Senior Cost Manager (Data Centre Construction)

Location: Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Malaysia

About Horizontal

Established since 2003 in the US, Horizontal solves complex challenges across two distinct businesses: Horizontal Digital and Horizontal Talent. We are consistently recognized as a top workplace and one of the fastest-growing private companies. Horizontal Talent specializes in staffing across IT, Digital & Creative, and Business & Strategy markets, with global offices in the US, UAE, India, Malaysia, and Australia.

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced Senior / Cost Manager to oversee budgeting, cost control, financial planning, and contract administration for large-scale data centre construction projects. You will play a key role in ensuring projects are delivered within budget while maintaining cost efficiency throughout the project lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

Prepare and manage project cost estimates and budgets.
Review quantity take-offs and monitor construction costs.
Track project spending, identify cost variances, and recommend corrective actions.
Develop and implement cost control strategies to improve project profitability.
Conduct cost analysis, forecasting, and cash flow reporting.
Evaluate design changes and assess cost impacts.
Identify value engineering and cost-saving opportunities.
Support contract administration, including variations, claims, and contract compliance.
Work closely with Design, Construction, Procurement, and Finance teams to ensure effective project delivery.
Prepare regular financial and cost reports for project stakeholders.
Ensure compliance with company policies and industry standards.

Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Quantity Surveying, Cost Engineering, Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.
Minimum 8 years of experience in Cost Management, Quantity Surveying, Cost Control, or Project Controls within construction, industrial, or data centre projects.
Strong verbal and written communication skills in English and Chinese to effectively collaborate with project teams, contractors and suppliers.
Strong knowledge of construction costing, budgeting, and financial reporting.
Experience preparing detailed cost estimates and reviewing quantity take-offs.
Good understanding of construction contracts and contract administration.
Proficient in Microsoft Excel and cost management tools such as CostX, Primavera, RSMeans, or similar software.
Experience with SAP or other ERP systems is an advantage.
Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
Experience supporting regional or international projects is preferred.
Professional certifications (e.g., RICS) will be an added advantage.

Horizontal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

Horizontal is committed to taking affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans. If you are an individual with a disability and require a reasonable accommodation to complete any part of the application process or participate in the interview process, click here to request accommodation assistance.

All applicants applying must be legally authorized to work in the country of employment.