Head of Cost Optimization Building System (all genders)

About the Role 

Join GROPYUS and lead the development of a world-class cost optimization function for our building systems. Working at the intersection of product development, engineering, manufacturing, procurement, and construction, you will drive cost competitiveness across the entire building lifecycle. 

As Head of Cost Optimization - Building Systems, you will define the strategy, methodologies, and governance for cost optimization across our product portfolio. You will establish a data-driven understanding of cost drivers, identify opportunities for value creation, and ensure that cost considerations are embedded into product and system decisions from concept through industrialized delivery. 

This is a strategic leadership role for someone who combines deep cost expertise with strong industrial, technical, and commercial thinking. You will build and lead the cost optimization capability, challenge assumptions, and help shape the future evolution of GROPYUS' building systems. 

Your area of responsibilities include:  

• Define and lead the Building Systems Cost Optimization strategy, ensuring cost competitiveness, scalability, and value creation across the product portfolio 
• Co-develop design-to-cost, should-costing, value engineering, and target-costing methodologies across product development, manufacturing, procurement, and construction functions 
• Drive systematic identification and prioritization of cost optimization opportunities for building systems, components, materials, and interfaces 
• Build transparent cost models and feedback loops, ensuring continuous learning from estimated versus actual cost performance 
• Lead and develop the Cost Optimization team, creating clear standards, processes, and capabilities to support business growth 
• Partner with Product, Engineering, Manufacturing, Procurement, Construction, and R&D leaders to embed cost awareness into strategic and operational decision-making 

About You 

Must-Have Skills 

• Extensive experience in cost engineering, product costing, value engineering, cost optimization, or commercial leadership, ideally within the broader construction industry sector 
• Proven track record of leading cross-functional cost reduction initiatives and delivering measurable business impact 
• Strong understanding of complex product and system cost structures, including materials, manufacturing, supply chains, and installation costs 
• Demonstrated leadership experience building teams, influencing senior stakeholders, and driving organizational change 
• Strong data-driven mindset with a solid understanding of digital tools, analytics, and performance measurement frameworks 
• Usual business travel between our sites expected 
• Fluent English language skills 

Nice-to-Have Skills 

• Experience with industrialized construction, modular building systems, prefabrication, or high-volume manufacturing environments 
• Familiarity with timber construction, building systems (MEP, façade, structural systems), German-speaking construction markets, and digital costing tools 
• Lean Six Sigma certification and/or demonstrated experience applying continuous improvement methodologies in complex operational environments 
• Fluent German language skills  

What we offer 

• An unlimited contract with 30 vacation days. 
• Flexible work: We value regular in‑person collaboration in the office, while also offering working from home and the opportunity to work up to 40 days a year from abroad.
• Attractive perks and benefits: We offer a company pension scheme, language courses (English/German), and employee discounts with selected sustainable brands. Furthermore, our external partners in mental health support you in strengthening your mental health through anonymous private/group sessions.  
• Virtual Shares Program: Participate in the success of GROPYUS through our Virtual Share Program. 
• Ownership: You can truly make your mark with your work and contributions – on  all our organizational levels. Find your solutions, drive and test them. 
• The chance to be part of something big: Our mission is to rethink an entire industry. Join us in reinventing construction and fostering sustainable, affordable living.  
• A diverse and enriching work environment: Become a valued member of a wonderfully diverse team of individuals from over 50 countries. At GROPYUS we value inclusion above all, ensuring that everyone feels they belong – no matter their background. In this way, our differences become strengths that help us grow as a team.