Financial Planning Principal Analyst

About the job

The Financial Planning Principal Analyst is responsible for supporting the financial planning manager in the development and execution of financial plans, budgets, and forecasts. This is a pivotal role within the finance department, responsible for supporting the organization's financial planning, analysis, and decision-making processes. This position involves conducting detailed financial analyses, developing budgeting and forecasting models, and providing actionable insights to help guide the company's strategic and operational decisions. The analyst will work closely with various departments to understand their financial needs and contribute to the overall financial health of the organization.

Responsibilities:

1. Financial Analysis and Reporting: Conduct thorough financial analyses to identify trends, variances, and potential risks and opportunities. Prepare detailed reports summarizing findings and recommendations for management. Calculate and interpret key financial ratios such as liquidity ratios, profitability ratios, leverage ratios, and efficiency ratios to gauge the organization's financial position and performance relative to industry benchmarks and historical data. Conduct scenario analysis to evaluate the potential financial implications of different business scenarios and market conditions.
2. Budgeting and Forecasting: Assist in the development and maintenance of the company's budgeting and forecasting models. Build valuation models to assess the fair value of assets, securities, and business entities for investment, financial reporting, and strategic decision-making purposes. Work with department heads to gather necessary data and ensure accurate representation of financial performance and projections.
3. Strategic Planning Support: Provide analytical support for strategic planning efforts, including scenario analysis, investment appraisal, and profitability analysis. Help to translate strategic initiatives into financial plans.
4. Performance Monitoring: Develop and maintain financial dashboards and reports to monitor the company's performance against its financial goals. Alert management to any significant variances or areas of concern.
5. Financial Modeling: Develop financial forecasting models to predict future financial performance based on historical data, market trends, and business assumptions. Build and maintain sophisticated financial models to support decision-making regarding projects, investments, and operational changes. Ensure models are accurate and reflect current financial conditions and business strategies.
6. Stakeholder Collaboration: Work closely with stakeholders across the organization to gather insights and data necessary for financial analysis. Serve as a finance liaison to non-finance departments, providing financial guidance and support.
7. Compliance and Best Practices: Ensure financial planning activities adhere to legal and regulatory requirements and align with best practices. Stay abreast of changes in financial regulations and industry trends that may impact the company.

Minimum qualifications:

1. Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field is required. An MBA or professional certifications such as CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) or CPA (Certified Public Accountant) is highly advantageous.
2. 5+ years of experience in financial planning and analysis, accounting, or a related field. Demonstrated experience with budgeting, financial forecasting, and financial modeling and prior experience in a role requiring collaboration across multiple departments and stakeholder management.