Financial Planning Analyst

Finance Operations Analyst - London, UK

Salary: £50,000 - £55,000 per annum

About the Role:

Our client, a dynamic investment company in London, is seeking a Finance Operations Analyst to join their expanding team. This part-qualified position offers full study support and provides exposure to various aspects of finance and operations, laying a solid foundation for a career in investment and international development.

This role is highly commercial, acting as a bridge between finance and operations. You will be hands-on with strategic tasks, adding value by driving process improvements and working proactively within a fast-paced, evolving environment. Candidates with startup or impact investing backgrounds are highly desirable.

Key Responsibilities:

• Finance Operations:

  • Manage end-to-end processing of Accounts Payable (AP), Accounts Receivable (AR), expense claims, and cash management.
  • Oversee grant and risk capital deployment processes, ensuring compliance with internal and external regulations.
  • Conduct month-end closing activities, including journal postings, balance sheet reconciliations, and preparation of financial statements.
  • Maintain accurate balance sheet and profit & loss records, supporting management and statutory reporting.
  • Collaborate to optimize finance operations processes and systems, focusing on efficiency and automation.
  • Support donor reporting within FP&A (must have hands-on experience, not just exposure).
  • Involvement in cash flow forecasting, working proactively with the deals team.

• Regulatory & Business Partnering:

  • Prepare audit documentation and support reviews across multiple entities (UK, US, Kenya, Singapore).
  • Assist in policy reviews and development of annual financial statements.
  • Provide data analysis for donor reporting and support fundraising initiatives.
  • Address regulatory queries with external parties (e.g., Companies House, HMRC).
  • Contribute to board reporting, forecasting, and budgeting through data analysis and financial modeling.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

The ideal candidate is a part-qualified accountant (CIMA preferred) or finalist who is driven, adaptable, and eager to contribute to a fast-paced, dynamic environment. A background in impact investing, financial services, or startups is highly desirable.

Key Skills:

• Advanced Excel proficiency, including financial modeling from scratch (beyond standard financial statements).
• Experience with multiple accounting systems and a strong understanding of accounting principles, audit processes, and controls.
• Strong analytical abilities and understanding of finance and operations processes.
• Experience with payroll processes and tax submissions (VAT, CT).
• Demonstrated experience in process improvement, systems implementation, and operational data management.
• Ability to work independently, proactively seeking information and driving improvements without supervision.
• Comfortable working in fast-changing, unstructured environments, managing multiple deadlines.

Attributes:

• Proactive, self-starter with strong problem-solving skills.
• Eager to learn, grow, and take on new challenges.
• Strong interest in impact investing or the financial industry.
• Comfortable working in environments with a certain level of uncertainty.

Role Breakdown:

• Core Finance (Invoices, Payments, Cash Management): 35%
• Business Partnering & Analysis: 45%
• Operations: 20%

Benefits:

• Flexible working arrangements (home/office).
• Private health insurance and cash plan.
• Life assurance.
• Comprehensive study package.
• Competitive pension scheme.
• Gym and phone allowance.

Additional Information:

• This role is based in central London, with the team attending the office approximately two days a week.
• Proof of the right to work in the UK is required.

If you are a proactive finance professional seeking a role that offers both challenge and opportunity in a supportive environment, we encourage you to apply.