Planning Analysis & Reporting Lead

American Electric Power•Columbus, OH

3d•$136,539 - $177,503

About The Position

The Planning Analysis & Reporting Lead oversees and coordinates budgeting, forecasting, variance analysis, financial analysis, the improvement requisition process, and management reporting of operating and financial results for supported customer groups or AEP System consolidated O&M and capital processes, governance, and incentive measures. The role also oversees senior and executive management reporting for these functional areas, including consolidated reporting for AEP earnings calls, press releases, SEC filings, and the AEP Board. The position coordinates development of financial forecasts and reporting of performance and incentive measures, and supports senior management and business operations through special projects and analyses. It is accountable for the preparation and integrity of budgets, forecasts, and the accounting underlying financial results, as well as the effectiveness of related processes. The role manages monthly managerial reporting and accounting activity analysis, ensuring the accuracy and timeliness of managerial and project financial reports and their data. It also coordinates improvement requisitions in accordance with the Corporate Authorization Policy and Improvement Requisition procedures. AEP is hiring two people for this position.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Accounting, Finance, or Engineering with related experience.
At least 7 years of experience, including 3–5 years in budgeting or cost control.

Nice To Haves

MBA, PE, CPA, or CMA.
Prior experience in a functional business unit such as Generation, Transmission, or Distribution; Corporate Finance; Operating Company finance; or an engineering-related field.
Proficiency in UI Budgets, PeopleSoft, Microsoft Office, and Business Objects relational database reporting.
Familiarity with AEP accounting and use of Chartfields.
Prior leadership experience.
Competencies in communication, teamwork, initiative, adaptability/flexibility, client focus, creativity, planning/organizing, and understanding the business and competition.

Responsibilities

Coordinate preparation of budgets, forecasts, and variance explanations for each supported customer, along with related financial, managerial, and project reports and analyses.
Perform financial and/or accounting analysis and procedures as needed.
Develop financial and budgeting procedures and work with Accounting to develop accounting procedures when needed.
Provide direction and support for improvements to financial and accounting processes and tools, including oversight of internal or contractor IT resources implementing enhancements.
Coordinate and establish policies, procedures, and systems with corporate financial groups for forecasting, budgeting, accounting, and other financial services.
Oversee transaction detail analysis to ensure proper accounting classifications, recommend reclassifications, and support financial-report integrity and Sarbanes-Oxley compliance.
Train department personnel in financial and accounting processes and tools, and use cross-training to ensure adequate activity backup.
Help personnel use system software and provide resources as necessary.
Ensure Business Operations Planning and Analysis processes and related processes involving other AEP departments are streamlined and optimized; oversee continuous improvement.
Follow up on irregularities and abnormal conditions to ensure they are properly resolved.
Perform special studies, analyses, investigations, and other assignments as required.
Assist with regulatory proceedings involving financial matters, including data requests and special studies for Commissions.
Oversee senior and executive management reporting for supported functional areas and consolidated reporting for AEP earnings calls, press releases, SEC filings, and the AEP Board.
Coordinate improvement requisitions in accordance with the Corporate Authorization Policy and Improvement Requisition procedures.
Maintain the accuracy and timeliness of managerial and project financial reports and their underlying data.