Cost Manager

Fortiva has partnered with a well-established Owner’s Representative to appoint a Cost Manager in New York City, supporting a high-profile pipeline of work across multiple sectors.

While the business delivers projects spanning tenant improvement, refurbishment, corporate office fit-outs, as well as infrastructure, mission-critical, and entertainment, this role is firmly anchored in hospitality led, ground-up development. Early-stage cost planning, feasibility, and preconstruction leadership are essential to success in this position.

This is an opportunity for a commercially sharp professional who understands how cost decisions made early shape the success of complex hospitality projects.

As Cost Manager, you’ll take ownership of budgets from concept through delivery, working closely with developers, designers, and construction teams to establish cost certainty before a shovel hits the ground.

• Developing detailed estimates, cost plans, cash flows, and risk registers throughout preconstruction and delivery
• Leading value engineering and procurement strategy discussions during early design stages
• Preparing RFPs, benchmarking analysis, and cost reports for client review
• Managing requisitions, lien waivers, and reimbursement processes
• Reviewing contracts regularly to ensure commercial performance
• Tracking change control and maintaining accurate, transparent cost reporting
• Mentoring junior team members and reviewing technical documentation
• Managing multiple projects simultaneously or leading a large, complex flagship project
• Presenting clearly and confidently to clients, stakeholders, and project teams
• Applying strong knowledge of NYC market rates and construction economics to minimize late-stage adjustments

• 3+ years’ experience in cost management or quantity surveying
• Demonstrable experience on ground-up construction projects (essential)
• Hospitality project experience at preconstruction stage strongly preferred
• Strong understanding of construction cost structures, procurement, and financial controls
• Proven ability to work collaboratively with developers, GCs, and design teams
• Experience managing cost risk, change orders, and complex budgets
• Detail-oriented with the confidence to challenge assumptions and advise clients
• Strong communication and relationship-building skills
• Professional certifications (RICS, AACE, or similar) are advantageous

If this sounds like a fit, send your resume to haydn and we’ll set up an informal virtual chat to discuss the role in more detail.