Financial Planning Specialist

Job title : Financial Planning Specialist

Role Description: The Financial Planning Specialist is a full-time, on-site role based in Victoria Island, Lagos.

This role is responsible for developing and maintaining financial plans, budgets, and forecasts to support strategic and operational decision-making. Responsible for building and maintaining detailed day-to-day financial models, performing variance analysis, and ensuring data integrity across financial planning systems. Supports the team in analysing and developing reports for assigned projects.

Qualifications

• Relevant academic background such as a bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field; professional certifications (e.g., CFA, ACCA, CPA) are an advantage.
• Experience: 3-5+ years of experience in financial analysis or planning.
• Candidates should possess strong Financial Planning and Finance skills, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial modelling.
• Candidates should possess solid Analytical Skills to interpret complex data, identify trends, and support data-driven decisions.
• Candidates should possess Accounting and Financial Reporting skills to ensure accurate records and timely management reports.
• Candidates should possess proficiency in spreadsheet and financial analysis tools (e.g., Excel, financial software) and a strong attention to detail.
• Experience in real estate, infrastructure, or project-based environments in emerging markets is beneficial.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Financial Planning and Analysis

• Build and maintain detailed financial models for assigned projects using Excel and other financial planning tools.
• Update existing financial models with actual performance data and revised assumptions.
• Perform sensitivity analysis and scenario modelling to assess project outcomes.
• Review financial models for accuracy and consistency with established standards.
• Document model assumptions, calculations, and methodologies.

Data Collection and Forecasting

• Gather financial and operational data from various departments (Sales, Operations, etc.).
• Validate data accuracy and completeness, investigating and resolving discrepancies.
• Analyze historical data to identify trends and patterns for forecasting.
• Support the development of project budgets and forecasts.
• Maintain databases of historical performance metrics and assumptions.

Financial Reporting

• Prepare monthly/quarterly financial performance reports for assigned projects.
• Create clear and concise presentations of financial analysis for management review.
• Generate standard and ad-hoc reports as requested by team leadership.
• Ensure reports are delivered according to established timelines.
• Design and update reporting templates to improve efficiency.

Variance Analysis

• Compare actual project performance against budgeted figures.
• Identify significant variances and investigate root causes.
• Document explanations for variances from stakeholders.
• Track and report on key performance indicators.
• Suggest potential corrective actions based on variance analysis.

Project Support

• Participate in project review meetings to provide financial insights.
• Support the development of business cases for new initiatives.
• Assist in financial evaluation of project alternatives.
• Maintain project documentation and files.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to gather required information.

Data Management

• Ensure data integrity in financial planning systems.
• Maintain organised records of all financial analyses and reports.
• Document processes and procedures for financial planning activities.
• Support process improvement initiatives.
• Keep track of version control for financial models and reports.

Team Support

• Assist senior team members with complex analyses and special projects.
• Contribute to the development of best practices and standards.
• Help prepare materials for management presentations.
• Support knowledge sharing within the team.
• Flag potential issues or concerns to team leadership promptly.