Project Cost Challenge Manager

Job Description

Job Title: Project Cost Challenge Manager - AVP

Location: Knutsford or Northampton

Hybrid: 3 days a week in the office (anchor days are Tues, Weds, Fridays)

Contract Length: 6 months

Rate: £400 - £500pd - PAYE only

Randstad Sourceright, a leading provider of RPO & MSP Recruitment Services, is currently recruiting for a Project Cost Challenge Manager to work for an investment bank.

Role: The job requires a highly organized and driven Project Cost Challenge Manager to help coordinate a series of cost improvement initiatives within investment banks, primarily focusing on procurement. This role requires a strong understanding of corporate procurement processes and the ability to manage multiple stakeholders at senior levels. The successful candidate will be responsible for creating action plans, working with data, navigating governance models, and driving progress across a series of initiatives.

While understanding the relationship with finance is important, this role will not have direct responsibility for financial management. The main focus is on the project management aspect, delivering cost-saving initiatives on time and within budget.

Responsibilities:

1. Coordinate and manage multiple cost improvement initiatives within investment banks.
2. Develop and execute action plans to achieve cost reduction targets.
3. Work with data to analyze spending patterns and identify areas for improvement.
4. Manage stakeholders at all levels, from procurement teams to senior management.
5. Maintain a consistent cadence of progress against initiative timelines.
6. Navigate governance models and ensure compliance with internal policies and procedures.
7. Proactively identify and mitigate potential risks and challenges.
8. Organize, cajole, and drive initiatives effectively and efficiently.

Key Skills and Experience Required:

1. Proven project or program management experience is essential.
2. Significant experience in corporate procurement (sourcing, supplier management, post-contract management, or business management) is highly desirable.
3. Strong understanding of cost budgeting and supply chain management within large organizations.
4. Experience in financial services is a plus, but experience in other large blue-chip organizations is also considered.
5. A Project Management qualification is desirable (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2).
6. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills.
7. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
8. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Qualifications: A Project Management qualification (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2) is desirable, but lots of relevant experience will also be acceptable.

We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities and encourage all qualified candidates to apply. While the hiring process may not be expedited, we urge all interested candidates to submit their applications promptly to ensure their consideration. To apply, please follow the instructions on our application portal.

We look forward to receiving your application.