The Head of Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) and Systems will, under the direction of the Finance Director provide insightful financial guidance, support strategic decision, and drive growth. They will lead the FP&A team and Systems processes in driving financial planning, forecasting, budgeting, and strategic analysis and delivering more efficiency through reporting automations across the organization.

This role requires a strategic thinker with strong leadership and communication skills and the ability to understand the commercial value drivers of the organization and influence decision-making at all levels of the company. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of financial principles, accounting, and financial modelling, proficiency in analyzing large datasets, identifying trends, and making data-driven decisions, Expertise in creating accurate forecasts and budgets, and adjusting them based on changing business conditions, Familiarity with financial software, ERP systems, and advanced Excel skills including knowledge of data visualization tools like Power BI or Tableau, and a proven track record of managing complex financial processes.

This role involves managing reporting automations, process improvements, ensuring data integrity, and providing user support and training. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in financial systems, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to work collaboratively across departments.

Strategic Planning:

• Development and execution of the annual budgeting process and long-term strategic planning.
• Collaborate with senior management to establish financial goals and objectives aligned with the company’s strategic plan.
• Provide financial insights and recommendations to support strategic decision-making

Financial Analysis:

• Oversee the preparation of financial reports, forecasts, and variance analyses.
• Conduct in-depth analyses of financial performance and key business drivers.
• Develop financial models to evaluate new business opportunities and investments

Business Partnering:

• Work closely with business units to provide financial guidance and support.
• Serve as a key liaison between finance and other departments to ensure alignment on financial goals and initiatives.
• Present financial results and strategic insights to senior leadership and the board of directors.

Performance Management:

• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive business performance.
• Identify areas for cost optimization and efficiency improvements.
• Lead initiatives to improve financial processes and systems.

Team Leadership:

• Manage the FP&A Manager and Systems Analyst.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and professional development within the team.
• Manage workload and priorities to ensure the timely delivery of accurate financial information.

Systems & Automations Management:

• Oversee the enhancement of the financial systems.
• Ensure that financial systems are aligned with organizational goals and processes.
• Design and develop automated reporting solutions.
• Create and maintain data pipelines to ensure accurate and timely data delivery.

Process Improvement

• Identify opportunities for process improvements and automation within financial systems.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to develop and implement system enhancements.
• Analyze system performance and make recommendations for optimization.

Data Management:

• Ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial data across all systems.
• Develop and maintain documentation for system processes and procedures.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to gather reporting requirements and translate them into technical specifications.
• Monitor data flows between systems to ensure consistency and accuracy.
• Ensure the accuracy and consistency of data across reports and dashboards.

Process Improvement:

• Identify opportunities to streamline and automate existing reporting processes.
• Implement best practices for data management and reporting automation.
• Continuously evaluate new tools and technologies to enhance reporting capabilities.

Project Management:

• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure project objectives are met.
• Track project progress, manage timelines, and report on project status to stakeholders.
• Work closely with IT and data teams to ensure data integration and compatibility.

We’re looking for a team player, who is motivated by delivering great work and the Hitachi vision. The role will be a mixture of remote-hybrid work with days in the Hitachi Office. The office location is at Sefton Park, Slough, soon moving to Hitachi Europe Ltd, Botanica Ditton Park, Riding Court Road, Datchet, SL3 9LL.

The ideal candidate will possess the following skills and background:

Technical and Analytical Skills:

• Financial Acumen: Deep understanding of financial principles, accounting, and financial modelling.
• Data Analysis: Proficiency in analysing large datasets, identifying trends, and making data-driven decisions.
• Forecasting and Budgeting: Expertise in creating accurate forecasts and budgets and adjusting them based on changing business conditions.
• Technology Proficiency: Familiarity with financial software, ERP systems, and advanced Excel skills. Knowledge of data visualization tools like Power BI or Tableau is also beneficial.

Strategic Insight:

• Business Acumen: In-depth understanding of the business, industry, and market dynamics.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to see the big picture, connect financial insights to broader business strategies, and influence long-term decision-making.
• Risk Management: Skill in identifying financial risks and developing strategies to mitigate them.

Leadership and Communication:

• Effective Communication: Ability to translate complex financial data into clear, actionable insights for non-financial stakeholders.
• Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams, including operations, marketing, and executive leadership.
• Influence and Negotiation: Capability to persuade and influence senior management and stakeholders to adopt financial recommendations and strategies.

Personal Attributes:

• Problem-Solving: Innovative and resourceful in finding solutions to financial challenges.
• Attention to Detail: Precision in financial reporting and analysis to ensure accuracy.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to changing business environments and priorities.
• Integrity and Ethics: Commitment to ethical standards and integrity in financial reporting and decision-making.

Leadership Qualities:

• Visionary Leadership: Ability to inspire and lead the FP&A team towards achieving the company’s financial goals.
• Mentorship: Willingness to mentor and develop team members, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and learning.
• Results-Driven: Focused on delivering results and driving performance through effective financial management and strategic planning.