Deputy Manager Financial Planning & Analysis - Dammam, Saudi Arabia

Position Overview

Our client, a prominent multinational food manufacturing company in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, is seeking a Deputy Manager for Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A). This role serves as the second-in-command within the FP&A function, supporting financial planning, business performance management, strategic decision-making, and collaboration across departments. The role is designed for progressive leadership advancement and acts as a key support to the FP&A Director, ensuring continuous financial oversight and execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist and co-lead annual budgeting, monthly forecasting, and long-term planning for various business units.
• Oversee monthly management reporting and performance reviews, delivering accurate and timely analysis of financial results compared to budgets and forecasts.
• Lead analysis of variances, providing clear explanations, identifying risks and opportunities, and recommending actionable steps.
• Develop and update financial models and scenario tools to enhance forecasting precision and decision support.
• Standardize and continuously improve FP&A reporting processes, dashboards, and key performance indicator frameworks.
• Conduct in-depth profitability analysis across products, sales channels, and customer segments.
• Manage pricing strategy reviews and evaluate the financial effects of promotions, discounts, new product introductions, and commercial initiatives.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to maximize margins and overall profitability.
• Monitor implementation and financial impact of cost-saving and productivity enhancement programs.
• Assess the financial viability of strategic initiatives, investments, and operational modifications.
• Provide financial insights related to organizational complexity, business expansions, and integration projects.
• Lead efforts for ERP system enhancements, automation of reporting, and data governance improvements.
• Establish best financial planning practices, performance management, and reporting standards.
• Enhance internal controls and improve data integrity in planning and reporting processes.
• Lead and mentor FP&A analysts and junior team members.
• Act as a deputy to the FP&A Director when necessary, supporting overall function leadership.
• Communicate financial analyses and recommendations to senior leaders and cross-functional stakeholders.
• Build effective relationships across departments to reinforce financial discipline and partnership.

Qualifications & Preferred Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related discipline is required.
• Professional certifications such as CMA, CFA, or an MBA are advantageous.
• 8 to 12 years of experience in FP&A, management control, commercial finance, or business finance roles.
• Industry experience in FMCG, consumer goods, or manufacturing is highly preferred.
• Advanced skills in financial modeling, budgeting, and profitability analysis.
• Proven ability to manage complexity, handle multiple priorities, and lead cross-functional initiatives.
• Strong leadership capabilities and experience managing stakeholder relationships.
• Familiarity with ERP systems, business intelligence tools, and reporting automation techniques.