Business Associate, Projects & Financial Analysis GSM

Purpose

The purpose of this role to act as the central support hub for GSM’s business development, client delivery, and growth efforts globally by conducting financial modelling, market research, competitor analysis and business planning.  They hey prepare reports to support high level decision making for market expansion, maintain organizational structures for business leads and qualification processes, and support core project management functions during the lead to client transition. They maintain organizational structures for business leads and qualification processes, and support core project management functions during the lead to client transition.

Key Accountability

Financial Modelling & Analysis

• Develop financial models for new school opportunities to test schools’ viability.
• Ensure Target Financial thresholds are met, and assumptions and inputs are corroborated by valid assumptions.
• Sensitise models for business development / business optimization.
• Financial analysis to facilitate decision making, and commercial negotiation with clients.
• Support the preparation of Investment Committee Packs to seek approval to engage on GSM contracts / new market entry.

Market Intelligence & Feasibility Studies

• Analyse industry trends, competitor benchmarks, and regulatory changes to identify growth opportunities.
• Make recommendations on potential actionable business strategies based on research to target new markets or customer segments.
• Perform / scope market feasibility studies and developing sales projections in line with financial models for new projects.
• Work closely with GSM’s Research Analyst to assimilate research data points for new market entry and existing market penetration.
• Identify partnerships, stakeholders, and strategic alliances to expand market presence.

Pipeline and Lead Management

• Contribute to lead sourcing and qualification by researching market trends to identify new business opportunities and qualify inbound/outbound leads to ensure they align with target profiles.
• Track the progress of leads through the sales funnel stages; identify bottlenecks, and ensure a robust, well-organized pipeline via CRM system as well as in line with established KPIs.
• Support Partnerships team with proposal and bid coordination; assist with the preparation of compelling proposals, presentations, and marketing materials for potential clients.
• Generate regular reports on growth, new opportunities, and pipeline health to management and senior Partnerships’ team progress/performance.
• Support client and project due diligence processes; maintain organization of underlying documents and due diligence outcomes.
• Develop and maintain project management tools during client onboarding and project pre-operational set-up.
• Participate in project management working groups and support client services in coordination with colleagues throughout the organization.

Qualifications and Expected Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, business, economics, or related field
• Qualification as ACA / ACCA / CFA / CPA. PMP is a plus
• 5+ years post-qualification experience in financial modelling and report writing ideally in education, public private partnerships, real estate development or impact sectors
• Experience in conducting marketing research, competitor analysis, and making recommendations to facilitate decision making
• Experience in project management including creating bespoke gant charts
• Experience across international markets is preferred

Job-Specific Knowledge & Skills

• Solid financial acumen, market forecasting, and analytical skills
• Strong project management skills
• Strong attention to detail and organizational abilities
• Ability to cultivate executive-level relationships
• Strong presentation, communication and stakeholder management skills
• Collaborative mindset proactive approach to supporting team productivity
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence senior stakeholders and negotiate agreements
• Proficiency in CRM and executive reporting

GEMS Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all of its students and staff. A UK-enhanced DBS or equivalent police check is a pre-requisite for all appointments.