S&OP Finance Analyst at Unilever

JOB PURPOSE

• To lead the S&OP (Sales and Operations Planning) forecasting process and commercial scenario planning for Southern Africa, while owning key forecasting systems, tools, and automation initiatives (e.g. Oracle Forecasting and Reporting, Advanced Analytics, Machine Learning). The role acts as the central integrator between finance, commercial, and systems teams, ensuring robust, timely, and insight-led decision making.

Key Responsibilities

S&OP & Scenario Planning Leadership

• Own and coordinate the quarterly S&OP forecasting cycle, ensuring alignment across business groups and stakeholders
• Develop and maintain commercial scenarios (volume, price, mix) to support leadership decision-making
• Ensure delivery against strict timelines, with clear governance and tracking of inputs and outputs
• Challenge assumptions to improve forecast accuracy and credibility

Systems & Forecasting Capability Ownership

• Act as the business owner and go-to expert for GCUT and forecasting tools
• Drive continuous improvement in forecasting systems, including automation, simplification, and data integrity
• Lead the adoption of advanced analytics and machine learning solutions to enhance forecasting capability
• Partner with global and technical teams to deliver system enhancements and resolve issues

Commercial Finance Business Partnering

• Translate forecasts into clear commercial insights, highlighting risks and opportunities
• Provide strong analytical support on performance drivers, including price, volume, and mix
• Engage with finance and commercial teams to interpret results and guide decision-making
• Proactively identify inconsistencies and ensure alignment between financials and operational realities

Stakeholder Management & Governance

• Coordinate across Finance, Supply Chain, Commercial, and Global teams to drive alignment
• Ensure strong communication and clarity throughout the S&OP process
• Act as a trusted partner to senior stakeholders, providing clear, fact-based recommendations

Profile & Capabilities

• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to interpret and challenge financial and operational data
• Proven experience in S&OP, forecasting, or financial planning processes
• Deep understanding of forecasting tools/systems (e.g. GCUT or similar)
• High capability in analytics and data interpretation; exposure to automation or advanced analytics is advantageous
• Excellent stakeholder management and coordination skills, with the ability to work across multiple teams
• Strong delivery mindset with the ability to operate under tight timelines and high-pressure cycles

Skills

• Financial Analysis
• Proficiency in SAP and Microsoft Excel
• Excellent communication and influencing skills.
• Stakeholder Management

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum 3-5 years experience in Finance, with strong exposure to business performance and planning
• At least 3 years in FP&A, S&OP, or forecasting roles, with demonstrated ownership of planning cycles
• BCom Accounting (or equivalent) is required
• CA(SA), CIMA, or similar professional qualification is advantageous
• Data Analytics certification (or equivalent practical experience) preferred
• Experience in FMCG or a similar fast-paced, high-volume industry is required
• Strong exposure to forecasting systems (e.g. GCUT, SAP, Hyperion Essbase, or similar planning tools)
• Experience working with or driving automation, digital transformation, or machine learning initiatives is highly beneficial