Lead Financial Analyst

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,976,000 - 2,964,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-first team

Flexible work hours

Professional development budget

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Financial Analyst to join a fully remote team. You will lead FP&A, build complex financial models, and provide strategic insights to drive business growth from anywhere.

The role emphasizes mentoring junior analysts, collaborating with senior leadership, and translating data into actionable recommendations. Ideal candidates will have 7+ years in financial analysis/FP&A, a Master's degree, and certifications such as CFA or CMA, with strong Excel/VBA and knowledge of

Qualifications

• Master's degree required or equivalent in Finance/Economics or related field.
• CFA or CMA certification is highly preferred.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in financial analysis, FP&A, or related field.
• Proven experience in leading financial analysis projects and teams, ideally in a remote setting.
• Advanced financial modeling skills and proficiency in Excel, VBA, and financial software (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Tableau).
• Strong understanding of financial statements, corporate finance, and investment principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines in a remote environment.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and experience mentoring junior staff.

Responsibilities

• Lead the FP&A function, including budgeting, forecasting, and long-range planning.
• Develop sophisticated financial models to support strategic decision-making and scenario planning.
• Analyze financial performance, identify trends, variances, and opportunities for improvement.
• Prepare insightful financial reports and presentations for executive management and the board.
• Collaborate with departments to understand financial needs and provide analytical support.
• Mentor and guide junior financial analysts, fostering their development.
• Drive implementation of financial systems and tools to enhance efficiency and data accuracy.
• Conduct market research and competitive analysis to identify strategic financial opportunities.
• Ensure financial policies and procedures are followed and identify areas for enhancement.
• Evaluate financial impact of new business initiatives and partnerships.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical thinking

Remote work experience

Education

Master's degree in Finance, Economics, or related field

CFA or CMA certification

Tools

Excel

VBA

SAP

Oracle

Tableau

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled and visionary Lead Financial Analyst to join their dynamic, fully remote team. This role is perfect for a strategic thinker who excels in financial modeling, data analysis, and providing actionable insights to drive business growth. The Lead Financial Analyst will be responsible for overseeing complex financial projects, mentoring junior analysts, and collaborating with senior leadership to shape financial strategies. As a remote-first organization, we value autonomy, proactivity, and exceptional communication skills. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in financial planning and analysis (FP&A), a deep understanding of business drivers, and the ability to translate complex data into clear, compelling recommendations. Join us to make a significant impact from anywhere in the world, contributing to the financial success of our innovative company.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the financial planning and analysis (FP&A) function, including budgeting, forecasting, and long-range planning.
• Develop sophisticated financial models to support strategic decision-making, scenario planning, and investment analysis.
• Analyze financial performance, identifying key trends, variances, and opportunities for improvement.
• Prepare insightful financial reports and presentations for executive management and the board of directors.
• Collaborate with various departments to understand their financial needs and provide analytical support.
• Mentor and guide junior financial analysts, fostering their professional development.
• Drive the implementation of financial systems and tools to enhance efficiency and data accuracy.
• Conduct market research and competitive analysis to identify strategic financial opportunities.
• Ensure financial policies and procedures are followed and identify areas for enhancement.
• Evaluate the financial impact of new business initiatives and strategic partnerships.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Finance, Economics, or a related quantitative field.
• Professional certification such as CFA or CMA is highly preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in financial analysis, FP&A, or a related field.
• Proven experience in leading financial analysis projects and teams, ideally in a remote setting.
• Advanced financial modeling skills and proficiency in Excel, VBA, and financial software (e.g., SAP, Oracle, Tableau).
• Strong understanding of financial statements, corporate finance, and investment principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines in a remote environment.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and experience mentoring junior staff.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Full remote work flexibility, allowing you to work from anywhere.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement savings plans.
• Generous paid time off and professional development budget.
• Opportunity to lead impactful financial initiatives for a growing company.
• Collaborative and innovative remote work culture.