Executive Estimator

About Gleeds

Gleeds is a prominent global consultancy specializing in property and construction, independent since 1875. With a focus on sustainability and climate change, the company has substantial experience in the energy sector, particularly in projects related to Solar, Hydrogen, Nuclear, Renewables, and Defence. Gleeds operates worldwide with commitment to innovation and delivering value-driven, transformative projects.

Role Overview

We are seeking an Executive Estimator to join our expanding Estimating team at Gleeds Energy in Derby. This permanent, full-time role includes flexible working arrangements encompassing time at the office, client sites, and home. The appointed individual will take on the position of Estimating Manager within an integrated client team responsible for large-scale infrastructure programmes.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the estimating function for major infrastructure projects, defining strategy, resource needs, and priorities.
• Coordinate and oversee estimate preparations across multiple projects, tailoring approaches according to project requirements and stage.
• Establish and maintain estimating governance, including standards, templates, approval pathways, and transparent documentation of assumptions, risks, and contingencies.
• Provide independent review and assurance of project and supplier cost estimates, reporting findings to senior stakeholders.
• Collaborate closely with client teams including project management, engineering, planning, risk, commercial, and finance to synchronize scope, scheduling, risk, and cost data.
• Organize and lead estimate review meetings, assurance panels, and governance submissions with clear communication of uncertainties and cost drivers.
• Manage estimating team workload, performance, and development, supporting coaching and succession planning efforts.
• Enhance estimating capabilities through benchmarking, cost intelligence, and applying lessons learned to improve accuracy and consistency.
• Support programme controls, change management, investment evaluations, business case development, and commercial decision-making by delivering prompt, evidence-based cost advice.
• Maintain positive client relations and ensure secure handling of programme information according to confidentiality and management standards.

Candidate Profile

• Substantial experience in estimating or cost management on complex projects such as engineering, infrastructure, nuclear, defence, or regulated manufacturing programmes.
• Proven leadership experience managing estimating teams and assuring outputs across multiple concurrent projects.
• Expertise in first-principles estimating, cost assurance, and familiarity with classification, uncertainty metrics, risk quantification, escalation, and benchmarking practices.
• Strong judgement to critically evaluate incomplete data, provide proportional recommendations, and effectively communicate nuanced cost issues to senior decision-makers.
• Excellent leadership, stakeholder engagement, and communication skills with ability to foster trust within multi-disciplinary teams.
• Degree or equivalent professional experience in cost management, quantity surveying, engineering, construction law, or similar fields.
• Chartered or advanced professional membership of bodies such as RICS, ACostE, APM, CIOB, or CICES preferred.
• Capability to obtain necessary security clearances and meet client onboarding, identity verification, site access, and security requirements.

What We Offer

• Defined pathways for career growth, training, and professional qualifications.
• Networking opportunities to enhance industry understanding and personal brand.
• Attractive holiday allowance with options to purchase additional days.
• Competitive salary with performance-related reviews.
• Employee Assistance Programmes focused on health and wellbeing.
• Global travel scholarships for international experience.
• Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance.
• Community volunteering opportunities.
• Strong support from central teams with certification as a Great Place to Work.

Additional Information

This position is based in Derby with a mix of onsite and remote work. Applicants must be able to meet clearance and security protocols relevant to the programme. Gleeds is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, providing accessible work environments and support for reasonable adjustments.