Financial Planning Analyst

Financial Planning Analyst Position Summary: The Financial Planning Analyst supports the Controller in delivering high-quality financial planning, analysis, and business performance reporting. This role partners closely with finance and business stakeholders to provide timely financial insights, drive forecasting accuracy, support strategic decision-making and ensure strong financial governance. Key Responsibilities Financial Planning & Forecasting • Support the preparation of annual budgets, quarterly forecasts, and financial plans. • Consolidate financial inputs from various business units and validate assumptions. Financial Analysis & Reporting • Produce monthly financial reports, dashboards, and performance analyses. • Analyze revenue, gross margin, operating expenses, and profitability. • Investigate financial variances against budget, forecast, and prior periods, providing meaningful commentary and recommendations. • Develop ad hoc financial analyses to support business initiatives and management requests. Business Partnering • Support the Business Controller in providing financial guidance to sales, operations, supply chain, and project management teams. • Assist business stakeholders in understanding financial performance and key value drivers. Performance Management • Track key performance indicators (KPIs) and identify trends, risks, and opportunities. • Support initiatives aimed at improving profitability, cost efficiency, and operational performance. • Monitor business performance against strategic objectives and highlight areas requiring management attention. Financial Governance & Compliance • Ensure financial reporting complies with policies, accounting standards, and internal controls. • Support month-end and year-end closing activities from a financial planning perspective. • Assist with internal and external audit requirements where applicable. • Maintain the integrity and accuracy of financial data. Process Improvement • Identify opportunities to streamline financial reporting and planning processes. • Support implementation of finance transformation initiatives and system enhancements. Qualifications • Bachelor's Degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related discipline. • Professional accounting qualification (CPA, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent) is an advantage. • 3–5 years of experience in financial planning and analysis, commercial finance, or business controlling, preferably within a multinational manufacturing or industrial environment. • Experience with SAP ERP and financial planning/reporting tools is preferred. • Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel. Knowledge & Skills • Strong analytical skills. • Excellent understanding of budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting processes. • Ability to interpret financial information and communicate insights effectively to non-finance stakeholders. • Strong attention to detail with a high level of accuracy. • Excellent communication. • Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines. • Strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities. • Collaborative team player with the ability to work across functions and cultures. Key Competencies • Financial Analysis • Planning & Organizing • Continuous Improvement • Stakeholder Management • Integrity & Compliance • Collaboration • Results Orientation