Redpath Partners have been engaged to recruit a Cost Planning Director on behalf of Sydney Water. This is a key leadership role within their Infrastructure Delivery division.
This is a standout opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping how one of Australia's largest infrastructure organisations approaches cost, investment, and delivery across a significant capital portfolio.
The Opportunity
The Cost Planning Director will lead the development and embedding of an enterprise-wide cost planning and cost intelligence capability. This role is central to driving a shift from traditional estimating toward proactive, data-led cost management across the full asset lifecycle—from concept through to delivery and benefits realisation.
Operating at a strategic level, you will influence major investment decisions, support robust governance outcomes, and ensure value-for-money is achieved across Sydney Water's infrastructure programs.
Key Responsibilities
Establish and lead an enterprise-wide cost planning framework that delivers reliable, benchmarked cost intelligence
Embed cost realism and value-for-money principles into design, procurement, and delivery decision‐making
Oversee the development and ongoing enhancement of global rate databases and benchmarking systems
Provide independent cost assurance across business cases, Gateway reviews, and Board submissions
Deliver insights on cost performance across the capital portfolio, identifying trends and opportunities for improvement




Influence design and scope decisions through proactive cost analysis and scenario testing
Partner with engineering, program delivery, procurement, finance, and risk teams to align cost outcomes with broader business objectives
Build, lead, and mentor a high‐performing cost planning team
The Candidate
We are seeking a highly experienced cost planning or estimating leader with a strong background in infrastructure or construction.
You will bring:
15+ years' experience across infrastructure or major project environments
Proven leadership experience within cost planning or estimating.
Solid track record contributing to business cases, investment submissions, and governance processes
Expertise in cost benchmarking, data analytics, and performance improvement
The ability to influence senior stakeholders and drive strategic outcomes
Tertiary qualifications in quantity surveying, engineering, or a related discipline
Experience within regulated or public‐sector environments, and familiarity with NSW Treasury or Infrastructure NSW frameworks, will be advantageous.
Why Apply
This role offers the opportunity to:
Shape and lead a critical capability within a major infrastructure organisation
Influence large‐scale capital investment decisions
Drive improved cost performance and value‐for‐money outcomes
Work within a collaborative, forward‐thinking environment focused on sustainability and long‐term impact
Cost Planning Director – Sydney Water
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📌 Cost Planning Director (Sydney)
🏢 Redpath Partners
📍 Sydney