Job description

About the Role

We are looking for a strategic Commercial Finance Manager to join our European finance team located in Munich, Germany. This pivotal role involves partnering closely with commercial teams to enhance profitability via pricing strategy development, investment assessments, and comprehensive financial planning. The focus lies on detailed financial evaluations spanning product lines, brands, customers, and channels, aiming to optimize pricing and increase gross margins.

Key Responsibilities

Work collaboratively with Sales, Marketing, Trade, and Strategy departments to deliver crucial financial insights that support business decisions.
Shape commercial approaches by evaluating return on investment, pricing and mix effects, promotional success, and profitability across channels.
Assist in launching new products, define route-to-market approaches, and optimize trade agreements.
Identify and assess pricing opportunities across diverse markets and sales channels.
Lead development of pricing strategies and execute value chain analyses to expand portfolio gross margin.
Handle pricing change evaluations including margin effects, volume projections, and competitor pricing comparisons.
Maintain accurate pricing databases and manage quarterly pricing report submissions.
Oversee financial strategies and assessments for new product introductions and Europe-specific projects.
Monitor the performance and return on investment of launched products and strategic plans.
Manage and optimize marketing and trade expenditure for product launches.
Direct commercial financial planning initiatives including budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning related to marketing expenditures, pricing, and trade investments.
Conduct variance analyses comparing actual results with forecasts to uncover risks and opportunities early.
Provide budgetary support for net turnover and gross margin targets.
Ensure compliance with global financial processes and governance standards.
Assist in addressing audit inquiries regarding net turnover, gross margin, and trade incentives.

Qualifications and Skills

Master's degree in Finance, Accounting, or Business Administration.
At least 8 years of experience in Commercial Finance, Financial Planning & Analysis, or Business Partnering preferably in FMCG or tobacco industries.
Proficiency in advanced Excel functions, financial modelling, and conducting scenario analyses.
Familiarity with ERP systems such as D365 or Oracle and business intelligence tools like Power BI or Tableau.
Deep understanding of profit and loss drivers, trade dynamics, and go-to-market business models.
Strong communication and persuasion abilities.
Detail-oriented, analytical mindset with commercial insight.
Capacity to excel in a dynamic, regulated business environment.
Fluency in English required; German language skills are an advantage.