Position Overview:

The Senior Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) Analyst plays a pivotal role in supporting the financial planning process, analyzing financial performance, preparing reports, and providing insights to senior management to drive strategic business decisions. The role requires a high level of expertise in financial modeling, variance analysis, and forecasting, while also interacting with various departments to align financial outcomes with operational goals.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Financial Forecasting & Budgeting:
   • Lead the annual budgeting process, working closely with department heads to ensure accurate budget submissions.
   • Create detailed financial forecasts for the business, incorporating market trends, business strategies, and historical performance data.
2. Variance Analysis:
   • Conduct monthly and quarterly variance analysis, comparing actual performance to forecasted results, and providing explanations for variances.
   • Identify opportunities to improve financial performance and reduce costs, recommending actionable steps to management.
3. Financial Modeling & Scenario Analysis:
   • Develop complex financial models to assess business opportunities, pricing strategies, capital investments, and other strategic initiatives.
   • Conduct scenario analysis to evaluate the potential financial outcomes of various business decisions.
4. Reporting & Presentations:
   • Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports for senior leadership and other stakeholders.
   • Present financial insights and recommendations to executive teams, supporting strategic decision-making processes.
5. Business Performance Monitoring:
   • Track key performance indicators (KPIs) and provide regular updates to management on business performance.
   • Monitor financial trends and conduct industry benchmarking to assess the company’s competitive position.
6. Cross-Functional Collaboration:
   • Collaborate with various teams (e.g., Operations, Sales, Marketing) to ensure alignment between financial plans and operational goals.
   • Support special projects, such as mergers and acquisitions (M&A) or new product launches, by providing financial analysis and insights.
7. Process Improvement:
   • Lead initiatives to streamline financial reporting processes, improve data accuracy, and enhance efficiency.
   • Implement and maintain financial systems and tools to enhance forecasting and reporting capabilities.
8. Compliance & Risk Management:
   • Ensure all financial reporting complies with company policies and accounting standards.
   • Identify financial risks and propose mitigation strategies to protect the company’s financial health.

 

Financial Analysis & Reporting: Strong ability to analyze complex financial data, identify trends, and provide actionable insights.Budgeting & Forecasting: Expertise in preparing detailed financial forecasts and budgets.Variance Analysis: Proficient in analyzing variances between actual results and forecasts/budgets, with a focus on identifying the root causes.Advanced Financial Modeling: Ability to build, modify, and interpret complex financial models for decision-making purposes.Scenario Planning: Skilled in developing different scenarios to assess financial impacts of business strategies and decisions.Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency in using advanced tools such as Excel (with VBA, macros), Power BI, or similar reporting platforms.ERP Systems: Familiarity with financial systems like SAP, Oracle, Hyperion, or similar platforms.Communication & Presentation Skills: Ability to present financial information clearly and persuasively to non-financial stakeholders and senior management.Attention to Detail: A meticulous approach to financial data, ensuring accuracy and reliability in reporting.Collaboration & Leadership: Strong interpersonal skills to work cross-functionally and influence decisions at all levels.Strategic Thinking: Ability to align financial analysis with broader business objectives and contribute to long-term planning.Problem-Solving: A proactive approach to identifying problems and coming up with data-driven solutions.Time Management: Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.Preferred Qualifications:Education: Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field (MBA or relevant certifications like CMA, CFA are a plus).Experience: Minimum 4-6 years of experience in FP&A, financial analysis, or similar roles.Certifications: CMA, CFA, or equivalent finance/accounting certifications are preferred.