Amber Labs | Financial Planning Analyst

FP&A Analyst

The Company

We are a specialist Data Engineering, Cloud and Analytics consultancy focused on supporting our clients in successfully delivering on their digital transformation programmes. Our aim is to ensure we deliver value from our client’s data using innovative approaches that improve their data capabilities, analytics and data governance.

With demand for our services from our clients at an all-time high and continuous growth and success within our market sector, we are expanding our back office team and keen to recruit a talented Accounts Assistant to join our Finance department.

The Role

The FP&A Analyst is responsible for driving robust financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and analysis processes to support informed decision-making. Working closely with the Head of Finance and cross-functional teams, this role will transform raw operational and financial data into actionable insights that help guide strategic decisions, improve profitability, and drive efficiencies. The FP&A Analyst will have significant exposure to senior leadership and contribute directly to shaping the company’s growth trajectory.

Key Responsibilities:

Forecasting & Budgeting:

• Develop, maintain, and improve detailed financial models, including annual budgets, quarterly reforecasts, and long-range strategic plans.
• Integrate sales pipeline data, project backlog, resource utilisation, and consultant headcount assumptions into rolling forecasts.

Reporting & Analysis:

• Prepare monthly and quarterly financial performance reports, including variance analysis of actuals versus budgets/forecasts.
• Produce project-level profitability reports, highlighting key drivers of margin and utilisation and identifying improvement opportunities.
• Present insights in a clear, concise manner to the Head of Finance, Operations, and other stakeholders.

Scenario Modelling & Strategic Support:

• Conduct scenario and sensitivity analyses to evaluate the financial impact of changes in staffing, pricing, client mix, and sales pipeline conversion.
• Partner with Sales, Operations, and HR teams to model the financial implications of new initiatives, resource allocations, and market expansions.
• Provide data-driven recommendations to senior management on cost optimisation, pricing strategies, and investment decisions.

Data Integration & Process Improvement:

• Work with operational teams to ensure seamless integration of timesheet, billing, and pipeline data into financial models.
• Help identify and implement improvements in financial systems, reporting tools, and processes to enhance data quality and reduce manual work.
• Collaborate with IT and operations to explore new technologies or software solutions (e.g., BI tools, FP&A software) that streamline reporting and analytics.

Stakeholder Management:

• Liaise with project managers, operations leads, and sales team to understand business drivers and incorporate qualitative insights into financial analyses.
• Communicate findings and recommendations effectively to non-finance stakeholders, translating complex financial concepts into business implications.

Experience:

• 5+ years of relevant experience in FP&A, financial analysis, corporate finance, or management consulting.
• Experience in a professional services, consulting, or technology-driven environment preferred.

Technical Skills:

• Strong proficiency in Excel and financial modelling.
• Familiarity with accounting and ERP systems (ideally Xero) and reporting/BI tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) is a plus.
• Understanding of PSA (Professional Services Automation) tools or time-tracking/project accounting systems beneficial.

Analytical & Business Acumen:

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to handle complex data sets and draw meaningful conclusions.
• Solid understanding of P&L drivers, margins, and utilisation metrics within a services context.

Soft Skills:

• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders and present complex data in a simple manner.
• Detail-oriented and organised, with a penchant for continuous improvement.
• Able to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment.

Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business, or a related field. An advanced degree (MBA) or relevant certifications (e.g., CFA, CIMA) a plus.