Strategic Planning Analyst — Forecasting & Decision Insights

Heriot-Watt University; Kilmarnock; On-site; GBP 38,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Heriot-Watt University is seeking a Planning Analyst to develop and embed the university’s integrated planning capability. The postholder will produce analysis, forecasts and management information to support prioritisation, affordability, governance and resource allocation decisions across the institution.

The role requires strong analytical skills, experience in planning or PMO environments, and proficiency with Excel and Power BI.

Qualifications

• Strong analytical skills to interpret financial, operational and performance data.
• Experience turning complex information into clear insights for decision-makers.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 apps, especially Excel and Power BI.
• Ability to manage stakeholders and communicate insights effectively.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain integrated planning artefacts for university-wide planning and decision-making.
• Analyse planning, financial, performance, workforce and change portfolio data to identify trends and risks.
• Support development of integrated planning, forecasting and scenario modelling capabilities.
• Design and improve the future planning model as ongoing planning continues.
• Create management information, forecasts and dashboards combining financial and operational measures.
• Support planning cycles through analysis of submissions, impacts and risks.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to gather inputs, challenge assumptions and improve data quality.
• Develop planning standards, templates and guidance to promote consistent practices.
• Conduct capacity, workforce and affordability analyses to inform investments and resourcing.
• Contribute to governance forums and executive reporting with planning insights and recommendations.

Skills

Analytical skills

Stakeholder management

Data interpretation

Microsoft 365 proficiency

Education

Degree qualification

Tools

Excel

Power BI

SharePoint

PowerPoint

Job description

Heriot-Watt University is seeking a Planning Analyst to develop and embed the university’s integrated planning capability. The postholder will produce analysis, forecasts and management information to support prioritisation, affordability, governance and resource allocation decisions across the institution.

The role requires strong analytical skills, experience in planning or PMO environments, and proficiency with Excel and Power BI.