Junior Financial Analyst | Senior Analyst | FP&A Director
Definition of financial analysis and FP&A roles
Financial analysis and FP&A (Financial Planning & Analysis) jobs play a crucial role in planning, forecasting, and optimizing organizational performance. These positions transform financial data into strategic insights that guide management decisions.
From the Junior Financial Analyst to the Senior Analyst and the FP&A Director, these roles act as a bridge between operations, finance, and strategy. They are particularly valued in growing companies and large organizations where budgeting and performance tracking are essential.
Typical responsibilities by level
Junior Financial Analyst
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Prepare periodic financial reports.
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Assist in budgets and forecasts under supervision.
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Conduct variance analysis (budget vs. actuals).
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Collect and structure financial data.
Senior Financial Analyst
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Build and manage complex financial models.
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Analyze profitability by product, project, or division.
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Provide strategic recommendations to management.
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Mentor junior analysts and improve reporting tool
FP&A Director
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Lead FP&A teams and coordinate annual budgeting and forecasting.
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Present results and recommendations to senior management and investors.
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Implement advanced forecasting and performance measurement tools.
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Collaborate with other departments (sales, operations, marketing) to align financial and business strategy.
Key skills required for financial analysis and FP&A roles
Junior Analyst
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Proficiency in Excel (pivot tables, formulas, lookups).
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Strong attention to detail and communication skills.
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Ability to work with large datasets.
Senior Analyst
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Advanced skills in Excel, financial modeling, and BI tools (Power BI, Tableau).
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Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
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Ability to simplify and present complex analyses.
FP&A Director
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Leadership and strategic vision.
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Experience in team management and presenting to executives.
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Proficiency with ERP systems and advanced reporting tools.
Education and experience requirements
Junior Analyst: Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, economics, or related field, 0–3 years of experience.
Senior Analyst: 4–8 years of experience, CPA, CFA, or MBA considered an asset.
FP&A Director: 8–15 years of experience with proven leadership; CPA/CFA strongly recommended.
Differences between SMEs and large corporations
In SMEs
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Analysts are more versatile: budgeting, reporting, and ad hoc analysis.
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Close collaboration with executives, strong involvement in decision-making.
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FP&A Directors (when present) often cover both finance and operations.
In large corporations
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Roles are more specialized (revenue analyst, cost analyst, market analyst).
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Complex budgeting processes involving multiple levels of review.
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FP&A Directors oversee full departments and manage investor reporting.
Career outlook and progression
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From Junior Analyst to Senior Analyst to FP&A Director.
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Opportunities to move into Financial Controller, Finance Director, or VP Finance roles.
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Career paths may also lead to corporate strategy, investment, or consulting.
Salary in financial analysis & FP&A in Quebec
Junior Analyst: CAD $60,000 – $75,000.
Senior Analyst: CAD $80,000 – $100,000.
FP&A Director: CAD $110,000 – $150,000.