Job Title: Specialist Financial Analyst – Central Global Opex management Team (IC3)
Role Summary
The Specialist Financial Analyst (IC3) is a high-impact individual contributor responsible for end-to-end ownership of Operating Expense forecasting and management for assigned Lines of Business (LOBs) and regions.
This role drives forecasting accuracy, leveraging automation and strategic insights through advanced use of Enterprise Performance Management (EPM) systems, analytics and AI-driven tools. The individual acts as a trusted finance partner to business stakeholders and plays a key role in improving forecasting accuracy and operational efficiency.
Key Responsibilities
1. Forecasting & Financial Ownership
Own OPEX forecasting process for assigned LOBs/regions.
Develop accurate run-rate models and driver-based forecasts.
Lead annual budget cycles.
Analyze variances vs Forecast and Prior Year
Provide actionable insights to business leaders.
2. Business Partnering
Partner with business leaders to understand cost drivers and strategic initiatives.
Challenge assumptions constructively and provide financial guidance
Translate financial data into business language for decision-making.
3. Automation & Process Excellence
Leverage automation tools to streamline forecasting processes.
Drive standardization across LOBs/regions.
Identify efficiency opportunities and eliminate manual work.
Support continuous improvement initiatives across the OPEX function.
4. Analytics & AI Enablement
Utilize advanced analytics to detect trends, anomalies, and risk areas.
Leverage AI-powered forecasting tools to improve accuracy.
Support predictive modeling and scenario planning.
Required Technical Skills
- Financial & Analytical Skills
Strong understanding of FP&A principles and OPEX management
Advanced variance analysis and driver-based forecasting
Scenario modeling and sensitivity analysis
Strong Excel skills (advanced formulas, pivot tables, modeling)
Hands-on experience with Enterprise Performance Management (EPM) tools
Oracle EPM / Hyperion / Planning
Experience with Business Intelligence & Analytics tools - Power BI / Tableau / similar
Familiarity with AI-driven forecasting or predictive analytics tools
Behavioral & Personality Traits
We are looking for someone who demonstrates:
- Structured & Detail-Oriented
- Influencing & Communication Skills
- Continuous Improvement Orientation
- Collaborative & Supportive
Takes full accountability for numbers
Proactively identifies risks and proposes solutions
Naturally questions trends and anomalies
Goes beyond reporting to uncover insights
High accuracy in financial analysis
Strong discipline in data validation
Confident in engaging with senior stakeholders
Ability to simplify complex financial topics
Passionate about automation and efficiency
Embraces technology and AI adoption
Works effectively in cross-functional teams
Shares knowledge and best practices
Experience & Qualifications
- 6–9 years of experience in FP&A or OPEX management
- Experience in a multinational / matrixed organization preferred
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field
MBA / CA / CPA (preferred but not mandatory)
What Success Looks Like in This Role
- High forecast accuracy and reduced variance volatility
- Increased automation and reduced manual effort
- Strong stakeholder confidence and trust
- Improved transparency through dashboards and analytics
- Active contribution to AI-enabled forecasting maturity