Head of Cost Controls

About Hughes Marino

Hughes Marino is a nationally recognized, award-winning corporate real estate advisory firm specializing in representing occupiers, never landlords. Our Program, Project & Construction Management practice serves as owner's representative and third-party CM for some of the most dynamic companies in the country, guiding clients through complex projects with independent, conflict-free expertise.

We are currently seeking a Head of Cost Controls to join our Irvine team, supporting a growing portfolio of office, industrial, advanced manufacturing, and defense technology projects.

The Role

As Head of Cost Controls, you will be the person who brings structure, rigor, and financial clarity to a large and complex construction program, working from the owner's side with full independence from GC or design team interests. You will own cost control systems end-to-end, transforming complexity into actionable insights that drive executive-level decisions. This is a leadership role with direct visibility to senior clients and real influence over program outcomes.

What You'll Own

• Own and continuously improve cost control systems and procedures to keep projects on budget and financially efficient
• Oversee project budgets, maintain forecast integrity, and manage financial reporting throughout the project lifecycle
• Conduct regular cost analyses to identify savings opportunities, track expenditures, and recommend adjustments
• Identify financial risks and enforce change control governance to mitigate cost overruns and protect baseline integrity
• Work closely with project managers, contractors, and clients to align project and financial goals; integrate outputs with PMIS
• Run the monthly cost reporting cycle including variance thresholds, cash flow formats, and executive summaries

What We're Looking For

• 12+ years of experience in cost controls, project controls, or construction finance, with at least 3 years in a leadership role
• Demonstrated ability to develop, implement, and maintain cost control systems and standards across complex, multi-project environments
• Strong knowledge of WBS structures, CSI codes, EAC methodologies, contingency frameworks, and change management workflows
• Experience implementing and/or managing PMIS platforms (Procore, e-Builder, InEight, or similar)
• Ability to present financial data clearly and compellingly to senior executive audiences
• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills in cross-functional teams; comfortable navigating and presenting to project teams, business line leaders, and C-suite audiences
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel; experience with Power BI or similar reporting tools preferred
• Proficient in Bluebeam and Microsoft Project
• Experience with Hardware Technology, Advanced Manufacturing projects, Secure/SCIF/ICD-705, and/or Maritime is a strong plus -- candidates with this background will be prioritized
• Self-directed and deadline-driven, with the ability to manage multiple active projects simultaneously
• Local candidates only: Orange County

Compensation & Details

• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience ranging from $160,000-$210,000
• Competitive benefits package and long-term career growth within Hughes Marino
• Periodic travel to project sites as required
• Bachelor's degree required in Construction Management, Engineering, Finance, or a related field; CCP or EVP certification a plus