Director | Cost Management | Chicago

Salary: Up to $195,000 + Bonus + Benefits

We’re partnering with a leading global Owner’s Representative and Cost Management consultancy to appoint a Director in their Chicago office. Recognized worldwide for delivering complex real estate and infrastructure programs, the firm is seeking an established leader to drive client strategy, team performance, and continued business growth.

About the Role

As Director, you’ll provide strategic leadership across major projects and client portfolios, with responsibility for commercial performance, service quality, and long-term relationships. You’ll lead senior teams, shape market strategy, and play a central role in expanding the consultancy’s presence across Chicago and the wider region.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide executive oversight of cost management services across high-profile, large-scale developments.
• Lead strategic cost planning, estimating, budgeting, procurement, and contract administration across multiple portfolios.
• Act as a trusted advisor to senior client stakeholders on commercial strategy, risk, governance, and project performance.
• Drive business development through client engagement, market positioning, proposals, and presentations.
• Set performance standards and provide leadership, coaching, and succession planning for cost management teams.
• Maintain accountability for portfolio profitability, resource planning, quality assurance, and delivery excellence.
• Provide thought leadership and market insight that strengthens client outcomes and the firm’s reputation.

Ideal Candidate

• Bachelor’s degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Management, or a related discipline.
• 10+ years of experience in cost management, estimating, or project controls, including significant consultancy experience.
• Proven success leading teams, major programs, and complex client portfolios at a senior level.
• Strong commercial acumen with a track record of supporting business development and sustainable growth.
• Executive-level communication and relationship-management skills, with the credibility to advise senior stakeholders.
• Strong technical background with expertise in tools such as CostX, Sage, or Procore, plus advanced Excel skills.

Why Join?

• Take a senior leadership position within a world-class global consultancy.
• Influence landmark real estate and infrastructure projects shaping the Chicago skyline.
• Receive a competitive salary, performance-based bonus, and comprehensive benefits.
• Help shape regional strategy, client growth, and the development of high-performing teams.
• Join a collaborative, forward-thinking culture that values innovation, excellence, and long-term progression.