What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manager of Financial Planning & Analysis position at Farouk Systems Inc?
We are seeking a strategic and analytical Manager of Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) to lead our financial forecasting, budgeting, and cost accounting functions. In this high-impact role, you will bridge the gap between operational data and financial strategy, providing the insights necessary to drive profitability in our hair care manufacturing lines. Beyond core FP&A duties, you will serve as a key partner to the Controller, supporting general accounting activities and ensuring that our SAP environment delivers "clean" and actionable financial data.
Duties & Responsibilities:
Financial Planning & Forecasting
- Lead the annual budgeting process and monthly rolling forecasts, collaborating with department heads.
- Analyze variances between actuals and forecasts, providing clear narratives on drivers such as raw material price fluctuations or shifting labor/overhead costs.
- Develop long-range financial models to evaluate new product launches or capital expenditures in the manufacturing facility.
Cost Accounting & Operational Oversight
- Oversee the Cost Accounting department to ensure accurate standard costing, inventory valuation, and COGS analysis.
- Monitor manufacturing variances (price, efficiency, and volume) and partner with the production team to identify waste-reduction opportunities.
- Ensure the accurate tracking of chemicals, packaging, and components within the production lifecycle.
Advanced Reporting & Analysis
- Design and maintain ad-hoc reports and dashboards that translate complex SAP data into executive-level insights.
- Conduct margin analysis by product line, customer, and distribution channel to optimize the sales mix.
- Leverage SAP (FI/CO and MM modules) to automate reporting workflows and improve data integrity.
Controller & General Accounting Support
- Assist the Controller with month-end and year-end closing activities, ensuring GAAP compliance.
- Support the preparation of financial statements and coordinate with external auditors for annual reviews.
- Manage special projects related to internal controls, tax compliance, or SAP system enhancements.
Education & Experience:
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or Economics. An MBA or CMA/CPA designation is highly preferred.
- Experience: 6 years of progressive experience in FP&A or Finance, with specific experience in a manufacturing environment.
- SAP Expertise: Advanced proficiency in SAP is required. Must be comfortable navigating cost centers, profit centers, and internal orders.
Skills & Abilities:
- Technical Skills: Expert-level Excel modeling (3-statement models, sensitivity analysis).
- Experience with ERP software (SAP preferred)
- Experience with SAP Analytics Cloud is a plus.
- Experience with Data Visualization tools (Power BI or Tableau) is a plus.
- Exceptional communication skills to explain financial "whys" to non-financial stakeholders.