Head of Planning, Finance Planning & Controlling

Job Summary:

The Head of Planning will oversee the annual planning and budgeting and forecasting activities. This role is responsible for managing the Company’s financial plan and budget and ensure that all business functions operate within budget and allocation of financial resources are aligned with strategic priorities and organizational goals. The role is also responsible for providing leadership in financial strategy, analysis, and reporting to drive long-term financial stability and sustainable growth.

Key Responsibilities:

Financial Planning

• Lead the preparation of annual and monthly planning dialogue process including coordination of information from relevant parties and reviewing the reasonableness of the underlying assumptions used for projections.
• Preparation of presentation materials to Senior Management, Board Committees and Regional Office.
• Preparation of annual management expenses and monthly budget by cost centers.
• Support CFO in identifying financial trends, business drivers, potential risks and opportunities for improvement.

Budgeting and Forecasting

• Oversee the preparation and monitoring of budgets ensuring alignment with Company goals and strategic priorities.
• Collaborate with departmental heads to ensure accurate forecasting and timely adjustments to the financial plan as necessary.
• Collaborate with departmental heads to define budget assumptions, set targets and review financial needs / resources.
• Provide robust monitoring and tracking of project expenses including regional investments. Provide proactive solutions to any identified challenges.

Expense Studies

• Perform regular expense analysis and work with actuarial team on updating expense methodology where applicable. Maintain updated activities-based costing studies.

Financial Analysis & Reporting

• Oversee the preparation of detailed financial reports, analyzing performance against budgets, historical data and forecast projections.
• Identify variance and work closely with business functions to explain and address discrepancies. Provide actionable insights and recommendations based on financial results.
• Develop key financial metrics and reports to support decision making by Senior Management

Process Improvement / Finance Transformation

• Continuously evaluate and improve financial planning, budgeting and forecasting processes, identifying opportunities for automation and efficiency gains. Implement best practices in planning and budgeting, leverage on technology and financial tools to improve accuracy and reporting.
• Lead initiatives as rolled out by the Group including the harmonization of chart of accounts, implementation of new accounting systems.

Key Requirements:

• Must possess at least Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting or related field. Professional qualification (e.g. ICAEW, CPA, MIA, CFA) is highly preferred.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in financial planning, budgeting and analysis with at least 5 years in leadership or managerial role.
• Proven experience in leading budgeting and forecasting processes preferably in an insurance organization.
• Strong understanding of financial modeling, expense management and performance analysis.
• Advanced proficiency is financial software and Microsoft Excel.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Proficient in translating complex business information into clear and understandable terms.
• Capable of collaborating effectively with team members and engaging with personnel across all organizational levels.
• Highly organized, self-driven, detail-oriented, and able to operate independently in a fast-paced environment.