Analyst, IT Financial Planning & Analysis

Panera Bread•Saint Louis, LA

7d•$64,638 - $77,565•Onsite

About The Position

Panera is seeking a detail-oriented, analytical individual to analyze financial data related to IT projects and operations, assist with budgeting and forecasting, and provide insights that support financial decision-making within the IT department. The role is based at the Saint Louis, Missouri Support Center and is an individual-contributor position requiring collaboration with IT, finance, accounting, accounts receivable, project managers, and other stakeholders. Local travel is required. The analyst reviews IT expenditures, budgets, and forecasts; monitors financial performance; supports accurate month-end coding and close; and serves as a subject matter expert for Google Cloud Platform (GCP) expenses and forecasting. The role also manages the monthly IT franchise billing process, which covers approximately $15 million annually, and prepares financial reports, dashboards, and ad hoc analyses. Additional work includes supporting IT budgets and forecasts, evaluating project costs and investments, optimizing vendor expenditures, improving processes, documenting day-to-day procedures in Confluence, and partnering with the Zero Based Budgeting team to drive savings.

Requirements

Proven experience in financial analysis, budgeting, and reporting, preferably in an IT or technology environment.
Strong proficiency in financial modeling and analysis tools, such as Excel and financial software.
Familiarity with IT financial management practices and metrics.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills and keen attention to detail.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present financial information to diverse audiences.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree preferred, but not required.

Responsibilities

Analyze IT expenditures, budgets, and forecasts to ensure alignment with organizational goals.
Monitor and report on IT financial performance, identifying concerns and cost-saving opportunities.
Ensure appropriate coding during the month-end close process.
Track and explain Google Cloud Platform (GCP) project actual and forecast expenses with IT leadership, and update reporting and forecasts as needed.
Execute the monthly IT billing process, ensuring accurate, timely billing of approximately $15 million annually and submission for accounting review.
Train and work with a billing backup for contingency purposes.
Coordinate with accounting and accounts receivable, and serve as the first contact for questions about IT sales items or billing issues.
Maintain and update the glossary of IT franchise fees.
Assist in developing annual IT budgets and periodic forecasts.
Collaborate with IT project managers to track project budgets and expenditures.
Work with the broader FP&A team to explain variances and manage forward-looking risks and opportunities to plan or forecast.
Prepare and present financial reports and dashboards for IT leadership and stakeholders.
Provide ad hoc financial analysis to support business initiatives.
Perform Tempo administration and reporting as needed.
Conduct cost-benefit analyses of IT projects and investments.
Assist in managing IT vendor contracts and expenditures to optimize costs.
Gather financial data with IT teams, the finance department, and other stakeholders to support accurate reporting.
Participate in cross-functional teams supporting strategic initiatives and projects.
Identify and implement process improvements related to IT financial management and reporting.
Stay current on industry trends and best practices in IT finance.
Continuously document day-to-day IT Financial Planning & Analysis work in Confluence for contingency purposes.
Partner with the Zero Based Budgeting team to drive savings.