Director of Finance Planning & Strategy

Job Description

This key leadership role is accountable for cash flow management, financial analysis, and driving the annual planning, forecasting, and reporting processes. The successful candidate will lead a team of finance analysts delivering accurate and timely financial insights to support data-driven decision making across the business.

Job Responsibilities

Financial Planning and Forecasting:

• Lead, coordinate, and prepare the annual plan in alignment with overall financial objectives, including setting client-specific targets and establishing goals with regional and department Vice Presidents 
• Develop and refine financial forecasting models to predict future financial performance
• Create short and long-term financial plans in collaboration with senior management

Financial Reporting:

• Oversee the preparation and presentation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports
• Ensure compliance with accounting standards and regulatory requirements
• Provide clear and actionable insights from financial reports to support executive decision-making Serve as the key liaison for financial reporting-related inquiries from leadership, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies
• Monitor key financial metrics and performance indicators, identifying trends and areas for improvement

Cash Flow Management:

• Manage cash flow to ensure the availability of funds for operational needs and strategic initiatives
• Optimize utilization of working capital 
• Monitor and forecast cash flow trends, providing proactive recommendations to mitigate risks and seize opportunities
• Collaborate with key stakeholders to align cash flow planning with broader business objectives and growth plans

Financial Analysis:

• Conduct comprehensive financial analysis to support strategic decision-making 
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and revenue enhancement, and improved efficiency
• Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) and provide actionable insights to senior management 
• Perform benchmarking analyses to evaluate business performance relative to market practice

Leadership:

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of financial analysts, fostering their growth and professional development
• Cultivate a collaborative and inclusive team culture that aligns with the business’s purpose of Nurturing Lives, emphasizing support, respect, and shared goals
• Encourage continuous learning and improvement by providing regular feedback, coaching, and opportunities for skill enhancement
• Act as a role model for ethical behavior and purpose-driven leadership

Strategic Support:

• Provide actionable financial insights and recommendations to support strategic initiatives, business growth, and long-term success
• Lead the preparation for operating review and strategic plan materials
• Actively participate in strategic planning processes, contributing a financial perspective that aligns with organizational priorities
• Analyze market trends, competitive dynamics, and internal performance to identify opportunities for innovation and strategic investment

Qualifications

Education: 
•    Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or a related field required
•    MBA or CPA preferred

Experience: 
•    A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in finance, with at least 5 years in a leadership role managing and developing a high-performing team
•    Industry experience in the hospitality sector is strongly preferred, with a demonstrated ability to adapt financial strategies to a client- and service-focused business model

Skills:
•    Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills with a track record of driving data-informed outcomes
•    Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to convey complex financial information to a diverse group of stakeholders
•    Proven proficiency in financial software and tools with the ability to adapt to new technology as needed
•    Demonstrated ability to influence and shape decisions across all levels of the business without formal authority
•    Demonstrated ability to work independently, showing initiative and sound judgment when navigating ambiguity 
•    Strong ability to balance strategic vision with hands-on operational focus in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
•    Proven ability to prioritize and manage multiple complex projects, maintaining agility and effectiveness under pressure
•    High degree of self-motivation and accountability, with the ability to independently prioritize tasks and manage deliverables 

Up to 20% travel may be required.

Education

About Aramark

Our Mission

Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet.

At Aramark, we believe that every employee should enjoy equal employment opportunity and be free to participate in all aspects of the company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military status, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by applicable law.

About Aramark

The people of Aramark proudly serve millions of guests every day through food and facilities in 15 countries around the world. Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet. We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions, and empower your professional growth. So, no matter what you're pursuing - a new challenge, a sense of belonging, or just a great place to work - our focus is helping you reach your full potential. Learn more about working here at http://www.aramarkcareers.com or connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.