Finance Analyst (Commercial) | Job in Northamptonshire

In the role of Finance Analyst (Commercial) for this 12-month fixed term contract based in the East Midlands, you will be responsible for providing strategic financial analysis and insights to support the commercial activities of our organization. Here's a snapshot of your daily activities:

• Financial Analysis: Conducting financial analysis of the company's commercial activities to identify trends, opportunities, and risks. This includes analyzing sales data, market trends, customer behavior, and competitor activity to inform strategic decisions.

• Budgeting and Forecasting: Preparing annual budgets for assigned business units or projects, as well as creating forecast models to help predict future financial performance. You will also be responsible for monitoring actual results against budgeted and forecasted figures, identifying variances, and recommending corrective actions when necessary.

• Performance Reporting: Preparing comprehensive performance reports for the senior management team. These reports should provide insights into the financial health of the business, highlighting key drivers of performance and areas requiring attention.

• Financial Modeling: Building and maintaining financial models to support strategic decisions and investment appraisals. This includes developing discounted cash flow (DCF) models, sensitivity analyses, and scenario planning.

• Business Partnering: Working closely with various commercial teams across the organization to understand their financial requirements, provide financial advice, and support decision-making processes.

• Ad hoc Analysis: Conducting ad hoc analysis as required by the business, such as market research, competitor analysis, pricing studies, or cost analysis.

• Process Improvement: Identifying opportunities to improve financial processes and systems, and working with the relevant teams to implement these improvements.

• Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring that all financial activities comply with relevant regulations and standards. This includes maintaining accurate records, preparing necessary reports, and liaising with external auditors as required.

Required Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business Administration, or related field with a strong academic record. A postgraduate qualification such as MSc in Finance, CFA or ACCA is desirable but not essential.

• Minimum of 3 years' experience in a financial analyst role within a commercial setting, preferably in the East Midlands region.

• Proficiency in using financial modeling software and Excel, including creating complex models and spreadsheets, and conducting data analysis. Knowledge of other financial software packages is advantageous.

• Strong analytical skills with an ability to interpret complex financial data, identify trends, and make informed recommendations based on findings.

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present financial information effectively to stakeholders at all levels.

• Demonstrable experience in budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis, as well as experience in producing accurate financial reports and delivering insights based on these reports.

• Proven ability to work collaboratively with other departments and teams to deliver projects to a high standard, meeting deadlines where necessary.

• Experience working within the manufacturing or logistics sector is beneficial but not essential.

• Knowledge of financial risk management principles and practices would be advantageous.

• Familiarity with ERP systems such as SAP is desirable but not essential.

• Strong numerical skills, attention to detail, and a methodical approach to problem-solving are highly desirable.

• The ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment and work under pressure to meet deadlines.

• A strategic mindset with the ability to think creatively and proactively identify opportunities for process improvement or cost savings within the commercial finance function.

Role Duties

In this role as a Finance Analyst (Commercial), you will be responsible for providing financial analysis and support to the commercial team in driving business growth and profitability within our organization based in the East Midlands. Here's an overview of the key responsibilities:

• Financial Analysis: Perform in-depth financial analysis, including budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis. Support the identification and assessment of financial risks and opportunities for the commercial team.

• Business Partnering: Act as a strategic partner to the commercial team, providing financial insights that support informed decision-making and drive business growth. Work closely with key stakeholders to understand their goals and provide tailored financial analysis to meet those objectives.

• Cost Management: Assist in managing costs across various commercial functions, identifying opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements. Develop and maintain cost models to aid in this process.

• Reporting and Performance Metrics: Prepare accurate and timely financial reports, including monthly management accounts, variance analyses, and ad-hoc reporting as required. Ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial data and metrics used by the commercial team.

• Process Improvement: Identify opportunities for process improvements within the finance function that support efficient and effective financial analysis and reporting. Implement changes to improve processes where necessary.

• Project Support: Provide financial support on selected commercial projects, including conducting financial feasibility studies, cash flow forecasting, and post-implementation review.

• Compliance: Ensure compliance with all relevant financial regulations and internal policies. Maintain accurate records and ensure timely submission of all required reports.

• Continuous Learning: Actively seek opportunities for professional development to keep up-to-date with financial trends, best practices, and new technologies in the finance industry.

Our Company

Welcome to our dynamic and growing organization based in the heart of the East Midlands region. We are a leading player in our industry, known for our commitment to innovation, excellence, and sustainability. Our company is built on a foundation of strong values, with a focus on customer satisfaction, employee development, and community engagement.

As part of our expansion plans, we have an exciting opportunity available for a highly skilled and motivated Finance Analyst (Commercial) to join our team on a 12-month fixed-term contract. This role will play a pivotal part in our commercial finance function, contributing to strategic decision-making and driving business growth.

Our company offers a vibrant and collaborative work environment where ideas are valued, and initiatives are supported. We pride ourselves on fostering a culture of continuous learning and development, encouraging our team members to reach their full potential.

In this role, you will have the opportunity to:

• Provide financial analysis and insight to support commercial decision-making across the business.
• Work closely with various stakeholders, including the finance team, sales, marketing, and operational departments.
• Assist in the development of financial models and forecasting tools.
• Collaborate on ad hoc projects as required by the business.

To be successful in this role, you will need to have:

• A strong educational background in Finance or a related field, with a professional qualification such as ACA, CFA, or CIMA preferred.
• Proven experience in a commercial finance role, preferably within a dynamic and growing organization.
• Excellent analytical skills and the ability to interpret complex financial data.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships across various departments.
• A proactive approach to work, with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively and meet deadlines.

If you are a forward-thinking Finance Analyst with a passion for driving business growth and making a meaningful impact, we would love to hear from you. Join us on our journey and contribute to our continued success in the East Midlands region.

To apply, please submit your updated CV and covering letter detailing why you are the ideal candidate for this opportunity. We look forward to hearing from you!

What We Offer

Welcome to an exciting opportunity as a *Finance Analyst (Commercial) - 12 Month FTC

• with us in the East Midlands! In this role, you will play a pivotal part in our dynamic and growing business.

As a Finance Analyst (Commercial), you will be responsible for supporting the financial analysis needs of the Commercial team. This role requires a strong analytical mindset with the ability to interpret complex data and provide actionable insights that can drive strategic decision-making.

• Perform financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and variance reporting for assigned business areas.

• Prepare detailed reports and presentations for senior management, ensuring accurate and timely information is provided.

• Collaborate with the Commercial team to develop financial models and assess the impact of strategic decisions on the company's financial position.

• Assist in the development of business plans and financial proposals.

• Conduct ad-hoc analyses as requested by senior management.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of financial systems, processes, and practices.

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field.

• Professional qualification such as ACA, CFA, or CIMA is desirable but not essential.

• Proven experience in a similar role within a commercial environment.

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and provide insightful financial analysis.

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to explain complex financial concepts clearly and concisely.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite, particularly Excel and PowerPoint. Experience with financial modeling tools such as Hyperion or Oracle is a plus.

• Strong attention to detail and ability to work accurately under tight deadlines.

• Ability to work collaboratively within a team and contribute to a positive working environment.

• Self-motivated, flexible, and able to manage competing priorities effectively.

We offer a competitive salary, a supportive and dynamic work environment, and the opportunity to grow and develop your career within our company. If you are passionate about finance, enjoy collaborating with others, and are looking for a challenging role within a thriving business, we would love to hear from you!

To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter outlining why you believe you would be a strong fit for this role. Please note that this is a 12-month fixed term contract. We look forward to reviewing your application!