Director of Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A)

Director of Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A)

Position Summary

STR is seeking an innovative and strategic financial leader to serve as Director of FP&A. Reporting directly to the Chief Financial Officer, the Director will be responsible for all aspects of financial planning and analysis, including annual and long-term company-wide budgeting, forecasting, rate development, investment analysis, incentive compensation, and supporting executive-level reporting.

This is a transformative role for an experienced FP&A leader passionate about leveraging technology—particularly AI and advanced analytics—to drive business insight, operational efficiency, and scalable growth. The Director will operate as a key advisor to the CFO and executive team, ensuring STR's finance function exceeds the requirements typical of highly regulated and rapidly growing organizations.

We are seeking a leader who brings a high degree of financial rigor, governance discipline, and a forward-looking mindset—someone comfortable operating within the robust standards and expectations of highly complex, audit-intensive organizations.

We support flexible work arrangements for this role, including remote work within the U.S. For candidates located near our Woburn, MA office, a hybrid schedule is preferred to enable effective partnership, relationship building, and cross‑functional collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership:

Shape the future of the finance function as a member of the Finance Leadership Team by introducing best-in-class processes and tools for automation, efficiency, accuracy, and scalability.

AI & Analytics Transformation:

Champion adoption of AI and machine learning techniques within FP&A to enhance forecasting, scenario modeling, and data‑driven decision making. Evaluate and adopt emerging tools in financial planning, reporting, and analysis that leverage AI or predictive analytics capabilities.

Planning & Forecasting:

Oversee annual operating plans (AOP), monthly forecasts, and long‑range (LRP) strategic planning. Ensure tight alignment among operational, financial, and strategic objectives, and develop models explaining key drivers of business performance.

Rate Strategy & Analysis:

Develop and refine indirect rate strategies to ensure competitive, compliant, and forward‑looking cost structures consistent with contract requirements and company strategy.

Investment & Incentive Analysis:

Lead financial analysis and tracking for R&D, capital, facility, bid & proposal, and new product development investments. Partner with HR on incentive compensation plans, including performance modeling and target setting. Provide actionable analysis to inform strategic investment decisions.

KPI Development & Performance Oversight:

Lead the design and implementation of enterprise KPIs and financial metrics that provide investor‑grade transparency and integrity, supporting executive‑ and Board‑level decision‑making with timely insights.

Executive & Board Communication:

Prepare and deliver executive‑level presentations and actionable financial insights to the CFO, executive leadership, and Board of Directors, ensuring clarity and accuracy consistent with external stakeholder and boardroom expectations.

Governance & Financial Controls:

Establish and maintain rigorous financial controls, policies, and reporting standards to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and readiness for external audits and Board oversight.

Team Development:

Lead, mentor, and develop a high‑performing FP&A team. Build talent pipelines and foster a culture of innovation, accountability, and continuous learning.

Cross‑Functional Partnership:

Collaborate across STR to influence strategic decisions and drive data‑driven business outcomes as a trusted advisor to operations and functional leaders.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or related field required; MBA or Master's preferred.
• 15+ years of progressive accounting/finance experience in the defense contracting industry.
• At least 7 years of FP&A experience and 10 or more years in people management.
• Demonstrated leadership within complex, matrixed, and high‑growth organizations.
• Expertise with enterprise planning and financial analytics tools; experience implementing or championing emerging technologies such as AI and automation within finance preferred.
• Experience supporting external audits and government compliance (DCAA/DFARS).
• Familiarity with financial reporting, controls, and processes typical of highly regulated environments (e.g., SOX, SEC reporting, Board governance).
• Proven ability to implement and drive process improvements and innovation within FP&A.
• Advanced communication, collaboration, and executive presentation skills.
• Strong analytical and strategic problem‑solving abilities with meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to obtain a security clearance (U.S. citizenship required by DoD).

Desired Attributes

Change agent mindset; embraces a