Senior Financial Analyst, Commercial Finance
WFA Digital Insight
The demand for skilled financial analysts in the consumer packaged goods industry has seen a significant surge, with roles like this one at Ocean Spray Cranberries becoming increasingly competitive. As companies navigate complex market trends and strive for data-driven decision-making, professionals with a strong background in financial planning and analysis are in high demand. With the ability to work remotely, this role offers the flexibility that many professionals are seeking in today's job market. Before applying, candidates should be aware of the importance of having a comprehensive understanding of business drivers and the ability to communicate financial insights effectively to cross-functional teams.
Job Description
About the Role
The Senior Financial Analyst, Commercial Finance, is a pivotal role at Ocean Spray Cranberries, designed to provide critical financial analysis, reporting, and insights that inform business decisions across the organization. This position is part of a dynamic team that values flexibility and is open to remote work arrangements, offering candidates the opportunity to join a forward-thinking company. The role involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams to drive forecasting, planning, and performance management processes, identifying risks and opportunities that impact the business.As a key member of the commercial finance team, the Senior Financial Analyst will be responsible for leading the month-end close process, analyzing monthly variances, and preparing comprehensive management reporting packages. This includes tracking key performance metrics and providing actionable insights to commercial and finance leadership. The ideal candidate is someone who is not only analytical and detail-oriented but also able to translate complex data into clear, actionable recommendations.
Ocean Spray Cranberries is a farmer-owned cooperative with a rich history and a commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. The company prides itself on a culture that values hard work, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence. By joining Ocean Spray, the Senior Financial Analyst will become part of a team that is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of its customers and stakeholders.
What You Will Do
- Lead the month-end close process, consolidating and analyzing monthly variances across the business.
- Assume ownership for management reporting packages and tracking of various key performance metrics.
- Support forecasting and budgeting routines by partnering with cross-functional teams to incorporate key assumptions, risks, and opportunities.
- Continuously improve forecast accuracy by identifying trends, gaps, and process enhancements.
- Prepare and deliver management reporting, providing specific, actionable, and forward-looking commentary on changes and guidance on potential risks and opportunities.
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the business drivers across the full P&L, including volume/sales, trade, COGS, marketing, SG&A, and price/volume/mix analysis.
- Support sales finance activities, including promotion effectiveness, pricing, and trade investment analysis in partnership with Trade Planning and RGM teams.
- Build financial models and scenario analyses to support key decision-making, leveraging advanced data processing and automation functionalities.
- Develop partnerships with business teams for new product innovation, working cross-functionally to build P&Ls and assess the financial viability of projects.
- Champion an analytical mindset and discipline to provide data-driven financial advisory across cross-functional teams.
What We Are Looking For
- 3-5+ years of work experience in relevant fields, such as FP&A, Finance Decision Support, Corporate Finance, or Data Analytics.
- Consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry experience and a strong understanding of business, brand, and customer strategy.
- Demonstrated ability to analyze financial statements, validate accruals, and ensure adherence to accounting principles.
- Robust analytical skills, with a focus on problem-solving and continuous process improvement.
- Strong emphasis on business partnership, with the ability to effectively communicate and work cross-functionally.
- Results-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced work environment.
- Highly proficient use of Excel, PowerPoint, and other Microsoft products.
- Experience leveraging ERP systems to support financial operations, including data analysis, reporting, and preparation/posting of journal entries.
Nice to Have
- Experience with TPM systems, such as Blacksmith, is a plus.
- Familiarity with advanced data analysis tools and technologies.
- Previous experience working in a remote or distributed team environment.
- Certification in a relevant field, such as an MBA or a professional accounting designation.
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Opportunity to work remotely and enjoy a better work-life balance.
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment.
- Professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and career.
- Access to advanced tools and technologies to support your work.
- Recognition and reward for outstanding performance and contributions.
- Comprehensive health and wellness programs.
- Generous PTO and holiday schedule.
How to Stand Out
- Ensure your resume and cover letter highlight your analytical skills and experience with financial analysis and planning.
- Prepare examples of how you've improved forecast accuracy and provided actionable insights in previous roles.
- Familiarize yourself with Ocean Spray's products and mission to demonstrate your interest in the company and industry.
- Be prepared to discuss your experience with Excel and other Microsoft products, as well as any ERP systems or advanced data analysis tools.
- Show enthusiasm for working in a remote environment and your ability to self-manage and collaborate with a distributed team.
- Consider creating a portfolio of your work, including examples of financial models, scenario analyses, or management reporting packages you've developed.
- Don't hesitate to ask about the company culture and values during the interview process to ensure alignment with your own professional goals and aspirations.
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