đ Drive Strategic Financial Leadership: Senior Manager - Financial Business Partnering (Chennai)
Join ICON plc, a world-leading healthcare intelligence and clinical research organization, as a Senior Manager of Financial Business Partnering in Chennai. This is a strategic leadership role where you will act as the critical bridge between finance and operations, providing the insights and guidance that drive informed decision-making, enhance business performance, and fuel our mission to shape the future of clinical development.
We are seeking an experienced finance leader with a strong commercial mindset to partner with senior business stakeholders. You will lead a team, translate complex data into actionable strategy, and play a pivotal role in financial planning, analysis, and performance optimization. If you are a strategic thinker with exceptional influencing skills and a passion for driving business results, this is your opportunity to impact a global organization at a senior level.
đŻ Your Strategic Finance Mission: Key Responsibilities
Strategic Business Partnership & Leadership
- Lead the financial business partnering function, serving as the trusted advisor to business unit leaders, providing comprehensive financial support, strategic insights, and challenge to drive value.
- Collaborate with senior leadership and cross-functional teams (Operations, Commercial, Project Management) to develop robust budgets, forecasts, and long-range financial plans aligned with organizational strategy.
- Prepare and present clear, impactful financial reports, analyses, and recommendations to senior management and stakeholders, influencing key business decisions.
Financial Performance & Analysis
- Conduct deep-dive financial analysis to evaluate project and business unit performance, identifying trends, risks, and opportunities for revenue growth, cost optimization, and operational efficiency.
- Develop and maintain sophisticated financial models to support scenario planning, investment appraisals, and strategic initiatives.
- Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and provide proactive insights to steer business performance toward financial targets.
Team Leadership & Development
- Mentor, coach, and develop a team of financial analysts, fostering a high-performance culture of continuous learning, accuracy, and business acumen.
- Drive process improvements within the finance business partnering team to enhance the quality, timeliness, and impact of financial deliverables.
Commercial & Operational Support
- Partner closely with operational leaders to understand business drivers, providing financial guidance on contract pricing, resource allocation, and investment decisions.
- Support commercial teams with pricing strategies and bid defense preparations through insightful financial modeling and analysis.
â Your Profile: Senior Manager Qualifications
Essential Requirements
- Degree in Finance, Accounting, Business, or a related field. An MBA or professional certification (CPA, CMA, ACCA, CFA) is highly preferred.
- Extensive, proven experience (typically 8+ years) in financial business partnering, FP&A, or commercial finance, with a track record of supporting senior stakeholders in a complex, multinational environment.
- Strong preference for experience within the pharmaceutical, CRO, healthcare, or professional services sectors.
- Exceptional analytical and financial modeling skills, with mastery of budgeting, forecasting, and performance analysis techniques.
Core Competencies & Leadership Attributes
- Strategic Influencer:Â Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, with a proven ability to build relationships, influence decisions, and present complex financial information to non-finance stakeholders at all levels.
- Commercial Acumen:Â Ability to translate operational activities into financial outcomes and provide commercially astute recommendations.
- Proactive Problem-Solver:Â Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with a forward-looking approach to identify risks and opportunities.
- Leader & Developer:Â Demonstrated experience in leading, mentoring, and developing a high-performing team.
- Systems Proficiency:Â Advanced skills in ERP systems (Oracle, SAP) and Microsoft Excel. Experience with BI tools (Power BI, Tableau) is an advantage.
đŤ Why Build Your Finance Leadership Career at ICON?
Impact Business Strategy at a Global Level
- Move beyond reporting to become a true strategic partner, directly influencing the decisions that drive growth and operational excellence in a mission-critical industry.
- Your work will have a tangible impact on the financial health and strategic direction of a world-leading CRO.
Lead and Grow in a Supportive Environment
- This is a high-visibility leadership role within our global finance function, based in our key Chennai hub.
- Lead a talented team and shape the future of the business partnering function.
- Clear pathways for career advancement into Director-level and regional/global finance leadership roles.
Be Part of a Collaborative, Inclusive Culture
- Join a diverse, dynamic, and high-performing team that values strategic thinking, innovation, and collaboration.
- Work in an environment where inclusion and belonging are fundamental to our culture and values.
Competitive ICON Benefits in India
- Attractive senior leadership compensation package.
- Comprehensive health insurance offerings for you and your family.
- Generous annual leave entitlements.
- Competitive retirement planning offerings (PF, Gratuity).
- Global Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) providing 24/7 support.
- Flexible benefits and a strong commitment to your ongoing professional development.
â¨Â Ready to Be the Strategic Financial Voice for the Business?
If you are a seasoned finance professional with a partnership mindset, exceptional leadership skills, and a desire to drive business performance in a meaningful sector, we encourage you to apply. This Senior Manager role is your chance to lead from the front and shape the financial future of our operations.
Apply Now and become the strategic financial leader who partners with the business to achieve new heights of performance.
