Finance Analyst Location: Hybrid/Manchester Salary: £30-40k Role Overview We re looking for a Finance Analyst to join a dynamic cost finance function and play a key role in providing clear, actionable analysis and insight across a large and complex cost base. You''ll partner with senior stakeholders to support financial performance, identify cost efficiencies, and influence strategic investment decisions. This role is ideal for a data-driven professional with strong Excel skills, experience working with large datasets and who is calm under pressure. Key Responsibilities Business Performance and Analysis Deliver high-quality cost reports, rolling forecasts, and variance analysis with clear narrative. Support month-end close including journal review, accruals, and cost investigation. Identify and validate cost-saving opportunities, supporting business case development. Track delivery of financial benefits and use KPIs to monitor cost performance. Contribute to budgeting and forecasting cycles for both staff and non-staff costs. Stakeholder Engagement Build effective relationships with business leaders as a trusted financial partner. Present data-driven insights to support operational and strategic decision-making. Promote ownership and accountability for cost performance across business areas. Operational and System Excellence Maintain and enhance financial planning models (Anaplan preferred; TM1 useful). Perform regular checks and audits to ensure strong model governan