Sr Financial Analyst- HYBRID

The Opportunity

At Designer Brands, numbers tell a story—and this role is where those stories turn into smart decisions. As a Senior Financial Analyst for DSW Demand, you'll be at the center of how we understand customer behavior, forecast demand, and plan for what's next. You'll work closely with teams across the business, offering insights that directly shape digital demand strategies, order projections, and financial outcomes. This is a visible, high‑impact role perfect for someone who excels in analytical thinking and thrives on solving complex problems with clarity and collaboration. This position is HYBRID to our Columbus, OH office.

What You'll Be Doing

Demand & Sales Forecasting

• Build and refine detailed daily, weekly, and monthly demand forecasts using a bottoms‑up approach.
• Incorporate trends, key selling metrics, and promotional plans to keep projections accurate and actionable.

Order & Inventory Alignment

• Translate demand forecasts into thoughtful order projections that support inventory strategies and operational needs.
• Partner with cross‑functional teams to ensure plans remain aligned as business priorities evolve.

Financial Oversight & Analysis

• Lead P&L management for assigned cost centers, including:
  • Budgeting: Develop annual financial plans in partnership with key business groups.
  • Tracking: Monitor results and surface meaningful drivers of performance.
  • Variance Analysis: Highlight risks, opportunities, and recommended next steps.
• Support quarterly earnings processes by preparing and updating financial materials with accuracy and consistency.

Performance Insights & Reporting

• Deliver daily and weekly reporting that helps the business understand what's working—and what needs attention.
• Analyze performance trends, identify emerging patterns, and provide clear, data‑backed recommendations.

Cross‑Functional Partnership

• Build trusted relationships with partners across Merchandising Planning & Analytics, Marketing Analytics, and Store & Fulfillment Operations.
• Share insights in a way that is accessible, actionable, and supportive of collaborative decision‑making.

What You'll Need

Core Skills

• Strong background in forecasting, financial modeling, and data analysis within a retail environment.
• Ability to translate complex data into clear, meaningful insights.
• Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated leadership and comfort influencing teams across the organization.
• Highly organized, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Strong analytical mindset and exceptional attention to detail.
• Proactive approach to identifying challenges and proposing solutions.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced setting.
• Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on efficiency and clarity.

Minimum Experience

• 3–5+ years of experience in Financial Planning & Analysis, preferably in retail.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including model building and complex formulas.

Minimum Education

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with business intelligence tools (e.g., MSI).
• Familiarity with financial systems such as Lawson, EPM, or similar platforms.