Principal Financial Planning Analyst

Principal Financial Planning Analyst

Location: Fairfax, VA

Employment Type: Full-Time

Reports To: Senior Director, Finance

A rapidly growing, private equity–backed technology and engineering firm in the aerospace and defense sector is seeking a Principal Financial Planning Analyst to join its finance team. This organization is recognized for its innovative solutions and commitment to supporting mission‑critical programs for government and commercial clients.

The Principal Financial Planning Analyst will serve as a strategic partner to executive leadership, driving financial insight, forecasting accuracy, and data‑driven decision making across the enterprise. This role is responsible for developing complex financial models, analyzing business performance, and supporting strategic planning initiatives that directly influence company growth and valuation. The ideal candidate combines analytical depth with strong business acumen and thrives in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment.

• Lead the development and maintenance of financial forecasts, annual operating plans, and long‑range strategic models
• Partner with executive leadership and functional teams to translate business drivers into actionable financial insights and performance metrics
• Analyze revenue, margin, and cost trends to identify opportunities for growth, efficiency, and improved profitability
• Drive monthly and quarterly management reporting, including variance analysis, KPIs, and executive presentations
• Support valuation modeling, scenario planning, and sensitivity analysis for board and investor discussions
• Collaborate cross‑functionally to improve forecast accuracy and streamline data flows across ERP, project, and BI systems
• Build and enhance financial models to support decision‑making around pricing, capital allocation, and resource planning
• Support due diligence, integration, and strategic initiatives related to private equity investment and future exit strategy
• Develop and refine dashboards and automated reporting tools to improve visibility and speed of information delivery
• Continuously evaluate and improve FP&A processes, tools, and methodologies to support a more agile, data‑driven finance function

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field
• 9+ years of progressive experience (or 7+ with a Master’s degree) in FP&A, corporate finance, or related analytical roles
• Experience in government contracting
• Advanced financial modeling and analytical skills, with demonstrated ability to translate data into actionable insights
• Experience with forecasting, budgeting, and variance analysis in a multi‑project or multi‑business environment
• Strong cross‑functional collaboration and executive communication skills
• Proficiency with Excel, Power BI (or similar), and ERP systems
• Proven success improving FP&A processes, data automation, or dashboarding initiatives
• Exceptional attention to detail, accuracy, and intellectual curiosity

• MBA, CMA, and/or CPA
• Experience in a private equity–backed environment
• Experience in manufacturing
• Familiarity with revenue recognition, indirect rate structures, and cost allocations
• Experience supporting valuation modeling, M&A, or investor reporting
• Strong business acumen and executive presence

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
• Life and disability insurance
• Ancillary benefits (accident, critical illness, hospital, pet)
• Spending accounts (HSA, FSA, DCFSA)
• Paid time off and holidays
• 401(k) with company match
• Tuition reimbursement
• Parental, pregnancy, and military leave
• Potential annual bonus

This employer is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by law. Reasonable accommodation is available for the application and interview process.