Senior Specialist, Financial Planning and Analysis

Company Overview

Sapphire, a dynamic joint venture headquartered in the Special Integrated Logistics Zone (SILZ) in Riyadh, is at the forefront of advancing Saudi Arabia’s industrial capabilities through the development and manufacturing of cutting-edge industrial robots. Our mission is to drive the next generation of automation, smart manufacturing, and advanced industrial solutions, positioning the Kingdom as a global leader in technological innovation and operational excellence.

Role Summary

The Senior Specialist, Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) plays a pivotal role in shaping the financial strategy and operational efficiency of Sapphire. Reporting directly to the FP&A Manager, this position is responsible for leading and executing core financial functions, including budgeting, forecasting, financial modeling, and management reporting. Additionally, the role encompasses treasury operations such as cash flow management, liquidity planning, cash forecasting, and banking relationships. The Senior Specialist will provide critical oversight to ensure the accuracy, integrity, and strategic alignment of financial reports, models, and analyses. This position demands advanced analytical expertise, a proactive approach, and the ability to translate complex financial data into actionable insights that influence key stakeholders and drive informed decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

Budgeting & Financial Planning

• Lead the annual budgeting process and support periodic forecasting cycles to ensure alignment with strategic objectives and operational realities.
• Develop and deliver comprehensive financial stewardship and management reports, providing insights and actionable recommendations to senior leadership.
• Conduct detailed variance analysis (actual vs. budget/forecast) to identify key drivers and trends, enabling proactive decision-making.
• Design, maintain, and enhance financial models to support strategic planning, forecasting, and long-term financial initiatives.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support long-term planning and strategic financial initiatives, ensuring alignment with corporate goals.

Financial Reporting & Compliance

• Prepare supporting schedules for financial statements and Zakat filings, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and accounting standards.
• Assist in the preparation of financial statements in accordance with applicable accounting policies and international standards.
• Consolidate and prepare Board and management reporting packages, delivering clear, accurate, and insightful financial information.
• Review financial data to ensure accuracy, completeness, and adherence to internal controls and governance frameworks.
• Support internal and external audit processes, including the preparation of audit schedules and timely responses to auditor inquiries.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of financial policies and procedures, ensuring alignment with best practices and regulatory mandates.

Financial Analysis & Business Support

• Provide financial analysis and advisory support to management and business units, enabling data-driven decision-making.
• Evaluate business performance, identify financial risks and opportunities, and recommend strategic interventions.
• Support the preparation of business cases, feasibility studies, and investment evaluations to guide capital allocation.
• Perform scenario and sensitivity analyses to assess the financial impact of strategic decisions and operational changes.
• Conduct financial reviews of loan agreements and prepare promissory notes to ensure compliance and optimal financing terms.
• Support financial due diligence activities to evaluate potential investments, partnerships, or acquisitions.

Banking & Cash Management

• Monitor daily cash positions to ensure liquidity and fund availability, enabling seamless operational continuity.
• Prepare and submit cash call requests, coordinate with banking partners, and resolve discrepancies to maintain financial accuracy.
• Perform and review bank reconciliations to ensure the integrity of cash records and financial reporting.
• Manage cash flow, liquidity, and working capital to optimize financial performance and operational efficiency.
• Oversee time deposits and short-term investments to enhance returns while maintaining liquidity and risk management.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with banking institutions to secure favorable terms and streamline financial operations.
• Support banking facilities and financing arrangements, ensuring compliance and timely execution of financial transactions.
• Process disbursements and MPS transactions with proper authorization and adherence to payment schedules.
• Manage and monitor the invoice tracker to ensure timely payments and financial accountability.
• Oversee insurance policies, including renewals, coverage adequacy, and claims coordination to mitigate operational risks.
• Support the implementation and monitoring of Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) practices, identifying, assessing, and tracking financial and operational risks.

Qualifications & Experience

A Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or professional certifications (e.g., CFA, CPA, or equivalent) are highly desirable. Candidates should possess a minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in financial planning and analysis, treasury, or a related finance function, with a proven track record in a corporate or industrial setting. Strong proficiency in financial modeling, ERP systems, and advanced Excel is essential. Excellent communication, analytical, and stakeholder management skills are critical to success in this role. Fluency in English is required, and Arabic language skills are a plus. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a high degree of ownership, strategic thinking, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.