Financial Analyst

Overview

The Chief Financial Officer Group (CFOG) is responsible for the Firm's global financial and controllership functions. Because all financial data for the Firm from all over the world flows into our team, we are uniquely positioned to spot trends and advise business leaders. Our first mission is to collect and report information with flawless accuracy. Our next commitment is to provide insightful analysis and serve as business advisors to our front-line managers. In addition, our team members embody a deep commitment to providing brilliant service to our internal clients. We treat our business leaders and front-line professionals like valued clients who deserve first-rate, highly responsive service. Our final commitment is to each other. The CFO division has a unique culture defined by collaboration, mutual support, and a "team first" attitude, combined with a strong commitment to professional excellence. We like go-getters who embody our values about first-rate work and continuous improvement.

Financial Analyst

The Financial Analyst will play a key role in developing the global annual budget and driving periodic forecasting cycles, collaborating closely with the FP&A team and the broader finance organization. They will primarily support business function leaders in budget development and act as a business advisor during forecasting efforts. Understanding key variances between actual results and the detailed budget and forecast, as well as effectively communicating these insights to business unit leaders, will be essential.

As a results-oriented individual, the successful candidate will thrive under pressure, meeting deadlines in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. They should be intellectually curious and eager to learn about Spencer Stuart, the firm's business model, and the CFOG. Additionally, the candidate will help the FP&A team identify issues and create effective solutions while being adept at learning new technologies quickly.

This position demands exceptional attention to detail and a strong customer service orientation. Candidates must possess a sense of urgency, prioritize tasks effectively, and maintain a collaborative spirit. Strong communication skills are essential for working well with colleagues, stakeholders, and clients across departments.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate a proactive mindset, identifying opportunities and addressing challenges to drive financial solutions. They should have the ability to communicate complex financial concepts clearly to diverse audiences and foster positive relationships across teams.

Our current work environment is hybrid, requiring one day in the office (currently Wednesday for Finance), with in-person attendance at critical meetings as necessary.

Location:  353 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the main point of contact for Business Function teams within the Finance department, providing insights and analysis to support sound decision-making.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with cross-functional teams, ensuring financial insights are integrated into business strategies and operations.

• Prepare and present accurate and timely financial reports and analyses to senior management, highlighting key trends and variances to inform business decisions.

• Ensure the integrity and quality of financial data through meticulous attention to detail, conducting thorough reviews, and validation of reports and process outputs.

• Deliver exceptional service to internal stakeholders by anticipating needs, addressing inquiries, and providing solutions in a responsive manner.

• Manage multiple priorities effectively, ensuring that deliverables are completed within established timelines while adhering to high quality standards.

• Liaise closely with the Controllership team to align financial reporting processes, ensure compliance, and contribute to the overall financial governance framework.

• Leverage tools such as Workday, Adaptive Planning, and Office Connect to enhance financial analyses, streamline reporting processes, and improve data integrity.

• Provide guidance and support to Business Function teams on financial best practices, tools, and systems to foster a culture of financial literacy across the organization.

• Identify opportunities for process enhancements within the FP&A function, driving efficiency and effectiveness in reporting and analysis activities.

Key Relationships

Reports to: Manager FP&A, Planning & Forecasting

Other key relationships: Full Chief Financial Officer Group, including FP&A and Controllership Teams Business Function Leadership

Ideal Experience

Education:

• An undergraduate degree in Accounting or Finance with strong academic record.

Proficient with Software and Databases.

• Advanced Excel skills are a must.

• Intermediate skills with PowerPoint.

• Prior experience using accounting and planning systems, strong preference for Workday and Adaptive Planning.

Work Experience:

• One to three years as an FP&A Analyst is required.

• Previous experience with budgeting and forecasting is required.

• Experience in a global, professional services or consulting firm is a plus.

The base compensation range for this position is $80,000-$85,000 per year. The actual base compensation offered within this range will be dependent on the individual’s skills, experiences, and qualifications. This position will be eligible to participate in our annual discretionary bonus program. 

Spencer Stuart also offers a competitive benefits package, which includes: 

• Retirement savings plan with discretionary profit sharing contribution and employer match;

• PTO (minimum 15 days per year, increases with tenure), paid sick time (10 days per year), company holidays (12 days per year), and paid leaves of absence when applicable;

• Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, and healthcare flexible spending account;

• Life Insurance, and short-term and long-term disability insurance;

• Wellness benefits, including an employee assistance program, virtual mental health program, and mindfulness program; and

• Voluntary benefit options, including supplemental life insurance, identity theft protection, and whole life insurance with long-term care and critical illness coverage.

Spencer Stuart is a proud equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We are committed to non-discrimination without regard to actual or perceived race, ethnicity, creed, color, religion, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions), national origin, immigration status, ancestry, age, marital status, protected veteran status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any basis prohibited under applicable federal, state or local law.