Sr. Financial Analyst

Advance Auto Business Support - Raleigh, NC

Full-time - Mid Level

Raleigh, NC

10,001+ employees

About the position

The Sr. Financial Analyst at Advance Auto Parts plays a crucial role in providing decision support through the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data. This position is integral to forecasting business trends that align with the company's strategic and operational plans, which include initiatives such as Customer Acceleration/Transformation, Availability Excellence, and Superior Experience. The analyst will drive profitable growth by conducting rigorous analysis and providing insightful recommendations based on data-driven insights. Key responsibilities include establishing guidelines for standard cost approaches used in business decisions and monitoring cost reduction programs. The analyst will perform root cause driver analysis to support decision-making, effectively communicating results to translate them into actionable business insights. This role also involves providing direction to functional counterparts in operating units and advising senior management on cost determination issues, inventory valuation, overhead distribution, joint costs treatment, and product pricing. The Sr. Financial Analyst will conduct special studies and analyses, such as determining the cost impact of proposed facilities or processes, and will define assumptions for quantifying investments, acquisitions, or divestitures. Participation in the development of long-range financial forecasts and budgets is essential, considering various economic scenarios. The analyst will provide fact-based financial analysis, economic modeling, and ad-hoc analysis to support business cases for proposed investments, presenting findings in both verbal and written formats to senior management and other stakeholders. Additionally, the analyst will partner with internal customers to implement performance management rhythms and provide external financial information on competitors and industry trends. Staying abreast of developments in industrial technology, business, finance, and economic theory is also a key aspect of this role, ensuring that the analyst remains knowledgeable and effective in their contributions to the organization.

Responsibilities

• Provide guidelines for standard cost approaches used in business decisions and establish cost reduction programs.
• Conduct root cause driver analysis to support decision-making and communicate results effectively.
• Provide direction to functional counterparts and senior management on cost determination issues.
• Conduct special studies and analyses related to cost impact of proposed facilities or processes.
• Define assumptions for quantification and analysis of investments, acquisitions, or divestitures.
• Participate in the development of long-range financial forecasts and budgets considering alternative scenarios.
• Provide fact-based financial analysis, economic modeling, and ad-hoc analysis to support business cases for investments.
• Present verbal and written reports on economic trends and industry analysis.
• Partner with internal customers to implement performance management rhythms.
• Provide external financial information on competitors and the industry.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Economics, Finance, or Business is required; MBA preferred.
• 3-5 years of financial and business analysis experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong analytical and organizational skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, AS/400, and PeopleSoft.
• Ability to apply mathematical concepts to practical situations, including probability and statistical inference.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret business periodicals or technical procedures.
• Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.
• Ability to present information and respond to questions from senior management and clients.
• Experience working in a retail environment preferred.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience with financial modeling and forecasting techniques.
• Familiarity with inventory management and cost accounting principles.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance bonuses.
• Health insurance coverage.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Employee discounts on products and services.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.