, suppliers, and consultants to achieve best value.
• Maintain and update preferred supplier frameworks to ensure competitive pricing and quality service.
• Oversee contract administration, ensuring compliance with JD Sports’ standards and legal requirements.

Stakeholder Collaboration

• Work closely with Project Managers, Design, Store Development, and Finance teams to ensure projects are commercially viable.
• Liaise with senior leadership to present cost forecasts, risk assessments, and budget recommendations.
• Represent JD Sports in commercial negotiations and key supplier meetings.

Risk & Value Management

• Identify and mitigate financial risks across all projects.
• Drive value engineering initiatives to optimise project outcomes without compromising quality.
• Ensure all cost management processes comply with local regulations, building codes, and company policies.

Skills & Experience

Essential

• Extensive experience in construction cost management, ideally within the retail, commercial, or property development sector.
• Strong background in UK and European cost control, procurement, and contract negotiation.
• Proven track record in leading multi-site, multi-country projects.
• MRICS qualified (or equivalent) in Quantity Surveying or Cost Management.
• Strong commercial acumen and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
• Willingness to travel across the UK & Europe as required.

Desirable

• Experience in high-volume retail rollout programmes.
• Knowledge of European construction legislation and local market cost variations.
• Multilingual abilities (advantageous but not essential).

Key Attributes

• Strategic thinker with a hands-on approach to problem solving.
• Influential leader who inspires confidence and trust.
• Detail-oriented with a focus on delivering value and efficiency.
• Resilient, adaptable, and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment.