Finance Data & Analytics Lead

Synopsis

The Finance Data & Analytics Lead role is critical to financial data strategy and execution. In this role, you will develop and execute a comprehensive data and analytics strategy, lead data integration and governance efforts, foster a culture of innovation by integrating financial systems with analytics solutions to modernize the finance function, and promote data literacy within finance. 
You will require a blend of leadership acumen and technical expertise with a deep understanding of financial systems, data architecture and advanced analytics to build innovative solutions for Finance data and reporting strategy. This position offers a unique opportunity to drive innovation, enhance financial performance, and support the enterprise’s long-term strategic goals.

Accountabilities

Strategic Digital Transformation

• Owns the vision, roadmap and achievement of ROI on Finance data and technology initiatives
• Collaborate with senior leadership and stakeholders to identify opportunities for digital innovation and prioritize key financial analytics initiatives
• Drive the deployment and development of AI in finance to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency.
• Promote effective data management and utilization to drive organizational success through seamless data integration.

Data governance and quality 

• Establish and enforce data governance policies and procedures within finance to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards.
• Utilize metrics and analytics to monitor data quality, identify discrepancies and implement corrective actions promptly to maintain high standards of data reliability.
• Coordinate with IT and finance teams to integrate financial systems with cloud-based analytics, ensuring data integrity and actionable insights.
• Develop and enforce protocols for ongoing improvement and maintenance of systems and cloud infrastructure to address performance and emerging issues.

Change Management 

• Lead change management initiatives to foster a culture of adaptability and continuous improvement within the finance department.
• Empower team members to independently access and analyze data by promoting the use of self-service analytics tools across the finance function to enhance decision-making and operational efficiency.
• Champion data literacy across finance and the enterprise. Assist in creating development plans that improve finance’s Data & Analytics knowledge, particularly around AI.

Measure and monitor performance 

• Establish and continuously monitor KPIs to assess the effectiveness of financial strategies and initiatives.
• Deliver data-driven insights and strategic recommendations to senior management.
• Focus on driving financial performance and enhancing operational efficiency through informed decision-making.

Education & Experience

Experience

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in finance, data analytics or a related field 
• Proven track record in the airline or transportation industry is an asset

Education & Technical Expertise

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Relevant certifications in data analytics, data science, or financial systems are highly desirable
• Advanced knowledge of financial systems, data architecture and cloud-based analytics solutions
• Proficiency in ERP platforms (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and knowledge of data warehousing solutions
• Expertise in using advanced analytics and AI to uncover insights from complex financial data 
• Solid proficiency with data and analytical visualization software

Skills and Competencies

• Strong understanding of digital technologies, data governance, policies, procedures and their applications in specialized environment.
• Proven leadership skills to build and lead a high-performing team of data scientists, analysts and finance professionals
• Strong leadership, communication and project management skills.