6 FINANCIAL

PLANNING & ANALYSIS

ROLES

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CONTENT
1 FINANCIAL PLANNING & ANALYSIS SPECIALIST

2 𝗙𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗜𝗔𝗟 ANALYST

3 BUDGET ANALYST

4 COST ANALYST

5 MANAGER FINANCIAL PLANNING & ANALYSIS

6 HEAD OF FINANCIAL PLANNING & ANALYSIS

REQUIREMENTS FOR EACH ROLE

10 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
TECHNICAL, SOFT & SYSTEMS SKILLS

QUALIFICATIONS & CERTIFICATIONS

NUMBER OF YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

POTENTIAL PROGRESSION

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ROLE # 01 FP&A SPECIALIST
TECHNICAL SKILLS
10 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
• Strong financial analysis and modeling skills.
• Proficiency in financial planning and analysis
1. Assisting in the development and methodologies.
maintenance of financial models and • Familiarity with financial forecasting
forecasts. techniques.
2. Conducting variance analysis to identify • Understanding of financial statements and key
financial metrics.
trends and provide insights on financial
performance.
3. Participating in the budgeting and forecasting
processes. SOFT SKILLS
4. Preparing financial reports, presentations, and
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving
dashboards for management. • Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
5. Analyzing and interpreting financial data to • Effective communication and presentation
support decision-making. skills.
6. Collaborating with cross-functional teams to • Ability to work under pressure and meet
gather financial information and provide deadlines.
recommendations. • Collaborative and team-oriented mindset.
7. Monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs)
and providing insights on financial metrics.
8. Assisting in the evaluation of investment SYSTEMS & TOOLS
opportunities and business cases. • Proficiency in financial analysis software and
9. Supporting the preparation of financial tools.
analyses for strategic initiatives. • Advanced knowledge of Excel or other financial
10. Providing ad hoc financial analysis and software for data analysis.
reporting as required. • Experience with financial planning and business
intelligence systems.
* All info provided is based on my experience; specific requirements may vary • Familiarity with data visualization and reporting
among employers. Qualifications and Certifications are provided for reference. tools.

0 TO 2 YEARS
• EXPERIENCE
QUALIFICATION & CERTIFICATIONS
• Level Entry Level
,
• POTENTIAL Financial Analyst, Senior Financial Analyst • A bachelor's degree in finance, accounting,
PROGRESSION economics, or a related field.
• Professional certifications such as Certified
Management Accountant (CMA).
TYPICAL HIERARCHY POTENTIAL LEARNING • Strong knowledge of financial principles,
financial analysis techniques, and relevant
CFO System & Technical financial regulations is essential.
Tools, 30%
Head of
Skills, 50% • Consider these certifications for career
FP&A progression:
FP&A • Certified FP&A Professional by AFP
Manager • FMVA by CFI
FP&A
• Financial Modeling programs by Financial
Specialist Soft Skills, 20% Modeling Institute
ROLE # 02 FINANCIAL ANALYST
TECHNICAL SKILLS
10 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Strong financial analysis and modeling skills.
• Understanding of financial statements and key
1. Conducting financial analysis and modeling to financial metrics.
• Knowledge of financial forecasting and
support decision-making. budgeting techniques.
2. Analyzing financial data, such as income
statements, balance sheets, and cash flow
statements.
3. Identifying trends and patterns in financial
performance and making recommendations
for improvement. SOFT SKILLS
4. Preparing financial reports, forecasts, and
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving.
budgets. • Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
5. Conducting industry and market research to • Effective communication and presentation
provide insights on financial trends. skills.
6. Evaluating investment opportunities and • Ability to work independently and in teams.
conducting financial due diligence. • Strong organizational and time management
7. Assisting in the preparation of business cases skills.
and financial feasibility studies.
8. Monitoring and tracking key performance
indicators (KPIs) and providing insights on SYSTEMS & TOOLS
financial metrics.
• Proficiency in using financial software and tools.
9. Collaborating with cross-functional teams to • Advanced Excel skills for financial modeling and
gather financial information and provide data analysis.
recommendations. • Ability to use consolidation and reporting tools.
10. Presenting financial analysis findings to • Boost your career by keeping up to date
management and stakeholders. knowledge of existing or new FP&A tools and
* All info provided is based on my experience; specific requirements may vary software.
among employers. Qualifications and Certifications are provided for reference.

2 to 4YEARS
• EXPERIENCE
QUALIFICATION & CERTIFICATIONS
• Level Mid Level
• POTENTIAL Senior Financial Analyst, Manager FP&A • A bachelor's degree in finance, accounting,
PROGRESSION economics, or a related field.
• Some employers may prefer candidates with a
master's degree in finance or an MBA.
TYPICAL HIERARCHY POTENTIAL LEARNING • Professional certifications such CFA and CMA
designation can enhance one's qualifications.
CFO System & Technical
• Familiarity with GAAP & IFRS is advantageous.
Tools, 30% Skills, 40%
Head of • Consider these certifications for career
FP&A progression:
FP&A • Certified FP&A Professional by AFP
Manager • FMVA by CFI
Financial
• Financial Modeling programs by Financial
Analyst Soft Skills, 30% Modeling Institute
ROLE # 03 BUDGET ANALYST
TECHNICAL SKILLS
10 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Proficiency in financial analysis and budgeting
techniques.
1. Assisting in the development and • Knowledge of budgeting principles and
implementation of budgeting processes and practices.
procedures. • Understanding of financial forecasting and
2. Collecting and analyzing financial data to variance analysis.
prepare budget estimates and forecasts.
3. Reviewing budget proposals and ensuring
alignment with organizational objectives.
4. Monitoring budget execution and tracking SOFT SKILLS
variances between budgeted and actual
expenses. • Strong analytical and critical-thinking abilities.
5. Identifying trends, risks, and opportunities • Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
related to budget performance. • Effective communication and interpersonal
6. Collaborating with departments or project skills.
teams to gather budget information and • Ability to work independently and in teams.
• Strong organizational and time management
assumptions.
skills.
7. Providing financial insights and
recommendations to support budget decision-
making.
8. Assisting in the preparation of budget reports, SYSTEMS & TOOLS
presentations, and documentation. • Proficiency in using budgeting software and
9. Conducting financial analysis to assess the spreadsheets.
financial impact of budgetary decisions. • Data analysis and reporting skills.
10. Staying up-to-date with budgeting best • Advanced Excel skills for financial modeling and
practices and regulatory requirements. analysis.
* All info provided is based on my experience; specific requirements may vary
• Boost your career by keeping up to date
among employers. Qualifications and Certifications are provided for reference. knowledge of existing or new FP&A tools and
software.
2 to 4 YEARS
• EXPERIENCE
QUALIFICATION & CERTIFICATIONS
• Level Mid Level
• POTENTIAL Senior Budget Analyst, Budgeting and • A bachelor's degree in finance & accounting,
PROGRESSION Forecasting Manager • Some employers may prefer candidates with a
master's degree in finance or an MBA.
• Professional certifications such as CMA
TYPICAL HIERARCHY POTENTIAL LEARNING Consider these certifications for career
progression:
CFO System & Technical • Certified FP&A Professional by AFP
Tools, 30%
Head of
Skills, 50% • FMVA by CFI
FP&A • Financial Modeling programs by FMI
FP&A • Certified Government Financial Manager
Manager • CFBM™ offered by CIPC
Budget
• Certified Budget Specialist offered by
Analyst Soft Skills, 20% AAIFM
ROLE # 04 COST ANALYST
TECHNICAL SKILLS
10 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES • Knowledge of cost accounting principles and
practices.
1. Analyzing costs and preparing cost reports for • Knowledge of manufacturing processes and cost
management. allocation methods.
2. Collecting and analyzing data to determine • Proficiency in cost accounting methodologies
the cost of manufacturing products or and techniques.
providing services. • Understanding of financial analysis and variance
3. Conducting variance analysis to compare analysis.
actual costs with budgeted costs.
4. Assisting in the development and SOFT SKILLS
maintenance of cost accounting systems and
processes. • Strong analytical and critical-thinking abilities.
5. Calculating and analyzing standard costs for • Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
materials, labor, and overhead. • Effective communication and interpersonal
6. Participating in the development and skills.
evaluation of cost-saving initiatives. • Ability to work independently and in teams.
• Strong organizational and time management
7. Preparing cost estimates for new products or
skills.
services.
8. Assisting in the preparation of financial
statements and reports related to costs.
9. Collaborating with cross-functional teams to SYSTEMS & TOOLS
gather cost-related information. • Proficiency in using cost accounting software.
10. Staying up-to-date with cost accounting • Data analysis and reporting skills.
regulations and best practices. • Advanced Excel skills for financial modeling and
analysis.
• Boost your career by keeping up to date
* All info provided is based on my experience; specific requirements may vary
knowledge of existing or new FP&A tools and
among employers. Qualifications and Certifications are provided for reference. software.

2 to 4 YEARS
• EXPERIENCE
QUALIFICATION & CERTIFICATIONS
• Level Mid Level
• POTENTIAL Senior Cost Analyst, Costing Manager • A bachelor's degree in finance & accounting,
PROGRESSION • Some employers may prefer candidates with a
focus on cost accounting certification.
• Professional certifications such as CMA.
TYPICAL HIERARCHY POTENTIAL LEARNING • Consider these certifications for career
progression:
CFO System & Technical • Certified FP&A Professional by AFP
Tools, 30%
Head of
Skills, 50% • FMVA by CFI
FP&A • Financial Modeling programs by FMI
• Certified Cost Analyst by AFAP
FP&A
Manager

Cost
Analyst Soft Skills, 20%

ROLE # 05
10 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Manage the development, implementation, and
continuous improvement of financial planning
processes, including budgeting, forecasting, and
long-term plans.
2. Analyze financial and operational performance,
providing insights to support decision-making.
3. Monitor actual financial results against forecasts
and budgets, investigating and explaining
significant variances.
4. Prepare and present accurate and timely
management reports, dashboards, and
presentations to senior management.
5. Collaborate with various departments to provide
financial expertise, guidance, and support.
6. Develop and assess different financial scenarios
to evaluate potential risks and opportunities.
7. Identify cost-saving opportunities and
recommend strategies to optimize resources.
8. Manage accurate and reliable financial forecasts
to assist in strategic planning.
9. Utilize financial and operational data to generate
insights and trends, helping drive data-driven
decision-making across the organization.
10. Manage and mentor a team of financial analysts,
guiding their professional growth and ensuring
high-quality financial analysis and reporting.
* All info provided is based on my experience; specific requirements may vary
among employers. Qualifications and Certifications are provided for reference.
5 to 7 YEARS
• EXPERIENCE
• Level Middle Management
• POTENTIAL Director/Head of FP&A
PROGRESSION
TYPICAL HIERARCHY POTENTIAL LEARNING
System &
CFO Tools, 20%
Head of FP&A
Soft Skills,
FP&A 50%
Manager
MANAGER
FINANCIAL PLANNING & ANALYSIS
TECHNICAL SKILLS
• In-depth knowledge of financial planning,
budgeting, and forecasting.
• Proficiency in financial analysis and modeling.
• Understanding of financial performance metrics
and KPIs, data analysis and interpretation,
probability analysis, and cost management.
SOFT SKILLS
• Leadership and people management skills.
• Strong focus on mentoring and team
development
• Excellent communication & interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work with cross-functional teams.
• Analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strategic thinking and decision-making skills.
SYSTEMS & TOOLS
• Knowledge of leading reporting and data
analytic software and tools
• Advanced Excel skills for financial modeling and
analysis.
• Ability to support major software or tools
implementation.
• ERP, Data Visualization, and business
intelligence tools.
QUALIFICATION & CERTIFICATIONS
• A bachelor's degree in finance & accounting,
• Some employers may prefer candidates with a
focus on cost accounting certification.
• Professional certifications such as CMA or CPA.
• Recommended certifications:
• Certified FP&A Professional by AFP
Technical
Skills, 30%
• FMVA by CFI
• Financial Modeling programs by FMI
• Certified Cost Analyst by AFAP
• Data Analytics & Visualization
Certifications

ROLE # 06
10 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Develop and execute the overall financial
strategy, aligning financial goals with the
company's strategic objectives.
2. Provide guidance, mentorship, and strategic
direction to the FP&A team.
3. Oversee the budgeting and forecasting
processes, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
4. Lead the preparation and presentation of
comprehensive financial reports and analysis for
senior management and stakeholders.
5. Provide in-depth financial insights to support
executive decision-making and drive growth.
6. Identify and analyze financial risks and
opportunities, proposing strategies to mitigate
risks and capitalize on opportunities.
7. Collaborate with Investor Relations teams to
communicate financial performance and
forecasts to external stakeholders.
8. Participate in due diligence, financial modeling,
and integration activities for potential mergers,
acquisitions, or divestitures.
9. Partner with other departments to ensure
financial alignment for strategic initiatives.
10. Drive process enhancements and automation
within the FP&A function to improve efficiency
and accuracy.
* All info provided is based on my experience; specific requirements may vary
among employers. Qualifications and Certifications are provided for reference.
10+ YEARS
• EXPERIENCE
• LEVEL Senior Management
• POTENTIAL VP of Finance, CFO
PROGRESSION
TYPICAL HIERARCHY POTENTIAL LEARNING
System &
Tools, 10%
CFO
Head/Director
Soft Skills,
of FP&A 60%
HEAD OF
FINANCIAL PLANNING & ANALYSIS
TECHNICAL SKILLS
• In-depth knowledge of financial planning,
budgeting, and forecasting.
• Strategic Planning and Execution
• Financial Reporting and Communication
• Leadership and Team Management
• Risk Management
• Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) Experience
SOFT SKILLS
• Strong Leadership and People Management
• Strategic Thinking and Decision-Making
• Communication and Presentation Skills
• Influence and Negotiation, Conflict Resolution
• Problem-Solving in Complex Situations
• Change Management and Adaptability
• Emotional Intelligence and Relationship
• Analytical and Critical Thinking
SYSTEMS & TOOLS
• Thorough knowledge of leading reporting and
data analytic software and tools
• Advanced Excel skills for financial modeling and
analysis.
• Strong ability to lead major software or tools
implementation by identifying and assessing
the current and future needs of the
organization.
QUALIFICATION & CERTIFICATIONS
• A bachelor's degree in finance & accounting,
• Some employers may prefer candidates with a
master’s in finance, accounting, or business.
• Professional certifications such as CMA or CPA.
• Recommended certifications:
• Advanced Leadership Training
Technical
• Strategic Management Certification
Skills, 20%
• Executive Presentation Skills
• Mergers and Acquisitions Course
Sharing
Knowledge to
Boost Learning
Follow Abdul Khaliq

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