Work Type: Ongoing - Full-time
Salary: $195,324 - $256,088
Grade: Grade in advertisement
Occupation: Projects
Location: Melbourne - CBD and Inner Metro suburbs
Reference: VG/VGRD/DC/1920523MD
The Opportunity
Reporting to the Director, Project Controls and working with the delivery teams, the Senior Manager Cost Planning is responsible for leading all aspects of cost control, budget allocation, cash flow management and forecasting both within VicGrid and for aligning and ensuring the accuracy of input of project data from VicGrid's delivery partners. The role also supports the Finance function in compiling annual budgeting forecasts required for VicGrid operations by ensuring that the Delivery and Commercial forecast is as accurate as possible and is completed within the VicGrid ERP system. The role will also assist with the preparation of project cost estimates for VicGrid's project portfolio, at various stages of the project lifecycle.
What you will deliver
• Lead end-to-end project cost management, including budget development, forecasting, cash flow management, variance analysis and change control across the project lifecycle.
• Provide expert cost estimating and benchmarking input to delivery and business cases, proposals and investment decisions to support robust planning and approvals.
• Manage and coordinate external estimators and Project Managers as required, ensuring alignment with VicGrid cost, reporting and governance standards.
• Maintain, enhance and govern project cost control systems to ensure data integrity, consistency and high-quality financial and performance reporting.
• Oversee cost and performance reporting to identify emerging risks, trends and variances, providing timely insights and recommendations to delivery leaders.
• Participate in contractor tender and bid evaluations, including the assessment of variations, claims, progress payments and cost impacts in accordance with contractual requirements.
• Support delivery teams with cost risk identification, assessment and mitigation strategies, while contributing to the continuous improvement of cost control frameworks, systems and practices.
What you will bring
• Demonstrated expertise in a similar role, managing multiple projects. Experience in cost management across major infrastructure, construction or engineering projects, including budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, cost control methodologies and the use of cost management systems across all phases of delivery.
• Extensive knowledge of financial and project management systems; in particular Dynamics-365, Financial Reporting, Projects Module and integration data retained in a Data Warehouse.
• Demonstrated capability in working with different contractual agreements, and integrating them into a series of Portfolios or Enterprise structures.
• Strong analytical capability with the ability to critically review forecasts, identify trends and cost risks, and provide clear, evidence-based advice to support sound decision-making in complex delivery environments.
• Proven ability to manage ambiguity, competing priorities and complex stakeholder needs.
Other relevant information
Preferred candidates will be required to undertake pre-employment screening, including a Declaration and Consent form and a National Police Check.
To be eligible for appointment to this role, applicants will possess corresponding work rights for the advertised employment period. This role is only available to Australian/New Zealand citizens or Australian Permanent Residents.
How to Apply
This is an ongoing role. The work location for this position is 2 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne. Hybrid work arrangements available. To be considered for this position, submit a resume and cover letter (no longer than 2 pages) summarising your skills and relevant experience. Applications close on Friday 8th May 2026.