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 and leads transformation.
Business partner orientation with a collaborative, positive approach.
Resilient and adaptable under pressure in a fast-paced and highly regulated business environment.
Commitment to continuous professional development—self and team.

Pay Information

Full-Time Salary Range: $210,000.00 to $250,000.00

The salary range listed is based on external market data. Offers are based on factors, such as but not limited to, the candidate’s experience, education, training, key skills/critical skills, security clearances, and prevailing market and business conditions.