Financial Analyst Job Description

Illustration of a man sitting at a desk with a computer

To find the ideal financial analyst, the job description should include some details about the values and culture of your organization. The language should be simple, and the message concise. Let candidates know how their work will influence your immediate as well as long-term success.

Bulleted lists of objectives, responsibilities, and qualifications should paint an accurate picture of the expectations for the financial analyst role. Take time to review each item thoroughly, removing those that aren't crucial for a job description, and keep the lists to a maximum of six bullets each.

Sample financial analyst job description

Our fiscal health has allowed us to grow by leaps and bounds, yet we’re proud to be offering the same personalized, attentive service. To maintain our strong standing, we’re looking for a highly skilled financial analyst to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience analyzing financial data and developing profit-focused action plans, including trend forecasting and variance monitoring. Additionally, this person should be proficient in data visualization and modeling. The right financial analyst will have a desire to contribute from Day 1, helping us provide service that’s second to none.

Objectives of this role

Monitor financial status by comparing datasets with projections
Improve fiscal health with thorough analyses of financial data: develop deep, actionable insights to drive business performance by monitoring variances and identifying trends
Develop forecast models based on comparative performance metrics and implement improvements as the business grows
Develop business cases to support pricing decisions and create innovative strategies for cost reduction
Establish and guide restructured cost analysis using fresh policies and procedures

Responsibilities

Work directly with VP of finance on various planning exercises, such as forecasting, budgets, profitability analysis, and reporting
Assist in the monthly close process by analyzing trends and variances related to revenue, and compare and correct data to reconcile transactions
Develop and maintain confidential, protected databases to monitor business performance, and provide managers with insights into risks and opportunities
Coordinate requirements for efficient, automated accounting to increase productivity and ensure verified backups
Uphold standards through consolidation of quarterly reporting packages and thorough internal analysis of financial data
Strive to advance personal skill set through networking, workshops, and other educational opportunities

Required skills and qualifications

Experience working as a financial analyst
Proficiency with financial software and tools
Knowledge of statistical analysis processes and packages
Outstanding communication, reporting, and presentation skills

Preferred skills and qualifications

Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in finance or related field
Experience in financial forecasting and trend analytics
Experience with revenue recognition software as well as with NetSuite and Salesforce
Strong familiarity with accounting, tax, and e-commerce legislation
Experience in a corporate finance setting
Measurable ability in financial planning and strategy