Senior Executive, Cost & Contract (Ireland)

Purpose of the Role:

The Senior Data Centre Cost and Contract Executive will play a critical role in managing the procurement and contractual aspects of our data centre development and operations. This individual will be responsible for overseeing cost and procurement process optimization, vendor management, contract negotiation, and ensuring compliance with procurement process and financial and legal requirements.

The ideal candidate will have a strong background in finance, procurement, contract management and quantity surveying, with a good degree of understanding on the operation of Colo Data Centre operations.

Responsibilities:

Construction/Development

1. Cost Analysis and Estimation:
   1. 
      Assist in preparing cost estimates, budgets, and financial models for construction projects.
   2. Analyse project specifications, drawings, and other documentation to quantify materials, labour, and costs.
   3. Support the development of cost plans and cash flow forecasts.
2. Data Collection and Analysis:
   1. Gather and analyse data related to construction costs, market trends, and project performance.
   2. Use quantitative methods to identify patterns, trends, and insights to inform decision-making.
   3. Maintain accurate and up-to-date databases of cost information and benchmarks.
3. Feasibility Studies:
   1. Assist in conducting feasibility studies and risk assessments for proposed projects.
   2. Evaluate the financial viability of projects by analysing costs, revenues, and potential risks.
   3. Prepare reports and presentations to communicate findings to stakeholders.
4. Tender and Contract Support:
   1. Support the preparation of tender documents, including bills of quantities and pricing schedules.
   2. Assist in evaluating contractor bids and proposals.
   3. Help manage post-contract activities, including cost monitoring and variation analysis.
5. Collaboration and Reporting:
   1. Work closely with project managers, engineers, architects, and other stakeholders to ensure alignment on cost and financial objectives.
   2. Prepare clear and concise reports, presentations, and visualizations to communicate findings to clients and internal teams.

Operation

1. Cost Management:
   1. Monitor and analyse data centre operational costs, including power, cooling, maintenance, and vendor services.
   2. Identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements.
   3. Develop and maintain budgets, forecasts, and financial models for data centre operations.
   4. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure cost-effective decision-making.
2. Contract Management:
   1. Oversee the end-to-end contract lifecycle, including drafting, negotiation, execution, and renewal.
   2. Ensure contracts align with company policies, legal requirements, and business objectives.
   3. Manage relationships with vendors and service providers, ensuring compliance with contractual terms and SLAs.
   4. Maintain a centralized repository of all contracts and related documentation.
3. Vendor Management:
   1. Evaluate and select vendors based on cost, quality, and reliability.
   2. Negotiate favourable terms and conditions with vendors to achieve cost savings and mitigate risks.
   3. Conduct regular vendor performance reviews and address any issues or discrepancies.
4. Compliance and Reporting:
   1. Ensure compliance with procurement procedure, legal, and regulatory requirements.
   2. Prepare and present regular reports on cost performance, contract status, and vendor performance to senior management.
   3. Support internal and external audits related to data centre operations.
5. Stakeholder Collaboration:
   1. Work closely with finance, legal, procurement, and operations teams to align on objectives and deliverables.
   2. Provide expert advice and support on cost and contract-related matters.

Requirements

• Degree in Quantity Surveying, Construction Cost Management or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a similar role within the construction or MEP infrastructure sectors.
• Strong numerical and analytical skills, with proficiency in Excel and other data analysis tools.
• Knowledge of cost estimation, financial modelling, and feasibility analysis.
• Familiarity with construction contracts, tendering processes, and procurement methods.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Proactive and self-motivated, with a willingness to learn and develop new skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional accreditation or progress toward RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) / SCSI (Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland) or equivalent certification.
• Experience with cost estimation software (e.g., CostX)
• Knowledge of sustainability and lifecycle costing principles.