Senior Associate - Spend Review

Role overview

This position serves as the operational lead for assigned Spend Reviews, combining technical financial analysis with close coordination of stakeholders and steady management of delivery from data gathering through to final recommendations. The role requires strong ownership of progress, outputs, and cross-functional coordination.

Core responsibilities

• Act as the main contact for assigned Spend Reviews and coordinate smoothly with entities, internal teams, and external advisors.
• Take responsibility for the day-to-day execution of each review, keeping work aligned with the agreed scope, milestones, and deadlines.
• Plan and sequence analytical activities, including the coordination of workstreams and information requests.
• Work with entity counterparts to confirm requirements, chase missing data, and remove blockers.
• Spot delivery risks, dependencies, and delays early, and escalate them with practical solutions when needed.
• Carry out in-depth financial, operational, and performance analysis for the assigned reviews.
• Examine historical budgets, spending patterns, cost drivers, and operational efficiency.
• Build sound financial models to assess savings opportunities, reform impacts, and fiscal trade-offs.
• Run scenario analysis, sensitivity checks, and option comparisons to inform decisions.
• Bring together strategic, operational, and financial findings into clear conclusions supported by evidence.
• Perform benchmarking and comparative analysis across entities, sectors, or peer jurisdictions.
• Prepare polished presentations, exhibits, and analytical materials for senior stakeholders.
• Draft key sections of Spend Review reports, briefing notes, and executive updates.
• Make sure all analytical outputs are accurate, well supported, and ready for decision-making.
• Review, check, and quality-assure analytical work completed by Analysts.
• Keep Spend Review trackers updated with data requests, analysis progress, decisions, and next actions.
• Help improve Spend Review methods, templates, and delivery tools over time.
• Support the line manager and complete any other related duties assigned.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree or higher in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a closely related discipline.
• Professional credentials such as CMA or CFA are an advantage.

Additional information

This is a full-time, onsite position based in Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates.