Director, Cost Management

About the Role

The Director of Project Controls is a senior leadership role critical in managing and controlling project schedules, budgets, and risks throughout the project lifecycle. This position requires a proactive approach, extensive experience in project management—specifically in controls—and a proven track record of success. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong analytical skills, attention to detail, excellent communication, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. Deep knowledge of construction techniques, technology, and real estate markets is essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor team members, serving as Team Lead for complex projects while driving innovation to enhance service quality.
• Oversee client service for projects, navigating difficult conversations and managing fiduciary responsibilities for JLL and clients.
• Develop and implement P&L team strategy aligned with PDS business objectives, including best practices to strengthen firm capabilities.
• Attend industry conferences to build reputation, influence public image, and represent JLL as a content contributor.
• Source and cultivate client relationships, lead pursuit strategies, and secure new business.
• Maintain advanced subject-matter expertise on industry-specific requirements and their impact on design and construction.
• Obtain and maintain industry-recognized credentials and certifications.
• Manage client and on-account teams’ expectations through clear, proactive communication.
• Stay informed on PDS process changes, systems, and reporting; contribute to strategic client initiatives.
• Adhere to revenue generation requirements for the PDS business.
• Lead project controls for multiple engagements, including large-scale complex projects.
• Partner with teams to execute projects through all stages, presenting to key stakeholders.
• Prepare detailed construction cost estimates from conceptual design to final documents, leveraging local market pricing data.
• Provide value engineering services and design option reviews.
• Identify, analyze, and mitigate project risks impacting deliverables, timelines, or budgets.
• Coordinate with stakeholders to gather data and provide accurate project status updates.
• Prepare bid analyses, reconcile with contractors/subcontractors, and generate progress reports for stakeholders.
• Conduct project audits to identify deviations from established control processes.
• Review change orders and support change management, assessing scope alignment.
• Implement lessons learned and best practices on future projects.
• Stay current with industry trends and apply expertise to support the global community of practice.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (preference for Quantity Surveying, Architecture, Engineering, or Construction Management).
• Ability to generate AACE level 1-5 cost evaluations, work conceptually, and qualify unknowns using estimating software and benchmarking tools.
• Conceptual knowledge of project cost management theories, practices, and procedures.
• Demonstrated competence in structured work assignments and solving routine/standard problems.
• Ability to follow guidance from senior-level roles.

Preferred Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience as an Estimator, Cost Manager, or similar role.
• Proficiency in Cost-X, On-Screen Takeoff, or other estimating software.
• Professional certification in project management (e.g., AACE, RICS).
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Familiarity with procurement and tendering processes.

Schedule

Travel requirement: approximately 25%, though this may fluctuate.