Senior Financial Analyst, SEA

PERSOL; Penang; On-site; MYR 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global company in Malaysia is looking for a skilled financial professional to lead the preparation of budgets and forecasts. This role involves preparing comprehensive financial reports, serving as a financial partner to various departments, and driving continuous improvement in financial processes. The ideal candidate will have 7-8 years of experience in MNC manufacturing companies, strong analytical skills, and a degree in Accountancy. Knowledge of SAP and advanced Excel is required.

Qualifications

• 7 - 8 years of experience in MNC Manufacturing companies; US based company is preferred.
• 2 - 3 years of progressive experience in Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A), regional exposure is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of financial statement analysis, cost and expense analysis, budgeting, forecasting.

Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation of the annual budget, quarterly forecasts, and long-range plans.
• Prepare and deliver comprehensive financial reports and variance analysis.
• Serve as a key financial partner to operational and functional leaders.
• Drive continuous improvement in the FP&A process.
• Conduct deep-dive financial analysis to support executive decision-making.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Decision-making skills

Communication skills

Detail-oriented

Results-driven

Ability to manage multiple responsibilities

Positive attitude

Fast learner

Education

Degree or equivalent professional qualification in Accountancy

Tools

SAP

Hyperion

One Stream

Power BI

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Lead Preparation of Budget & Forecast

• Lead the preparation of the annual budget, quarterly forecasts, and long-range plans for SEA zone in collaboration with various department heads
• Analyse historical performance and market trends to develop accurate financial projections

Performance Analysis & Reporting

• Prepare and deliver comprehensive monthly/quarterly financial reports and variance analysis (actual vs. budget/forecast). Identify key performance indicators (KPIs) and track zone operational and financial performance
• Present financial results, key trends, and risks/opportunities to zone level management

Business Partnering

• Serve as a key financial partner to zone commercial, operational, and functional leaders
• Provide financial modelling and analysis to support strategic initiatives, investment decisions (e.g., CapEx), and cost management programs

Process Improvement & Systems

• Drive continuous improvement in the FP&A process, focusing on efficiency, accuracy, and timely delivery of insights
• Maintain and enhance financial planning models and reporting tools (e.g., SAP, Onestream, Qlikview, etc.)
• Act as superuser of Financial reporting/Planning systems to provide technical support to local teams; provide trainings when needed
• Support Asia FP&A on regional initiatives

Ad-Hoc Analysis

• Conduct deep-dive financial analysis on an as-needed basis to support executive decision-making

Requisite Criteria

• Degree or equivalent professional qualification in Accountancy
• 7 - 8 years of experience in MNC Manufacturing companies; US based company is preferred
• 2 - 3 years of progressive experience in Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A), Business Analysis；regional exposure is preferred
• Strong knowledge of financial statement analysis, cost and expense analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and reporting
• Highly proficient with Microsoft Excel
• Knowledge of SAP, Hyperion, One Stream, Power BI

Skills

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision‑making skills
• Detail‑oriented and results‑driven with a high standard for accuracy and quality of numbers
• Excellent communication and presentation skills to clearly explain financial recommendations and trends to leadership and clients
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple responsibilities, and prioritize tasks in a fast‑paced environment
• Positive attitude and can work under pressure
• Quick learner and proactively taking actions to improve