Financial Analyst

Financial Analyst

Department: Finance / Accounting / Audit

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: US - Wisconsin - Madison

Description

At Franklin Electric, Finance plays a critical role in driving business performance and supporting sound decision-making across the organization. As a Financial Analyst I, you will support both financial analysis and accounting activities while gaining broad exposure to the financial operations of a global manufacturing company.

This entry-level role is ideal for a recent graduate or early-career professional looking to develop expertise in financial reporting, forecasting, budgeting, cost analysis, and accounting processes. Working closely with finance leadership and cross-functional teams, you will help provide meaningful insights that support profitability, operational performance, and strategic initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Analysis & Reporting

• Assist with monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reporting activities.
• Analyze financial results and investigate variances between actual results, forecasts, and budgets.
• Support forecasting, annual operating plan (AOP), and budgeting processes.
• Prepare recurring and ad hoc financial analyses to support business decisions.
• Assist in monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs), profitability metrics, and operational trends.
• Develop reports and dashboards that improve visibility into financial and operational performance.
• Help identify risks, opportunities, and business trends through data analysis.
• Support finance leadership in preparing presentations and reporting materials for management reviews.
• Partner with sales organization on reporting and performance vs. incentive plans.

Accounting & Financial Operations

• Assist with month-end and year-end close processes.
• Prepare journal entries and account reconciliations.
• Support general ledger maintenance and ensure accuracy of financial records.
• Investigate and resolve account discrepancies.
• Assist with audit requests and documentation.

Process Improvement & Data Analytics

• Assist in improving reporting processes through standardization, automation, and enhanced data accuracy.
• Support initiatives focused on data quality, governance, and reporting efficiency.
• Leverage Excel, ERP systems, and business intelligence tools to analyze and present financial information.
• Contribute to continuous improvement projects that strengthen financial processes and decision-making capabilities.

Skills Knowledge and Expertise

• Bachelor''s degree in finance, Accounting, Business, Economics, or a related field.
• 0-2 years of relevant experience, including internships or co-op experience.
• Understanding of financial statements, budgeting, forecasting, and accounting principles.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Internship or experience within a manufacturing environment, public accounting or other similar experience.
• Familiarity with ERP systems, preferably JD Edwards (JDE).
• Experience with Power BI, Microsoft Business Intelligence tools, or similar reporting platforms.
• Exposure to cost accounting concepts and inventory analysis.
• Progress toward CPA, CMA, or other professional certifications.

Key Competencies

• Financial Analysis
• Business Partnership
• Problem Solving
• Data Analytics
• Attention to Detail
• Communication
• Continuous Improvement
• Time Management
• Collaboration
• Learning Agility