Financial Analyst

at  ASCEND

Ascend is transforming the regional truckload sector by leveraging technology, building density, and offering driver-friendly routes and policies—making us the carrier of choice for shippers that demand high performance and flexibility at competitive rates, and the employer of choice for drivers seeking a better work-life balance.

ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Accurately and timely completes month-end close, budgeting, forecasting, and preparation of monthly financial statements, and assists business unit leaders with the analysis of their business unit performance.
• Analyze the company’s activities and trends and compare analysis against service standards and best practices.
• Work closely with Business Intelligence Analyst (BIA) personnel to identify and maximize information and technology to improve business processes and financial and operational metrics.
• Analysts will analyze the profitability of operations through basic financial and statistical modeling and reporting, and make appropriate recommendations, leading to positive operational effectiveness.
• Assist in implementing the Annual Operating Plans for various areas of responsibility.
• Assist in the development of tactical and strategic initiatives to support organization objectives and identify strategies for implementation.
• Responsible for developing and maintaining forecast models to properly inform the Executive Leadership Team of expected operational results.
• Proactively identify opportunities for operational and financial improvement.
• Present findings and assist in implementation.
• Prepares quarterly reporting package for the Board of Directors and Executive Team.
• Support business units in successfully executing plans and reaching forecasted goals.
• Heavily involved in the preparation and creation of the Annual Operating Plan and Rolling Forecast process.
• Proactively seek opportunities to broaden and deepen knowledge base and proficiencies.
• Model and promote Ascends Values: Zero Safety Events; Be Courageous; Act with Integrity; Inspire Trust; Teamwork; Have Fun and Build a Legacy.

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND TRAITS

• Ability to create advanced interactive and variable financial models with measurement tools including NPV, IRR, WACC, ROA, and ROI (return on investment).
• Intermediate Microsoft Office skills (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Ability to query raw data using Microsoft Query, VBA, Business Objects, and Sequel.
• Strong interpersonal, written, and presentation skills.
• Ability to multi-task and prioritize workload.
• Intermediate knowledge of accounting, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.
• Ability to deliver exceptional service through positive engagement and patience.
• Ability to work in a team environment to continuously improve results.
• Ability to promote a culture of trust and safety.

EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS, & LICENSE REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s degree in business, Finance, or Accounting or equivalent.
• Minimum of 2 years of Financial Analysis.
• Minimum of 1 budget planning and forecasting cycle.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY COMMITMENT

Ascend is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse, inclusive environment where all individuals may grow and thrive, respecting the different experiences that each employee brings to their job. Ascend believes that a diverse work environment results in a better experience for employees and customers and makes Ascend stronger.
With our mission of diversity and inclusion in mind, we provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions), religion, age, disability, citizenship, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity or expression), marital status, ancestry, genetic information, veteran and/or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law or Ascend policy.
This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees in this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required for this position, other duties outside of normal responsibilities may be performed as necessary to meet the needs of the organization. Nothing in this position description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this position at any time.
Employee’s acknowledgment constitutes employee’s understanding of the principal accountabilities and duties of the position and certifies that they are physically able to perform the necessary duties in the work environment.

Ascends Financial Analyst is accountable for analyzing the profitability of operations through basic financial and statistical modeling and reporting, and making appropriate recommendations, leading to positive operational effectiveness.