Sr Financial Analyst

Senior Financial Analyst in a Third-Party Logistics (3PL) company plays a crucial role in financial planning, analysis, and decision-making support. This position involves a blend of analytical prowess, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of the logistics and supply chain industry. Here's a detailed job description:

Responsibilities:

Financial Planning and Analysis: Lead the budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning processes. Analyze financial data to identify trends, forecast future performance, and provide actionable insights to management.

Cost Analysis and Management: Conduct detailed cost analysis to identify areas for cost reduction and efficiency improvements across the supply chain. Monitor operational costs, comparing actual costs to forecasts, and analyze variances to support cost control measures.

Performance Reporting: Develop and maintain financial reports to track key performance indicators (KPIs), operational metrics, and other critical data points relevant to the 3PL industry. Ensure accurate and timely reporting to support executive decision-making.

Job Costing and Profitability Analysis: Lead the development and implementation of a job costing system to accurately track costs and revenues associated with individual projects or customer contracts. Analyze job profitability and provide insights to improve margins and drive financial performance.

Shipping Expense Analysis: Conduct comprehensive analysis of shipping expenses, including carrier costs, fuel surcharges, and other logistics-related fees. Benchmark costs against industry standards and negotiate with carriers or implement strategies to optimize shipping expense management.

Cost Allocation and Recovery: Develop methodologies for allocating overhead and operational costs to specific jobs or services. Ensure accurate cost recovery through pricing strategies and customer billing processes.

Financial Oversight of Logistics Operations: Provide financial oversight for logistics operations, including warehousing, transportation, and distribution. Analyze operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness to identify opportunities for cost savings and service improvement.

Strategic Support: Provide financial modeling and analysis for strategic projects, new business opportunities, and investment decisions. Evaluate the financial viability of new initiatives and provide recommendations based on financial and strategic considerations.

Risk Management: Identify financial risks and opportunities within the 3PL operations and market environment. Develop strategies to mitigate risks and capitalize on opportunities.

Collaboration and Communication: Work closely with operational, sales, and executive teams to align financial goals with business objectives. Communicate financial insights and recommendations effectively to non-financial stakeholders.

Compliance and Controls: Ensure compliance with financial regulations and company policies. Support internal and external audits by providing necessary data and analysis. Maintain strong internal controls over financial processes and reporting.

Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field. A Master's degree or professional certifications (e.g., CFA, MBA) is a plus.

Experience: 3 to 5 years of experience in financial analysis, preferably in the logistics, supply chain, or related industry. Experience in a 3PL environment is highly valued.

Skills: Strong analytical and quantitative skills, proficiency in financial modeling and forecasting, excellent communication and presentation skills, and a thorough understanding of financial statements. Proficiency with financial software and advanced Excel skills are essential.

Industry Knowledge: Knowledge of the logistics and supply chain industry, including an understanding of 3PL operations, cost drivers, and market dynamics.

Personal Attributes:

Analytical Thinking: Ability to dissect complex data and derive meaningful insights.

Strategic Perspective: Capable of understanding the big picture and contributing to strategic decisions.

Detail-Oriented: Precision and attention to detail in financial analysis and reporting.

Adaptability: Ability to adapt to changing market conditions and business needs.

Team Player: Collaborative mindset with strong interpersonal skills to work effectively across teams.

Expertise in Cost Accounting: Strong understanding of cost accounting principles and experience in applying them to job costing and expense management in a logistics context.

Experience with Logistics Software: Familiarity with logistics and supply chain management software, including Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), is strongly preferred.