Mastering Financial Statements (Financial Planning & Analysis)

Course Overview

This financial analysis course provides an understanding of how financial planning and analysis can be applied by companies to gain a competitive edge in terms of identifying cost patterns, uncovering savings and maintaining cash flow.

The key element of the programme is the focus on practical application of financial models and analysis. These are used to assess strategic and operational positions by investigating a wide range of options for reducing cost and thereby creating additional value for companies.

Course Focus

You will learn how to perform financial analysis, the tools you should use and how to interpret the results. You will also learn about a variety of ways of maximising profit and how current business philosophy adds non-financial goals to this target to achieve a more balanced company and a more fulfilling business environment.

• Using financial statements to analyse performance

• Working capital management and optimisation

• Strategic cost management

• The balanced scorecard & strategy

• Capital budgeting and investment appraisal

Key Learning Outcomes

• Undertake financial analysis training in order to apply financial models and analytical tools

• Provide recommendations to support strategic initiatives such as productivity increases, risk mitigation, and the optimisation of profitability

• Analyse and report on the financial implications of various operational decisions and recommend a course of action

• Create and drive business intelligence and planning improvements within an organisation

• Identify business performance reporting challenges and priorities

• Develop and monitor specific performance indicators, reporting on trends and identifying causes of unexpected variance

• Conduct financial modelling, analysis and valuation exercises to support new product development and other ad hoc initiatives

• Prepare and present reports to senior management with confidence