Financial Planning Analyst at Pavago in South Africa

Budgeting & Forecasting Specialist (FP&A, Financial Modeling & Strategic Planning) – Remote

Position Type: Full-Time, Remote Working Hours: U.S. Client Business Hours

About the Role

At Pavago, one of our clients is hiring a Budgeting & Forecasting Specialist to lead budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning initiatives that help drive informed business decisions.

This is a highly analytical role focused on building financial models, managing planning cycles, and delivering forward-looking insights to leadership. You’ll work closely with Finance, Operations, and department heads to develop accurate budgets, maintain rolling forecasts, analyze business performance, and provide strategic recommendations.

If you enjoy turning financial data into actionable insights and influencing business strategy through financial planning, this role is an excellent opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Responsibilities

Budget Development

• Lead the preparation of annual operating and capital budgets.
• Consolidate budget inputs across departments and business units.
• Ensure budgets align with business objectives, growth plans, and resource availability.
• Monitor budget performance and recommend adjustments as business priorities evolve.

Forecasting

• Maintain rolling forecasts for revenue, expenses, and cash flow.
• Update forecasting models monthly or quarterly using actual financial results.
• Develop scenario analyses and sensitivity models to evaluate potential business outcomes.
• Refine forecasting assumptions based on operational performance and market conditions.

Variance Analysis

• Compare actual financial performance against budgets and forecasts.
• Prepare clear, executive-ready commentary explaining key variances.
• Recommend corrective actions and identify financial risks and opportunities.

Financial Modeling

• Build and maintain dynamic financial models using Excel or Google Sheets.
• Develop DCF, ROI, IRR, break-even, and other financial models.
• Utilize advanced formulas, automation, macros, or BI integrations to improve accuracy and efficiency.

Reporting

• Prepare executive reporting packages, dashboards, and financial visualizations.
• Present financial insights that highlight trends, risks, opportunities, and strategic recommendations.
• Support leadership with timely, accurate financial reporting.

Collaboration

• Partner with department leaders to validate assumptions and align forecasts with operational plans.
• Work closely with FP&A and Finance teams to improve planning accuracy and financial visibility.

Process Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve budgeting and forecasting workflows.
• Support implementation and optimization of FP&A platforms such as Anaplan, Adaptive Insights, Hyperion, Workday, or similar solutions.
• Improve reporting automation and data integration processes.

What Makes You a Great Fit

• Highly analytical with exceptional attention to detail.
• Comfortable building complex financial models from scratch.
• Able to explain financial concepts clearly to non-financial stakeholders.
• Proactive in identifying trends, risks, and business opportunities.
• Strong communicator who influences decision-making through data-driven insights.

Required Experience & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in financial planning & analysis (FP&A), budgeting, or forecasting.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets skills, including nested formulas, Pivot Tables, and sensitivity modeling.
• Experience preparing variance analyses and executive financial reporting.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal English communication skills.

Nice to Have

• Experience with FP&A platforms such as Anaplan, Adaptive Insights, Hyperion, or Workday.
• MBA, CPA, CFA, or equivalent professional certification.
• Experience supporting SaaS, real estate, or professional services organizations.
• Familiarity with Power BI, Tableau, Looker, or similar business intelligence tools.

What Success Looks Like

• Forecast accuracy maintained within ±5–10%.
• Budgets completed accurately and within agreed timelines.
• Variance analyses delivered within 2–3 business days after close.
• Financial models remain accurate, reliable, and up to date.
• Forecasting cycle times improve through automation and process enhancements.

Interview Process

• Initial Phone Screen
• Video Interview with Pavago Recruiter
• Practical Assessment (Financial Model & Sensitivity Analysis)
• Client Interview
• Offer & Background Verification

What Happens After You Apply

Right after you apply, you’ll receive an email invitation from Spark Hire to record your Intro Video. This short, self-recorded video is the final step that completes your application.

Instead of repeating yourself across multiple screening calls, you’ll introduce yourself once, and your video will be shared with the hiring team. This allows hiring managers to assess your communication style early, making future interviews more meaningful while reducing unnecessary interview rounds.

Don’t overthink it—you can record your video as many times as you’d like before submitting it. Only your final submission will be reviewed. Please keep an eye on both your inbox and spam folder for your Spark Hire invitation.