Operations Budget Manager
Chester, Va
• Orchestrated a $305 million operating budget for a gas utility operating in PA, VA, MD, OH, KY, MA, and IN. Executed annual budget preparation, variance analysis, monthly strategic reviews with senior operations managers, and forecasting. Managed a team of four analysts responsible for financial planning for 6 operating companies.• Developed KPI metrics for key work activities that reduced overtime by 10% and increased productivity by 15%.• Developed reporting processes using Hyperion Planning, Cognos, and Microsoft Excel that delivered 25% reduction in cycle times for monthly reporting and annual budget development.• Increased accuracy of budget forecast versus actual spend to within 2% via a streamlined process.• Developed comprehensive financial plans (income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement) for three operating companies. Incorporated inputs from multiple departments and performed variance analysis against prior plans. • Verified that financial plan assumptions were aligned with strategic objectives using input from subject matter experts. Partnered with Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania Gas leaders to validate that $12 million in customer service improvements and enhanced safety compliance was built into financial plan and included in regulatory cost recovery. • Partnered with Segment VP’s to implement $15 million in budget reductions by deferring non-critical spend, reviewing capitalization policy, and reprioritizing ongoing strategic initiatives.