Budget & Financial Analyst Lead

UL Standards & Engagement•Evanston, IL

2d•$98,562 - $135,523•Hybrid

About The Position

The Budget & Financial Analyst Lead leads enterprise financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting to support organizational strategy. The role partners with senior leadership and department heads to translate priorities into actionable financial plans, provide data-driven insights into financial performance, and deliver board-ready analysis of budget-to-actual results. It supports resource allocation and continuous improvement of financial planning processes. This is a hybrid position based in the Evanston, Illinois office, with onsite work on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field.
Minimum 8 years of directly related experience.
Strong expertise in financial principles, accounting, budgeting, and variance analysis within a complex organizational environment.
Advanced ability to analyze complex financial data, synthesize insights, and translate findings into actionable recommendations.
Ability to communicate financial information clearly and effectively to financial and non-financial stakeholders.
High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy, completeness, and integrity in financial planning and reporting.
Demonstrated problem-solving skills, including identifying issues, evaluating alternatives, and implementing effective solutions.
Strong collaboration and stakeholder partnership skills, including cross-functional input gathering and alignment.
Ability to manage competing priorities and adapt to changing timelines in a dynamic environment.
Proficiency with financial systems and tools, including advanced Excel and data analysis capabilities.
Advanced knowledge of budgeting, forecasting, reporting, and planning methodologies.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including developing clear presentations for executive audiences.
Experience supporting or leading large-scale business initiatives, data-driven projects, and process improvements.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Adaptive and Workday is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Lead development and management of annual budgets and multi-year financial plans aligned with organizational strategy.
Partner with senior leaders and department heads on financial planning, translating strategic priorities into actionable plans while supporting accuracy, accountability, and strategic alignment.
Oversee monthly budget-to-actual variance analysis, identify key drivers, and recommend actions to optimize costs and operational efficiency.
Prepare budget-to-actual analyses and supporting narratives for monthly close meetings and quarterly board reports, explaining drivers, trends, and implications relative to the approved budget.
Develop and present financial reports, forecasts, and analyses to senior leadership and department stakeholders.
Lead and monitor quarterly forecasting, producing forward-looking projections and insights for decision-making.
Guide and oversee preparation of departmental budgets and financial presentations for executive leadership and board-level discussions.
Improve budgeting, forecasting, and reporting processes, including tools, methodologies, and data quality.
Mentor and develop analysts through coaching and quality review.
Partner with functional leaders on resource allocation, planning, and cost management.
Support large-scale financial initiatives, system implementations, and cross-functional projects.
Perform other duties as directed.

Benefits

Bonus compensation based on position level.
Comprehensive medical insurance.
Dental insurance.
Vision insurance.
Life insurance.
401(k) matching of up to 5% of eligible pay.
An additional 4% retirement contribution after the first year of continuous employment.
Potential to discuss flexible working arrangements with a manager, depending on role.
Paid vacation, holidays, sick days, and volunteer days.
Targeted development, reward, and recognition programs.