Finance Manager - Business Partner

ZS is a professional services firm that works side by side with companies to help develop and deliver products that drive customer value and company results. From R&D to portfolio strategy, customer insights, marketing and sales strategy, operations and technology, we leverage our deep industry expertise and leading-edge analytics to create solutions that work in the real world. Our most valuable asset is our people—a fact that’s reflected in our values-driven organization in which new perspectives are integral and new ideas are celebrated. ZSers are passionately committed to helping companies and their customers thrive in industries ranging from healthcare and life sciences, to high-tech, financial services, travel and transportation, and beyond. ZS’s Corporate Enterprise Functions operate the firm’s core internal functions. Our global teams comprise team-oriented, pragmatic and results-driven people who thrive in a challenging work environment. Our people come from diverse backgrounds but share a passion for quality customer service and dedication—whether our customer is a client or another ZS employee. The Finance team is responsible for all ZS financial matters, including financial planning, analysis, reporting, accounts receivable, general ledger and tax FINANCE MANAGER – FP&A We seek an experienced finance professional to join our Evanston, Illinois office (we are flexible to other locations.) Successful candidates will be responsible for providing strategic analysis and insight to our leadership team, which will aid in influencing actions that steer the firm in the direction of profitability. This role requires an individual to possess a strong foundation in financial management as well as the ability to lead with a consultative approach in order to build credibility with business leaders. You will work closely with Finance colleagues, Principals and our delivery teams. Responsibilities: Partner with our Region Managing Principals on financial and headcount strategy Own the company's short and long term planning process and ongoing support Support ad-hoc company initiatives as a part of cross-functional teams Communicate company strategies with members of Finance, other enterprise departments, and our business groups Deliver analysis and present findings to senior business stakeholders; Maximize growth and profitability of business unit through budgeting, forecasting, and business plans; Understand cost drivers to aid region leads in improving margin and profitability for a space or the business overall Analyze financial results, explain key findings and highlight areas of concern and variances to senior management. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or Business required (advanced degree preferred); 7+ years of relevant work experience in a finance role, 3 - 6 years of relevant experience in financial management roles supporting stakeholders in a project-based industry (professional services, outsourcing preferred); Strong analytic and critical thinking abilities; Effective written and oral communication skills, ability to establish relationships with stakeholders; Close attention to detail, coupled with good judgment to know when to challenge practices or assumptions; High energy and motivation, with a commitment to quality client service; Ability to work closely with management teams while retaining an objective and professional finance perspective; Ability to multi-task in a fast paced, rapidly-changing environment. ZS is a global consulting firm. Fluency in English is required; additional fluency in at least one European or Asian language is desirable. Candidates must possess or be able to obtain work authorization for their intended country of employment. An on-line application, including a full set of transcripts (official or unofficial), is required to be considered. ZS offers a competitive compensation package with salary and bonus incentives, complete medical/dental/life insurance programs and retirement savings benefits. ZS is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment and advancement opportunities without regard to any class protected by applicable law. ZS is committed to providing and maintaining a safe workplace. Must have received or be willing to receive the COVID-19 vaccination by date of hire to be considered. Proof of vaccination will be required. Religious/Medical Exemptions can be requested on a limited basis upon hire. NO AGENCY CALLS, PLEASE.