Job Description:

The Manager, Financial Planning & Analysis provides financial and analytical decision-making support to senior management by developing short-, medium- and long-term financial forecasts, supporting restaurant operational initiatives and identifying opportunities for improving corporate and restaurant level performance. Prepare timely and accurate financial analysis and develop reporting and decision-making analytical tools to enable corporate management and the regional operations teams to assess the performance of restaurant operational initiatives, menu optimization initiatives, purchasing initiatives, marketing programs and investment opportunities returns.ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS & KEY RESPONSIBILITIESSupport the development of the annual budget and quarterly financial forecasts. Utilize existing projection models and develop new tools as necessary to improve and facilitate the current planning processes. Partner with the operations team to gather relevant data, assess and provide forecast input on restaurant sales, cost of sales, cost of labor, controllable costs, advertising, fixed expenses, etc.Responsible for the ongoing development, accurate preparation and timely distribution of weekly, monthly and quarterly reports, including KPI reports, weekly and monthly flash reports, monthly financial and operational reports, new restaurant performance, monthly capital expenditures actualforecast reports and other reports as requested by senior management.Provide financial and general business leadership to all levels of company and operations management to support the achievement of corporate and regional goals through identification and presentation of profit opportunities and financial results.Support the development of financial and operational tools to facilitate decision making of business partners in operations, purchasing, marketing, andor development. Provide analyses to evaluate the potential financial performance of alternative options.Partner with development team to project return on investment of new store openingsCreate or support the preparation of quantitative and qualitative analyses in the evaluation of potential brand opportunities as requested by operations, development or finance management. These analyses may involve development activity, food costs, labor costs, controllable costs, return on investment, general brand spending, marketing, etc.Lead monthly analysis projects including:Assist senior management in the prioritizing capital expenditures - emergency, equipment upgrades, remodels, etc.Develop cost reduction and management initiatives reporting.Provide assessment of G&A spending and make recommendations regarding potential cost savings andor reduction opportunities.Review projected menu price and food cost changes and evaluate financial impact.Identify underperforming units and work with operations and real estate teams in the analysis of store improvements, closures, lease renewals, etc.Identify opportunities for adding financial value to the company and prepare analyses to support value-added recommendations.Ensure, in coordination with other corporate departments, that raw data used in reporting, analysis, and planning is accurate and complete.Participate in special projects as requested.REQUIRED SKILLS & EDUCATION Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel. Working knowledge of database applications including Microsoft Access as well as Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint, and Microsoft OutlookStrong technical, analytical and problem solving skillsAdvanced understanding and working knowledge of budgeting, forecasting, and analysisStrong interpersonal verbal and written communication skillsSound knowledge of accounting and accounting principlesMinimum 3-6 years relevant work experience including financial andor operational analysisBachelor's degree in finance, economics, accounting, or a related fieldRestaurant or multi-unit retail experience in a financial planning and analysis position, preferredA Master's Degree in Business, Finance, or Accounting, preferred