Lead Finance Planning & Reporting Analyst

We are seeking a Lead Finance Planning & Reporting Analyst to join our Food Retail Business. You will work closely with the Food Support Centre and the Food FPAR (Financial Planning, Analysis & Reporting) team.

Your main responsibilities will include managing cost forecasts, understanding and explaining variances, and partnering with functional teams to support decision-making. You will provide clear financial analysis and help ensure plans align with business priorities.

Responsibilities:

• Financial Planning & Analysis for our Food Support Centre, one of our biggest cost lines
• Provide key insights and commentary to various internal partners
• Own monthly performance reporting and period end packs for Food Support Centre, providing overview to risks and opportunities
• Produce insightful and clear planning communication packs for decision making
• Support the Finance Business Partners within Food Retail to monitor spend against budget
• Provide ad hoc financial analysis support for business initiatives
• Build strong relationships with internal senior leadership across the business

Requirements:

• An accountancy qualification (e.g. ACA, CIMA or CIMA) or are currently working towards one
• Experience making improvements to reporting processes and delivering actionable insights, with an understanding and experience within financial modelling
• The ability to understand core accounting principles and think commercially
• Excellent communication skills, with the confidence to present to financial and non-financial partners, challenging and influencing where necessary
• The ability to prioritise the right tasks in a complex, changing environment

Benefits:

• An annual bonus (based on personal and business performance)
• 28 days holiday (rising to 32 with service) plus bank holidays
• A pension with up to 10% employer contributions
• Access to a subsidised onsite gym (at our Manchester HQ)
• 30% discount on Co-op products and 10% off other brands
• Stream – early access to a percentage of your pay as you earn it
• Virtual healthcare including GP appointments, mental health support, nutrition and fitness advice
• 24/7 colleague support service
• Training and support for your development and career progression
• Cycle-to-work scheme