At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial planning and analysis, manage a team, and enhance decision-making processes.
- Company: Join a dynamic multi-stakeholder organisation in Edinburgh focused on strategic finance.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working with one day in the office and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of transforming financial insights and making impactful decisions.
- Qualifications: Professional accountancy qualification and experience in financial planning required.
- Other info: Ideal for those passionate about leading teams and driving financial innovation.
The predicted salary is between 54000 - 84000 £ per year.
W&A is supporting the recruitment of a senior finance professional to lead the financial planning and analysis (FPA) function within a multi-stakeholder organisation. This is a strategic leadership role, with a focus on enhancing financial insight, forecasting, and long-term planning to support effective decision-making across all levels of the organisation.
Location: Edinburgh
Working Pattern: One day per week in the office
The Opportunity
The post-holder will lead the development of a forward-looking, insight-driven FPA capability. They will manage a team of analysts, contribute to organisation-wide planning, and help transition from traditional reporting models to a more agile, technology-enabled function.
Key Responsibilities
- Overseeing annual budget cycles and regular forecasting processes.
- Leading the development of long-range financial models and scenario analysis.
- Providing clear, actionable insight to senior leadership and planning groups.
- Supporting strategic decision-making through data-led performance analysis.
- Driving continuous improvement in financial systems, tools, and planning processes.
- Managing and mentoring a team of analysts to ensure high-quality output and development.
What You'll Bring
- A professional accountancy qualification and significant experience in financial planning and analysis.
- Proven ability to lead teams and work across organisational boundaries.
- Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Confidence working with forecasting models, planning tools, and large data sets.
- Ability to translate financial information into accessible insight for non-financial audiences.
- Experience supporting transformation programmes and evaluating strategic initiatives.
Financial Planning & Analysis Lead employer: Wilkinson and Associates
Contact Detail:
Wilkinson and Associates Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Planning & Analysis Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the finance sector, especially those who have experience in financial planning and analysis. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends in FPA.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest financial planning tools and technologies. Being well-versed in these can set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your commitment to enhancing the FPA function.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Highlight specific examples where your guidance led to improved performance or innovative solutions in financial analysis.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your ability to communicate complex financial information clearly. Practice explaining financial concepts in simple terms, as this will be crucial when engaging with non-financial stakeholders in the organisation.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Planning & Analysis Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in financial planning and analysis. Emphasise your leadership skills, particularly in managing teams and working across organisational boundaries, as these are key for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, focus on your strategic leadership experience and how you've enhanced financial insight in previous roles. Mention specific examples of how you've contributed to long-term planning and decision-making.
Showcase Relevant Skills: Clearly outline your professional accountancy qualifications and any relevant tools or software you are proficient in. Highlight your ability to work with forecasting models and large data sets, as well as your communication skills.
Prepare for Potential Questions: Think about how you would answer questions related to your experience with transformation programmes and strategic initiatives. Be ready to discuss how you've driven continuous improvement in financial systems and processes.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wilkinson and Associates
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Financial Planning & Analysis Lead, you'll be expected to manage a team of analysts. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, particularly in financial contexts.
✨Demonstrate Your Analytical Expertise
Highlight your experience with financial modelling and scenario analysis. Be ready to explain how you've used these skills to support strategic decision-making and improve financial processes in previous roles.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since you'll need to translate complex financial information for non-financial audiences, practice explaining financial concepts in simple terms. This will show your ability to engage with stakeholders effectively.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and how you handle forecasting challenges. Prepare examples of past situations where you had to adapt your financial strategies based on changing data or organisational needs.