WL - Senior Financial Analyst

Fairbanks Morse Defense•Thomaston, CT

21h

About The Position

Ward Leonard, a Fairbanks Morse Defense Company, is an industry-leading provider of electric motor, generator, control, and service solutions critical to Naval applications for more than 120 years. Located in Thomaston, Connecticut, Ward Leonard has worked hard to build a reputation as being a trusted name in powering the defense industry. This trust within the market is not possible without the continued hard work, commitment, and dedication of our team who respect the importance of what we do and the impact it has on the servicemen and women. Fairbanks Morse Defense is one of the nation’s leading marine defense contractors, providing reliable power systems, parts, and aftermarket services to the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, Military Sealift Command, and Canadian Coast Guard. Ward Leonard is seeking a Senior Financial Analyst to join our Corporate Finance/Accounting team. In this high-impact position, you will lead key financial activities, driving business insights and supporting strategic decision-making. This role offers the opportunity to work on critical processes such as program and business unit financial forecasting, reconciliation, and program performance analysis while contributing to the success of a company rooted in integrity, innovation, and teamwork. The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented, forward-thinking professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to support business excellence.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
At least 5 years of experience in Accounting/Finance, including experience in financial close processes and meeting tight deadlines
Proficiency in ERP computer software, preferably Visual
Proficiency in Excel, including macros and pivot tables
Strong interpersonal skills with a history of cross-functional collaboration
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
Must be a U.S. Citizen with proof of citizenship (e.g., U.S. Passport, Birth Certificate, or Naturalization Certificate)
Ability to work in compliance with Unclassified Naval Nuclear Propulsion Information (NOFORN) regulations

Nice To Haves

Month end close proficiency
Masters Degree in Finance or related field (MFA, MBA, MAC)
Knowledge of GAAP related to revenue recognition, leases, and other recent accounting pronouncements.
Manufacturing experience.

Responsibilities

Leading month-end closing activities, including the forward operating plan and long-range planning processes.
Supporting financial month-end close, including calculating and reporting FOB accruals to ensure accurate reporting.
Developing and maintaining detailed financial models to support proposals, project execution, and closeout phases.
Analyzing program costs to identify trends, optimize costs, and improve profitability.
Managing cash conversion processes, including progress billing and Estimate at Completion (EAC) analysis.
Preparing and delivering comprehensive financial reports to senior leadership, offering actionable insights.
Driving budgeting, forecasting, and variance analysis to enhance financial performance.
Preparing reconciliations and assisting in financial reporting and analysis to ensure data integrity.
Supporting internal and external audits, including timely responses to audit queries and managing audit sections.
Ensuring compliance with GAAP and other regulatory requirements, and recommending improvements to policies and internal controls.
Actively supporting company initiatives and embodying Fairbanks Morse’s core values of Integrity, Velocity, and Teamwork.
Support other Ward Leonard finance projects and initiatives as assigned