Associate, Cost Management FP&A

Job Posting Organization:
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is an international financial institution founded in 199

• Its mission is to foster the transition towards open market-oriented economies and to promote private and entrepreneurial initiative in countries from Central Europe to Central Asia and the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean. The EBRD operates in over 30 countries and employs approximately 2,000 staff members. The organization is committed to sustainable development and aims to support the growth of the private sector in its regions of operation.

Job Overview:
The Associate, Cost Management FP&A plays a crucial role in managing cost-related tasks for various departments within the Bank. This position is part of the Budget team, which is responsible for establishing and monitoring the Bank's administrative and capital expenditure budgets. The Associate will work closely with the Associate Director, Head of Cost Management, to provide support in advising budget holders on budget utilization and preparing resource proposals. The role involves detailed expenditure analysis, productivity analysis, and monitoring budget execution, contributing to the preparation of key Bank documents for senior management and the Board. The Associate will also maintain relevant policies and procedures related to resource management, ensuring compliance with budget and accounting guidelines.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Associate will be responsible for actively monitoring business plans and budget execution for assigned departments, providing first-line advice and guidance to budget holders, and developing resource analysis for senior management and the Board. Monthly monitoring and reporting of expenses against budgets, conducting regular forecasts, and analyzing cost performance are key duties. The Associate will coordinate the annual budget proposal and forecast process, support the development of cost allocation methodologies, and engage in discussions with budget holders to ensure efficient budget implementation. Additionally, the role includes analyzing productivity across teams, managing small projects related to resource analysis, and collaborating with businesses to develop models for new initiatives. Training of Budget Officers and undertaking financial modeling for strategic decisions are also part of the responsibilities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have proven experience in cost management issues and should be a qualified accountant, CFA qualified, or possess a relevant Master's degree along with strong practical experience in finance. A solid accounting knowledge and financial background are essential, along with excellent numeric and analytical skills. Stakeholder management and negotiation skills are crucial, as is a commitment to continuous improvement and innovative solutions. Proficiency in IT systems, particularly accounting packages and Excel for modeling, is required. Strong relationship management skills, the ability to work under pressure, and excellent drafting and presentation skills are also necessary.

Educational Background:
The position requires a strong educational background in finance or accounting. Candidates should hold a relevant degree, such as a Bachelor's or Master's in Finance, Accounting, or a related field. Professional qualifications such as CPA or CFA are highly desirable and will be considered an asset.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have significant experience in cost management, financial analysis, or a related field. A background in a financial institution or similar environment is preferred, with a demonstrated ability to manage budgets and provide financial insights. Experience in stakeholder engagement and project management will be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent written and oral communication skills. Knowledge of additional languages is considered a plus, particularly those relevant to the regions in which the EBRD operates.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position with a short-term contract lasting six months. The role is based in London, United Kingdom. The EBRD promotes a hybrid workplace model that emphasizes flexibility and inclusivity. The organization values diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their background. The EBRD offers a comprehensive suite of competitive benefits and prioritizes employee wellbeing.