Financial Analyst I

Key Accountabilities:

Analysis & Reporting

Create accurate, transparent, and timely financial analysis to support project leadership in project decision making process; clearly articulate financial implications of business decisions / choices, and provide retrospective analysis as well as drive forward looking actions on simpler projects / contract types

For less complex projects facilitate the monthly revenue cycle and support project analysis requirements, including a review of units, forecast, unit prices, and revenue recognition. Ensure appropriate supporting documentation is available and that the forecast is aligned with operational plans. Complete all required variance analyses for the set of projects, with insight. Identify risks in the project forecast and opportunities to improve revenue outlook.

Communicate, document and manage these on an ongoing message.

Understand alternative finance scenarios within a project with a degree of technical knowledge and business acumen.

Provide updates on financial status for assigned projects and create information in response to any client financial reporting needs for assigned projects in the area of project reporting, forecasting, or transactional details for the projects within the portfolio.

Budgeting

For less complex projects, actively monitor the balance sheet positions of projects within the portfolio. Initiate action as needed with project teams to keep balances current, improving DSO and cash flow.

Put steps in place with project teams to ensure pass-thrus are managed within project budgets, including appropriate to trigger change in scope as needed.

Metrics

Maintain, produce and communicate a relevant and impactful set of project financial metrics designed to support evaluation of financial performance consistent with the project and contract types being managed. In partnership with PLs and project teams, prepare and conduct a monthly project review of performance, operational status, and outlook. The review will focus on revenue forecast, labor and margin, billing status, assumptions, special contract items. The review should capture potential improvement opportunities and actions will be taken.

Scope of Work

Play a key role in initiating, building, and reviewing change in scope activity on assigned projects. Work with the project teams on an appropriate budget for the scope of work. Maintain/update simpler project budgets within relevant tools from post-award onwards including analysis and understanding on any subsequent changes in scope

Resourcing

Review labor assumptions on assigned projects, both volume and mix. Build discipline in our project teams in charging time accurately. Understands project resource planning support, monitor resource levels on ongoing projects and identify and communicate project/portfolio margin implications.

Testing

As required, complete all revenue control testing, SOX or audit related.

Competencies

Communication

As Finance Business Partner, communicates, builds rapport and understands/address needs of project leadership.

Engages project leadership to achieve financial and business goals; work closely with them to meet financial goals and supports financially sound decision making

Develops business partner relationships with project leadership in order to facilitate proper project performance information flow

Engages within various levels of internal functions, including clients if necessary.

Identifies and communicates ways to improve project financial analysis process and metrics

Analytics & Problem Solving

Determines data requirements and sources of information, conducts analysis under supervision.

Drive for Results

Consistently delivers timely and quality results. With supervisory support, develops recommendations regarding project profitability

Financial Acumen & Controls

Applies current financial and accounting standards, policies and controls.

Partnering for Business Success

Understands Parexel’s business, different lines of business and industry trends related to your area of expertise

Developing an understanding of partners' priorities

Process & Project Management

Prioritizes, sets expectations and works in an efficient and disciplined manner.

Skills:

Prioritizes, sets expectations and works in an efficient and disciplined manner.

Thrives in a complex, fast-paced, matrix environment

Strong experience with Excel and PowerPoint applications; experience with financial performance systems (e.g., Hyperion)

Ability to manage multiple and varied tasks with enthusiasm and prioritize workload with attention to detail

Interpersonal skills

Strong command of the English language, both written and verbal

Education & Experience

BA in Finance or Accounting, or relevant experience preferred

Relevant and progressive Finance roles with strong analytical and partnering track record.