Financial Planning Specialist

Company Description: Mixta Africa, founded in April 2005, specialises in infrastructure, affordable housing, and real estate projects across the African continent. With a presence in five countries and projects in eight, the company focuses on transforming African cities and building sustainable communities. Mixta Africa was established to address the significant infrastructure and housing deficit in Africa. Its highly committed shareholder base brings extensive experience in infrastructure and developing markets, providing a strong foundation for long-term growth and impact. Team members join a mission-driven organisation shaping the future of urban development in Africa.

Role Description: The Financial Planning Specialist is a full-time, on-site role based in Victoria Island, Lagos.

This role is responsible for developing and maintaining financial plans, budgets, and forecasts to support strategic and operational decision-making. Responsible for building and maintaining detailed day-to-day financial models, performing variance analysis, and ensuring data integrity across financial planning systems. Supports the team in analysing and developing reports for assigned projects.

Qualifications

• Relevant academic background such as a bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or a related field; professional certifications (e.g., CFA, ACCA, CPA) are an advantage.
• Experience: 3-5+ years of experience in financial analysis or planning.
• Candidates should possess strong Financial Planning and Finance skills, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial modelling.
• Candidates should possess solid Analytical Skills to interpret complex data, identify trends, and support data-driven decisions.
• Candidates should possess Accounting and Financial Reporting skills to ensure accurate records and timely management reports.
• Candidates should possess proficiency in spreadsheet and financial analysis tools (e.g., Excel, financial software) and a strong attention to detail.
• Experience in real estate, infrastructure, or project-based environments in emerging markets is beneficial.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Financial Planning and Analysis

• Build and maintain detailed financial models for assigned projects using Excel and other financial planning tools.
• Update existing financial models with actual performance data and revised assumptions.
• Perform sensitivity analysis and scenario modelling to assess project outcomes.
• Review financial models for accuracy and consistency with established standards.
• Document model assumptions, calculations, and methodologies.

Data Collection and Forecasting

• Gather financial and operational data from various departments (Sales, Operations, etc.).
• Validate data accuracy and completeness, investigating and resolving discrepancies.
• Analyze historical data to identify trends and patterns for forecasting.
• Support the development of project budgets and forecasts.
• Maintain databases of historical performance metrics and assumptions.

Financial Reporting

• Prepare monthly/quarterly financial performance reports for assigned projects.
• Create clear and concise presentations of financial analysis for management review.
• Generate standard and ad-hoc reports as requested by team leadership.
• Ensure reports are delivered according to established timelines.
• Design and update reporting templates to improve efficiency.

Variance Analysis

• Compare actual project performance against budgeted figures.
• Identify significant variances and investigate root causes.
• Document explanations for variances from stakeholders.
• Track and report on key performance indicators.
• Suggest potential corrective actions based on variance analysis.

Project Support

• Participate in project review meetings to provide financial insights.
• Support the development of business cases for new initiatives.
• Assist in financial evaluation of project alternatives.
• Maintain project documentation and files.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to gather required information.

Data Management

• Ensure data integrity in financial planning systems.
• Maintain organised records of all financial analyses and reports.
• Document processes and procedures for financial planning activities.
• Support process improvement initiatives.
• Keep track of version control for financial models and reports.

Team Support

• Assist senior team members with complex analyses and special projects.
• Contribute to the development of best practices and standards.
• Help prepare materials for management presentations.
• Support knowledge sharing within the team.
• Flag potential issues or concerns to team leadership promptly.