Financial Planning and Analysis Specialist

Overview

In this critical role, you will be a key business partner to R&D leadership, combining financial acumen, project management rigor, and data-driven insights to optimize resource allocation and accelerate the development of next-generation products. You will play a central role in managing R&D budgets, tracking project performance, and supporting the transition toward a more structured, outcome-based investment framework. This position is based in San Diego, CA, with the expectation of in-office collaboration.

Given the strong partnership with the Japan R&D and finance teams, the role requires flexibility to work evening hours to align with Japan time zones when and as needed.

Location and collaboration expectations:
San Diego, CA — in-office presence required for collaboration and alignment with local leadership.

• Optimize R&D Investments
  • Develop robust business and financial models to evaluate the viability and ROI of R&D projects.
  • Support prioritization of initiatives based on strategic and financial impact.
• Drive Operational Efficiency
  • Analyze R&D spending, headcount utilization, and Cap Ex/Opex mix to identify optimization opportunities.
  • Build scalable, repeatable processes to improve visibility and governance across project portfolios.
• Lead Budget Planning & Forecasting
  • Partner with engineering, product, and finance teams to manage annual and quarterly planning cycles.
  • Own consolidation, variance tracking, and reporting through Oracle EPM and related systems.
  • Support alignment between global and Japan R&D organizations on resource allocation and spend control.
• Deliver Actionable Insights
  • Build executive-ready presentations in PowerPoint, highlighting key metrics, trends, and recommendations.
  • Develop and maintain Excel-based dashboards, templates, and cost models for ongoing financial performance tracking.
• Strengthen Cross-Functional Alignment
  • Serve as a liaison between Japan-based leadership and global R&D finance teams.
  • Communicate clearly and proactively to ensure decisions are backed by data and aligned with global objectives.

• 3+ years of experience in Accounting or FP&A, business operations, or project management, ideally supporting R&D or technology organizations.
• Advanced Excel and PowerPoint skills, with the ability to design and deliver clear, executive-level presentations.
• Strong system orientation, including hands-on experience with Oracle EPM, ERP, or related financial planning systems.
• Analytical mindset with strong attention to detail and the ability to translate data into clear business narratives.
• Process-oriented and highly organized, with demonstrated ability to manage multiple stakeholders and deadlines.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal; able to synthesize complexity into clarity.
• Willingness to work evening hours to collaborate effectively with Japan counterparts.
• San Diego-based — in-office presence required for collaboration and alignment with local leadership.
• Bonus Points:
  • Experience in the semiconductor or embedded software industry.
  • Exposure to software project planning, capitalization, or R&D portfolio management.
  • Familiarity with tools like Power BI, Smart View, or other data visualization platforms.
  • Native or fluent Japanese language skills highly preferred, given regular engagement with Japan executives.