Financial Planning Analyst

Job description

**Job Title: Specialist Financial Analyst -- Central Global Opex management Team (IC3)** **Role Summary** The Specialist Financial Analyst (IC3) is a high-impact individual contributor responsible for end-to-end ownership of Operating Expense forecasting and management for assigned Lines of Business (LOBs) and regions. This role drives forecasting accuracy, leveraging automation and strategic insights through advanced use of Enterprise Performance Management (EPM) systems, analytics and AI-driven tools. The individual acts as a trusted finance partner to business stakeholders and plays a key role in improving forecasting accuracy and operational efficiency. **Key Responsibilities** **1. Forecasting \& Financial Ownership** Own OPEX forecasting process for assigned LOBs/regions. Develop accurate run-rate models and driver-based forecasts. Lead annual budget cycles. Analyze variances vs Forecast and Prior Year Provide actionable insights to business leaders. **2. Business Partnering** Partner with business leaders to understand cost drivers and strategic initiatives. Challenge assumptions constructively and provide financial guidance Translate financial data into business language for decision-making. **3. Automation \& Process Excellence** Leverage automation tools to streamline forecasting processes. Drive standardization across LOBs/regions. Identify efficiency opportunities and eliminate manual work. Support continuous improvement initiatives across the OPEX function. **4. Analytics \& AI Enablement** Utilize advanced analytics to detect trends, anomalies, and risk areas. Leverage AI-powered forecasting tools to improve accuracy. Support predictive modeling and scenario planning. **Required Technical Skills** 1. **Financial \& Analytical Skills** Strong understanding of FP\&A principles and OPEX management Advanced variance analysis and driver-based forecasting Scenario modeling and sensitivity analysis Strong Excel skills (advanced formulas, pivot tables, modeling) 1. **Systems Expertise** Hands-on experience with Enterprise Performance Management (EPM) tools Oracle EPM / Hyperion / Planning Experience with Business Intelligence \& Analytics tools - Power BI / Tableau / similar Familiarity with AI-driven forecasting or predictive analytics tools **Behavioral \& Personality Traits** We are looking for someone who demonstrates: 1. **Ownership Mindset** 2. **Analytical Curiosity** 3. **Structured \& Detail-Oriented** 4. **Influencing \& Communication Skills** 5. **Continuous Improvement Orientation** 6. **Collaborative \& Supportive** Takes full accountability for numbers Proactively identifies risks and proposes solutions Naturally questions trends and anomalies Goes beyond reporting to uncover insights High accuracy in financial analysis Strong discipline in data validation Confident in engaging with senior stakeholders Ability to simplify complex financial topics Passionate about automation and efficiency Embraces technology and AI adoption Works effectively in cross-functional teams Shares knowledge and best practices **Experience \& Qualifications** 1. 8--12 years of experience in FP\&A or OPEX management 2. Experience in a multinational / matrixed organization preferred 3. Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field 4. MBA / CA / CPA (preferred but not mandatory) **What Success Looks Like in This Role** 1. High forecast accuracy and reduced variance volatility 2. Increased automation and reduced manual effort 3. Strong stakeholder confidence and trust 4. Improved transparency through dashboards and analytics 5. Active contribution to AI-enabled forecasting maturity