Senior Manager – Cost Estimation

Modon is an international holding company, headquartered in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. We are at the forefront of urban innovation, creating iconic designs and experiences that continually surpass expectations. Our primary business sectors include real estate, hospitality, asset management, investments, events, and tourism. Our goal is to deliver long‑term, sustainable value, laying the foundations for intelligent, connected living.

Responsible for leading the cost estimation and budgeting processes for large‑scale real estate projects. This role ensures accurate cost forecasts, aligns project budgets with strategic goals, and supports financial decision‑making. The Senior Manager also manages cost risk, provides insights for project feasibility, and optimizes resource allocation.

• Develop and implement cost estimation frameworks for real estate projects, ensuring accuracy and alignment with organizational goals.
• Oversee the preparation of cost estimates during all project phases, from pre‑concept to execution.
• Continuously improve cost estimation processes to ensure efficiency and accuracy across all projects.

• Collaborate with project management teams to develop detailed project budgets based on cost estimates.
• Provide cost forecasts and financial insights to support decision‑making during project planning and execution.
• Ensure budget adherence by monitoring costs throughout the project lifecycle and adjusting estimates as needed.

• Identify potential cost risks, including market volatility, material costs, and unforeseen project changes.
• Develop strategies to mitigate cost risks, including contingency planning and value engineering.
• Regularly update risk assessments based on project progress and market conditions.

• Work with procurement teams to evaluate vendor and contractor bids, ensuring alignment with cost estimates.
• Ensure that contractor pricing aligns with project budgets and expected quality standards.
• Monitor contractor performance to ensure cost control and adherence to budget agreements.

• Prepare and present detailed cost reports, forecasts, and insights.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure transparency and alignment.
• Lead cost estimation meetings, addressing queries and ensuring all parties understand financial expectations.

• Analyze historical data and market trends to refine cost estimation methodologies.
• Implement process improvements to enhance the accuracy, efficiency, and reliability of cost estimates.
• Benchmark costs against industry standards and update estimation models accordingly.

• A bachelor’s degree in quantity surveying, civil engineering, construction management, or a related field.
• A master’s degree such as an MBA is desired.
• Relevant professional certifications such as a PMP / MRICS are preferred.

• At least 10 - 13 years of experience in cost estimation
  , budgeting
  , or quantity surveying within the real estate or construction industry.

• Advanced proficiency in preparing detailed cost estimates for complex real estate projects.
• Ability to develop accurate, comprehensive cost plans for all project phases, from concept to delivery.

• Strong ability to analyze project data, market trends, and pricing to refine cost estimates.
• Competence in financial forecasting, budgeting, and value engineering to optimize project cost structures.

• Skilled in identifying potential cost risks and implementing strategies to mitigate them.
• Strong problem‑solving skills to address cost overruns and unforeseen financial challenges.

• Ability to work closely with procurement teams and vendors to align contract pricing with project budgets. Skilled in evaluating contractor bids and negotiating cost‑effective solutions.

• Strong presentation and reporting skills, capable of providing cost insights to senior leadership.
• Proficient in engaging with cross‑functional teams to align cost estimation with broader project goals.

• High attention to detail in managing cost data, ensuring accuracy and precision in estimates.
• Ability to drive continuous improvement in cost estimation processes and methodologies.