We're seeking a strategic, data-driven Forecasting & Planning Analyst to take ownership of core performance and planning models. This pivotal role shapes business decisions by delivering clear insights, accurate forecasts, and data-backed recommendations. It's an excellent pathway position offering high senior visibility and direct impact on company performance. This is a great role for someone coming from a analytics, finance or commercial background. Our client is a rapidly growing, award-winning technology company in the financial services sector. They prioritise people, planet, and profit, creating a workplace culture that values wellbeing, development, and employee voice. They're consistently ranked among the top employers in the UK. The business has a strong track record of growth and are transforming the industry through innovative digital solutions that bring simplicity and transparency to complex financial decisions. The mission-driven approach focuses on supporting customers while maintaining the highest standards of integrity and service. Role & Responsibilities: Own and enhance core forecasting and performance models including: Daily/weekly trading performance tracking Rolling quarterly planning and forecasting Long-range annual business planning Drive input quality and model accuracy through: Collaboration with Data & Insights teams to improve forecast automation Integration of seasonal trends and real-time performance drivers Partnership with Marketing, Partnerships, Commercial, and Insights teams to evaluate new initiative impacts Monitoring and analysing market trends to deliver actionable business insights Create cross-functional alignment by connecting activities across teams and reflecting their impact in forecasts and trading plans Influence senior decision-making through scenario modelling and business strategy analysis Support Commercial Director with strategic analysis including competitive intelligence, market shifts, and emerging opportunities Skills & Experience: Strong academic background with excellent analytical capabilities Experience with forecasting is desirable but not essential! Advanced Excel skills (Tableau and SQL useful but not essential) Exceptional business acumen with ability to quickly understand key value drivers Growth mindset with commercial awareness and strategic thinking Excellent relationship-building skills across all organizational levels Thrives in fast-paced, dynamic environments Desire to be central to business performance and growth decisions Strong communication and presentation abilities Proactive approach with ability to work independently Career Development This is an excellent pathway role designed for ambitious professionals looking to accelerate their career. The position offers 12-24 months of intensive experience at the heart of business performance and growth decisions, providing exceptional preparation for senior roles. The successful candidate will work directly with senior leadership, gaining invaluable exposure to strategic decision-making processes and commercial operations. As an industry leading, nationwide Marketing, Digital, Analytics, IT and Design recruitment agency, we are continually receiving new assignments to work on, so keep a close eye on our website, Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter pages for a full list of current permanent and interim opportunities as well as marketplace news and fun stuff. Forward Role is operating as an employment agency.