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Senior Director, FP&A Merchandising and Marketing

Pet Valu
Full-time
On-site
Canada
πŸͺ Trade Marketing

πŸ“Œ Core Information

πŸ”Ή Job Title: Senior Director, FP&A Merchandising and Marketing

πŸ”Ή Company: Pet Valu

πŸ”Ή Location: Markham, Ontario, Canada

πŸ”Ή Job Type: Full-Time

πŸ”Ή Category: Retail, Financial Planning & Analysis

πŸ”Ή Date Posted: April 23, 2025

πŸ”Ή Experience Level: 10+ years

πŸ”Ή Remote Status: On-site

πŸš€ Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

  • Providing strategic and operational financial planning, forecasting, and analysis for Merchandising and Marketing functions
  • Collaborating with business partners to drive results and achieve financial objectives
  • Leading and developing a high-performing FP&A team
  • Improving FP&A processes through analytics, automation, and continuous improvement
  • Ensuring internal controls are in place to mitigate risks around financial information

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of financial expertise and leadership experience, with a focus on driving strategic decision-making and process improvement.

πŸ“‹ Key Responsibilities

βœ… Lead the preparation and analysis of strategic and annual plans, quarterly forecasts, and weekly latest estimates, monthly financial and operating reports including value-added insights for the Merchandising and Marketing functions

βœ… Provide accurate and timely financial recommendations to management for decision-making purposes by analyzing current and past trends of key performance indicators

βœ… Provide financial support for strategic initiatives, business line reviews, new product launches, pricing strategies, and campaign performance

βœ… Work collaboratively with business partners to ensure key initiatives drive results and obtain financial objectives by providing meaningful, proactive financial analysis and identifying risks and opportunities

βœ… Build strategic relationships with key leaders across the organization

βœ… Improve FP&A through analytics, automation, and continuous improvement of processes

βœ… Provide leadership and direction to the team by fostering a high-performance team environment that instills best practices and skills, critical and strategic thinking, and pro-active problem-solving

βœ… Ensure that internal controls to mitigate risks around financial information are in place and operating effectively

ASSUMPTION: This role involves a mix of strategic planning, analytical work, and team leadership, requiring a strong financial background and excellent communication skills.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Professional Accounting Designation Preferred (CPA, CFA)

Experience: 10+ years of progressive experience in FP&A, including 7+ years leading a team

Required Skills:

  • Strong leadership and management capabilities
  • Track record of continuous operational process improvement and implementation
  • Experience working with multiple senior executives providing strong financial expertise
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
  • Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle)

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience in the retail industry
  • Bilingual (English/French)

ASSUMPTION: Candidates should have a strong financial background, proven leadership experience, and a track record of driving process improvement and strategic decision-making.

πŸ’° Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry standards for a Senior Director role in the retail sector in Canada, the estimated salary range is CAD 150,000 - CAD 200,000 per year.

Benefits:

  • Competitive benefits package
  • Employee discount on Pet Valu products
  • Opportunities for professional development and growth

Working Hours: Full-time, typically Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. May require occasional evenings or weekends to meet deadlines or attend events.

ASSUMPTION: The salary range is an estimate based on market research and may vary depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications. Benefits and working hours are subject to Pet Valu's policies and may be subject to change.

πŸ“Œ Applicant Insights

πŸ” Company Context

Industry: Pet Valu is Canada's largest pet retailer, offering a wide range of pet supplies, food, and services. The pet industry is a growing market, with a focus on pet health, wellness, and enrichment.

Company Size: Pet Valu has 800+ neighborhood stores across Canada and employs over 2,400 people. As a large organization, Pet Valu offers opportunities for career growth and development.

Founded: Pet Valu was founded in 1976 and has since grown to become a leading pet retailer in Canada.

Company Description:

  • Pet Valu is dedicated to strengthening the bond between devoted pet lovers and their pets
  • The company offers knowledgeable customer care and premium products to support every pet's journey
  • Pet Valu is committed to fostering an open, equitable, and inclusive workplace culture

Company Specialties:

  • Pet Supplies
  • Pet Knowledge
  • Pet Food
  • Pet Nutrition
  • Pet Health
  • Grooming
  • Dog Wash
  • Pet Care

Company Website: http://www.petvalu.ca/careers

ASSUMPTION: Pet Valu's large store network and commitment to pet care make it an attractive employer for pet enthusiasts and retail professionals alike.

πŸ“Š Role Analysis

Career Level: Senior Director roles typically report directly to the Vice President or CFO and oversee a team of financial analysts and managers. This role is part of the senior leadership team within the FP&A department.

Reporting Structure: This role reports to the Vice President, Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) and oversees a team of FP&A professionals.

Work Arrangement: This is an on-site role, with the possibility of occasional remote work for meetings or events. The role requires a presence in the Markham, Ontario office.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Advancement to a Vice President or CFO role within the organization
  • Expansion of responsibilities to include additional business units or functions
  • Opportunities to lead strategic initiatives or projects

ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant growth potential for the right candidate, with opportunities to advance within the organization and take on additional responsibilities.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Pet Valu's corporate office is a modern, state-of-the-art facility with collaborative workspaces and amenities.

Office Location(s): 130 Royal Crest Court, Markham, ON L3R 0A1, Canada

Geographic Context:

  • Markham is a city in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) with a population of approximately 350,000 people
  • The city offers a mix of urban and suburban living, with easy access to downtown Toronto
  • Markham has a diverse and multicultural population, with a strong Asian community

Work Schedule: The standard workweek is Monday to Friday, with core hours from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The role may require occasional evenings or weekends to meet deadlines or attend events.

ASSUMPTION: The Markham office provides a modern and collaborative work environment, with easy access to amenities and public transportation.

πŸ’Ό Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

  • Online application and resume screening
  • Phone or video screen with the HR department
  • In-person or video interview with the hiring manager and/or team members
  • Final interview with the Vice President, FP&A
  • Background check and reference check

Key Assessment Areas:

  • Financial acumen and analytical skills
  • Leadership and management capabilities
  • Communication and interpersonal skills
  • Problem-solving and critical thinking
  • Cultural fit and alignment with Pet Valu's values

Application Tips:

  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
  • Demonstrate your financial expertise and leadership capabilities through specific examples and achievements
  • Showcase your understanding of the pet industry and Pet Valu's business
  • Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer about the role, team, or company

ATS Keywords: Financial Planning, Analysis, Leadership, Management, Operational Process Improvement, Financial Expertise, Business Acumen, Interpersonal Skills, Problem Solving, Drive For Results, Strategic Thinking, Data Analysis, Risk Management, Communication, Collaboration, Decision Making

ASSUMPTION: Pet Valu's recruitment process is designed to assess candidates' financial expertise, leadership capabilities, and cultural fit. Successful candidates will demonstrate a strong track record in FP&A and a passion for the pet industry.

πŸ› οΈ Tools & Technologies

  • Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
  • ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle)
  • Financial planning and analysis software (e.g., Anaplan, Hyperion)
  • Data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)

ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and familiar with ERP systems. Experience with financial planning and analysis software and data visualization tools is an asset.

πŸ‘” Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

  • Love Lives Hereβ„’
  • Customer Obsessed
  • One Team, One Dream
  • Integrity Always
  • Adapt and Grow

Work Style:

  • Collaborative and team-oriented
  • Results-driven and focused on achieving objectives
  • Adaptable and open to change
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Self-Assessment Questions:

  • How do you demonstrate Pet Valu's value of 'Love Lives Hereβ„’' in your daily work?
  • Can you provide an example of a time when you had to adapt to a significant change in your role or organization?
  • How do you approach building and maintaining strong relationships with your team members and business partners?

ASSUMPTION: Pet Valu's company culture is centered around its core values, with an emphasis on customer obsession, teamwork, and integrity. Successful candidates will demonstrate a strong fit with these values and be able to thrive in a collaborative and results-driven environment.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

  • Managing a team through organizational changes or growth
  • Balancing strategic planning and day-to-day operational demands
  • Working with multiple stakeholders and business partners to drive results
  • Keeping up with industry trends and regulatory changes

ASSUMPTION: This role presents unique challenges and opportunities for growth, requiring strong leadership, communication, and adaptability skills.

πŸ“ˆ Similar Roles Comparison

  • Unlike other senior director roles, this position focuses specifically on the Merchandising and Marketing functions within the retail sector
  • This role requires a strong understanding of the pet industry and Pet Valu's business, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with business partners
  • Career progression in this role could lead to a Vice President or CFO position within the organization, with the opportunity to oversee additional business units or functions

ASSUMPTION: This role is unique within Pet Valu and the broader retail sector, offering a specialized focus on the Merchandising and Marketing functions and the opportunity for career growth and development.

πŸ“ Sample Projects

  • Developing and implementing a new financial planning and analysis process to improve accuracy and efficiency
  • Conducting a comprehensive review of the Merchandising and Marketing functions to identify opportunities for cost savings and revenue growth
  • Leading a team to prepare and present the annual budget and quarterly forecasts to senior leadership

ASSUMPTION: These sample projects reflect the strategic and operational nature of the role, requiring strong analytical skills, leadership, and collaboration with business partners.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

  • Can you describe the team structure and dynamics within the FP&A department?
  • How does this role support the overall strategic goals of the organization, and how will my work contribute to achieving them?
  • What are the key priorities for this role in the first 90 days?
  • How does Pet Valu support the growth and development of its employees?
  • What is the company's approach to work-life balance, and how is it supported within the FP&A department?

ASSUMPTION: These interview questions are designed to provide insight into the role, team, and company, helping candidates make an informed decision about their fit and potential for success.

πŸ“Œ Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

  • Submit your application through this link
  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
  • Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer about the role, team, or company
  • Follow up with the hiring manager within one week of submitting your application to express your interest and reiterate your qualifications

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.