Senior Cost Management Lead, Johannesburg Data Center at Microsoft

Overview


Microsoft Cloud Operations and Innovation (CO&I) is the team behind the cloud. Within CO&I, the Engineering Procurement & Construction (EPC) organization is responsible for delivering core datacenter infrastructure for Microsoft's cloud business. The MS portfolio consists of complex, multi-disciplinary, large scale, multi-year datacenter construction and lease projects. We are looking for a passionate, high-energy individual to help build the cloud datacenters that power the world's largest online services.
In alignment with our Microsoft values, we are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment for all employees to positively impact our culture every day. 
To help us achieve our objectives, growth, and transformation, we are looking for a Cost Management Lead for the Johannesburg Metro to work alongside the EPC in country to commercially manage all data center construction projects in the region. 
Being part of this team would give you an opportunity to be part of a rapidly growing business and enable regional impact
Microsoft's mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. As employees we come together with a growth mindset, innovate to empower others and collaborate to realize our shared goals. Each day we build on our values of respect, integrity, and accountability to create a culture of inclusion where everyone can thrive at work and beyond
This role is located in Johannesburg, South Africa. Relocation support may be provided, and successful candidates must ​relocate or reside within 50 miles of the specified location. 
This role is not eligible for hybrid or remote work.


Responsibilities


Lead commercial and cost management activities across the full project lifecycle, partnering with design, construction, finance, scheduling, project controls, and other stakeholders to deliver projects within approved scope, budget, and timelines.
Develop and manage project cost plans, estimates, and budgets, providing accurate forecasting, funding support, scenario analysis, and commercial insights to enable effective decision making.
Oversee contract and financial administration, including contract pricing, payment applications, invoice approvals, final account settlements, and ensuring Microsoft remains financially and contractually protected.
Manage change control and commercial risk, evaluating change orders, resolving disputes, and providing commercial guidance throughout project delivery.
Provide commercial oversight of procurement activities, reviewing subcontractor packages, vendor agreements, procurement strategies, and authorization processes to ensure value and compliance.
Lead external cost management partners and consultants, including Quantity Surveying firms, ensuring high-quality commercial support, resource planning, performance management, and regular business reviews.
Drive commercial governance and continuous improvement, establishing consistent processes, reporting frameworks, cost controls, value engineering initiatives, and regional commercial best practices while fostering a culture of accountability, inclusion, and collaboration.


Qualifications


Bachelor's Degree in Quantity surveying, Construction Project Management, Architecture, Engineering, or related field OR equivalent experience.  
Leadership experience in Construction Projects
Experience delivering cost management on datacentre construction projects
Experience of construction-phase commercial delivery, including general contractor procurement, change management, review of subcontractor costs and pay applications, and final account settlement
Experience delivering on projects with individual build values in excess of $500M
Clear understanding of the full construction lifecycle


While not required, we also look for the following Preferred Qualifications:


Strong Power BI, Excel, reporting and tracking tooling
Clear executive-level written communication
Comfort operating in ambiguity and cross-functional forums
Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) full membership or equivalent 
English working proficiency


Background Check Requirements:


Ability to meet Microsoft, customer and/or government security screening requirements are required for this role. These requirements include, but are not limited to the following specialized security screenings:
Microsoft Cloud Background Check: This position will be required to pass the Microsoft Cloud background check upon hire/transfer and every two years thereafter.


This position will be open for a minimum of 5 days, with applications accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.