Job Description

Financial Planning And Analysis Job Description

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Job Description

The primary role of a Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) professional is to analyze an organization’s financial situation, support decision-making, and recommend actions to improve financial health. FP&A specialists work on data collection, budget management, forecasting, scenario analysis, and strategic planning to help organizations achieve their goals[1][3].

Typical Responsibilities:

  • Assess the financial state of individuals, corporations, or organizations by analyzing financial statements and data[1].
  • Compile detailed financial reports and assemble extensive financial databases[1].
  • Create budgets, manage budget execution, and perform ongoing variance analysis comparing budget versus actual results[3][5].
  • Develop short- and long-term financial projections, conduct scenario and sensitivity analyses, and perform ad hoc reporting and analysis[3][7].
  • Present findings and recommendations to management or board members, supporting strategic and operational decisions[3][7].
  • Evaluate new projects, investments, or assets, assessing their potential value and risks[5].
  • Maintain and improve financial models, policies, and cost analysis procedures[5][6].
  • Continuously update skills and technical knowledge, and work closely with team members to meet organizational goals[1].

Key Skills and Qualifications:

  • Strong analytical and quantitative skills, including data gathering and financial modeling[6].
  • Proficiency in financial systems, database management, and Excel or data query tools[5][6].
  • Solid understanding of accounting principles and financial reporting standards[6].
  • Attention to detail, excellent problem-solving, and strong communication skills[6].
  • Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or a related field; Master’s degree or MBA preferred for senior roles[5].

Common FP&A Functions:

  • Budgeting and forecasting
  • Management reporting
  • Financial, operational, and scenario analysis
  • Strategic planning
  • Business performance monitoring and KPI development[3][7].

Career Path and Compensation:

  • Entry-level FP&A analysts typically have 1-3 years of experience and often advance to senior analyst or manager roles with additional experience and education[5][6].
  • The average annual salary for a Financial Planning Analyst in the United States ranges from about $67,000 to $93,000, with an average of around $79,000 to $91,000 depending on experience, location, and company size[2][6].
  • Salaries can rise above $100,000 at the senior analyst or manager level[2].

References

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