Financial Analyst - Retail Operating Expenses

Purpose:

Provide executional support in financial planning, controlling, and analysis for the US Retail Brick & Mortar Channel's operating expenses (OPEX). This role focuses on data accuracy, entry, monitoring, and preparation of reports for management and business partners, highlighting discrepancies, trends, and insights.

Key Accountabilities:

• OPEX Monitoring: Assist in the ongoing monitoring and controlling of retail operating expenses, ensuring alignment with financial plans and budgets.
• Data Entry and Forecasting: Accurately input OPEX data for monthly forecasts and budgets, ensuring detailed tracking and adherence to financial standards.
• Variance Analysis: Track actual expenses against forecasts, investigating discrepancies, and providing detailed variance explanations.
• Financial Reporting: Prepare and maintain financial reports, presenting clear and accurate data to management and business partners, while identifying trends and providing recommendations on forecast adjustments.
• Support Accounting Processes: Collaborate closely with the Accounting team to manage accruals, reconciliations, and expense entries related to retail OPEX.
• Ad-Hoc Analysis: Perform ad-hoc financial analyses to support operational needs, ensuring accuracy and clarity in data reporting.
• Business Partnering: Engage with management and other teams, calling out discrepancies, discussing trends, and offering actionable insights to improve forecast accuracy and OPEX management.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities:

• Strong Accounting Knowledge: Solid understanding of accounting principles and financial controls, with a focus on accurate data management and compliance.
• Attention to Detail: High level of attention to detail, ensuring accuracy in data entry, financial reporting, and variance analysis.
• Analytical Skills: Ability to identify discrepancies, recognize trends, and provide insights into forecast adjustments.
• Proficiency in Excel: Advanced Excel skills are required to support data management and reporting.
• Organizational Skills: Capable of managing multiple tasks simultaneously, ensuring timely and accurate execution of responsibilities.
• Effective Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly present data findings, address questions, and engage with management and business partners.

Qualifications (Minimum required education and experience):

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field.
• 1-2 years of experience in a finance or accounting role, preferably within a retail environment.
• Strong accounting background, with emphasis on controlling and data accuracy.
• Advanced Excel skills required; experience with SAP, TM1, or similar systems is a plus.