Financial Planning & Analysis Lead

AmaWaterways River Cruises; Calabasas (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

AmaWaterways is seeking an FP&A Lead to drive financial planning, forecasting, and strategic decision support across the organization. This role partners closely with executive leadership and cross-functional teams to provide data-driven insights that guide business performance, optimize resource allocation, and support long-term growth initiatives.

The ideal candidate brings a strong analytical mindset, business acumen, and the ability to translate financial data into actionable

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field (MBA or CPA/CFA preferred).
• 7+ years of FP&A, corporate finance, or related roles.
• Strong financial modeling, forecasting, and analytical skills.
• Experience with Excel, ERP systems, and BI tools (Power BI/Tableau).
• Excellent communication and presentation skills with senior stakeholders.
• Experience in travel, hospitality, or consumer-facing industries is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead the annual budgeting, quarterly forecasting, and long-range planning processes across the organization
• Develop and maintain financial models to support strategic initiatives, scenario planning, and investment decisions
• Analyze financial performance, identify trends and variances, and provide actionable insights to senior leadership
• Partner with business leaders to understand operational drivers and ensure alignment with financial goals
• Prepare executive-level reporting packages including dashboards, KPIs, and board presentations
• Drive continuous improvement in FP&A processes, systems, and reporting capabilities, including automation and data integration initiatives
• Enhance data-driven decision making by leveraging financial and operational data to support strategic priorities
• Collaborate with Accounting to ensure alignment between financial planning and reporting
• Support capital allocation decisions, pricing strategies, and business case evaluations
• Develop and mentor junior finance team members (if applicable), fostering a high-performance and collaborative environment

Skills

Financial modeling

Forecasting

Budgeting

ERP systems

Power BI

Tableau

Executive comms

Education

Bachelor’s in Finance/Accounting/Economics

MBA or CPA/CFA preferred

Tools

Excel

ERP systems

Power BI

Tableau

Job description

At AmaWaterways, we believe meaningful careers begin with purpose, passion and a shared commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences. For those who value curiosity, connection and personal enrichment, AmaWaterways offers the opportunity to help craft meaningful river journeys that invite travelers to follow their own current. Built on a foundation of heartfelt hospitality, we treat our guests—and each other—with genuine care, warmth and respect. AmaWaterways fosters a collaborative environment both onboard our ships and across our global network of offices, where team members grow together, support one another and take pride in upholding the high standards and thoughtful service our company is known for.

We invite talented, motivated professionals to explore our career opportunities and begin their journey with AmaWaterways today.

Position Summary

The FP&A Lead plays a critical role in driving financial planning, forecasting, and strategic decision support across AmaWaterways. This role partners closely with executive leadership and cross-functional teams to provide data-driven insights that guide business performance, optimize resource allocation, and support long-term growth initiatives. The ideal candidate brings a strong analytical mindset, business acumen, and the ability to translate financial data into actionable recommendations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the annual budgeting, quarterly forecasting, and long-range planning processes across the organization
• Develop and maintain financial models to support strategic initiatives, scenario planning, and investment decisions
• Analyze financial performance, identify trends and variances, and provide actionable insights to senior leadership
• Partner with business leaders to understand operational drivers and ensure alignment with financial goals
• Prepare executive-level reporting packages including dashboards, KPIs, and board presentations
• Drive continuous improvement in FP&A processes, systems, and reporting capabilities, including automation and data integration initiatives
• Enhance data-driven decision making by leveraging financial and operational data to support strategic priorities
• Collaborate with Accounting to ensure alignment between financial planning and reporting
• Support capital allocation decisions, pricing strategies, and business case evaluations
• Develop and mentor junior finance team members (if applicable), fostering a high-performance and collaborative environment

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field (MBA or CPA/CFA preferred)
• 7+ years of progressive experience in FP&A, corporate finance, or related roles
• Strong financial modeling, forecasting, and analytical skills
• Experience working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment with evolving priorities
• Proficiency in financial systems and tools (e.g., Excel, ERP systems, BI tools such as Power BI/Tableau)
• Excellent communication and presentation skills with the ability to influence senior stakeholders
• Strong attention to detail with a commitment to accuracy and quality
• Experience in travel, hospitality, or consumer-facing industries is a plus

Core Competencies for Success

Business Acumen

Understands the broader business impact of decisions; considers financial, market, and operational implications; aligns work with strategic priorities.

Analytical Thinking

Synthesizes complex information; leverages data, experience, and sound judgment to design practical and effective solutions.

Strategic Thinking

Anticipates trends and opportunities; adapts strategies as conditions change; balances near-term execution with long-term growth.

Collaboration & Teamwork

Partners effectively across teams and functions; values diverse viewpoints; builds trust; advances shared goals and collective success.

Leadership & Influence

Inspires and motivates others; communicates a clear direction; provides meaningful feedback; leads with confidence, empathy, and accountability.

Quality & Accountability

Delivers accurate, thoughtful work; applies feedback to improve outcomes; maintains high standards while balancing efficiency.