Finance Analyst

Role Overview

We are seeking a detail-oriented and analytical Finance Analyst to join our dynamic finance team in Crewe. The successful candidate will be responsible for financial planning, analysis, and reporting, playing a key role in driving business performance. You will leverage your expertise in financial systems, particularly IBM Cognos TM1 or Analytics, to develop insightful reports, manage budgeting and forecasting processes, and support strategic decision-making across the organisation.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and enhance financial models for budgeting, forecasting, and long-range planning using TM1/Cognos.
• Analyse monthly financial results, providing insightful commentary on variances against budget, forecast, and prior year to senior management.
• Partner with various business units to provide financial support, challenge assumptions, and ensure the integrity of financial data.
• Assist in the preparation of management reporting packs, board presentations, and ad-hoc financial analysis to support strategic initiatives.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of finance processes and systems, identifying opportunities for automation and efficiency.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Finance Analyst, Commercial Analyst, or similar role.
• Demonstrable, hands-on experience with either IBM Cognos TM1 or IBM Cognos Analytics.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel (VLOOKUPs, pivot tables, complex formulas).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and numerical skills with high attention to detail.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to present complex financial information to non-finance stakeholders.
• Part-qualified (CIMA/ACCA) or qualified by experience.

Nice-to-Have Qualifications

• Fully qualified accountant (CIMA, ACCA, ACA).
• Experience with SQL and data visualisation tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau).
• Previous experience within a manufacturing, logistics, or large corporate environment.