We are seeking a top-tier Freelance Costing Expert to work with our software development teams on an on-demand basis under a Master Service Agreement (MSA). You will be responsible for developing detailed and accurate cost models for complex software development projects, supporting the bid defense process by providing clear and competitive pricing strategies, and ensuring financial feasibility throughout the project lifecycle.
Key Responsibilities:
Bid Defense Financial Support: Work closely with the sales and pre-sales teams to provide financial insights during bid defense presentations. Present comprehensive cost models, pricing strategies, and financial justifications to ensure client confidence in the proposed software solutions.
Cost Modeling Estimation: Develop detailed cost estimates for software development projects, accounting for labor, technology, resources, infrastructure, and contingency. Ensure that cost models align with the project scope, timeline, and client budget.
Pricing Strategy Development: Collaborate with project managers and solution architects to develop competitive, transparent, and profitable pricing strategies that are both cost-effective for clients and profitable for the business.
Financial Analysis Reporting: Conduct financial analyses, including ROI, TCO, and cost-benefit analysis, to demonstrate the long-term financial value of the proposed solution. Provide regular updates on budget forecasts and cost control measures throughout the project lifecycle.
Risk Identification Mitigation: Identify potential financial risks in the project and work with stakeholders to develop risk mitigation strategies. Ensure that all financial aspects of the project are transparent and well-documented for client presentations.
Budget Monitoring: Monitor project budgets during the development phase to ensure that costs remain within the agreed-upon limits. Provide financial reports and cost-saving recommendations to maintain profitability.
Requirements:
Extensive Experience in Software Development Costing: At least 7-10 years of experience in financial planning, cost estimation, and pricing for software development projects. Strong understanding of software development lifecycle (SDLC) costing.
Bid Defense Expertise: Proven experience supporting bid defense presentations by explaining detailed cost models and pricing structures. Ability to confidently justify costs to both technical and business stakeholders.
Financial Analysis Skills: Strong expertise in ROI, TCO, and cost-benefit analysis for software development projects. Proficiency in financial modeling and forecasting tools.
Attention to Detail: Highly detail-oriented with the ability to manage complex financial models and ensure accuracy in cost estimations.
Preferred Qualifications: CFA, CIMA, or equivalent finance certifications.
Industry Knowledge: Experience in providing financial estimates for software development projects in industries such as healthcare, fintech, or SaaS products.