Forecasting Manager, Centrica

This review provides an overview of the Forecasting Manager position, designed to help prospective candidates understand the opportunity and its alignment with their career aspirations.

The organization is presented as a dynamic and forward-thinking entity, far exceeding the traditional scope of an energy company. With a collective of brands focused on revolutionizing how we power the planet, the company emphasizes its commitment to a greener, fairer future. This mission is driven by a substantial team of 21,000 colleagues dedicated to creating an energy system independent of fossil fuels and fostering positive community change. The overarching message is that working here offers "more purpose, more passion, and more potential," encapsulated by the hashtag #MoreThanACareer. They highlight a comprehensive approach to the energy sector, encompassing making, storing, moving, selling, and maintaining energy.

About the Role and Team:

Within the British Gas Energy division, the focus is on "selling and mending" energy solutions for homes and businesses across the UK for over two centuries. The team is actively contributing to a greener and more energy-efficient UK, moving towards Net Zero. This is achieved through the implementation of advanced technologies such as smart thermostats, heat pumps, solar panels, and EV chargers, which empower customers to reduce their carbon footprint more affordably and conveniently.

The Forecasting Manager role is pivotal in enhancing visibility over debt volumes and projected bad debt charges. This position involves leading the development and continuous improvement of forecast models to ensure financial planning is accurate and adaptable to evolving business conditions. A key responsibility is tracking the performance of significant bad debt initiatives (valued at £112 million) and identifying any deviations from expectations.

This role has emerged due to increased internal and regulatory oversight concerning Business Debt Collection (BDC). With data now dispersed across two billing systems following recent migrations, there is a critical need for a dedicated forecasting specialist to re-establish robust processes and enhance model accuracy. Historically, this function was shared, but this standalone role promises greater consistency and insight.

Beyond core forecasting, the role supports provisioning and month-end processes, acting as a crucial backup and technical support to mitigate operational risks. As regulatory scrutiny, particularly from Ofgem, intensifies, the Forecasting Manager will be the primary contact for BDC-related requests, ensuring timely and compliant responses aligned with company standards.

Key Accountabilities:

• Building and maintaining core forecasting models, including regular GFF (Global Financial Forecast) and reforecasting processes, reflecting actual performance against plan.
• Delivering comprehensive reporting that highlights variances, tracks initiative delivery, and supports strategic financial oversight.
• Developing and nurturing stakeholder relationships across Finance, Legal & Regulatory teams, and Senior Management within the Debt function.
• Participating in discussions, presenting key findings, and representing the team in regulatory engagements.

What They're Looking For:

• A highly numerate individual with strong analytical and financial acumen.
• Demonstrable experience in forecasting and financial planning.
• A solid understanding of accounting principles; CIMA or AAT qualifications (full or part) are advantageous.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including advanced formulas, model building, and reporting tools.
• Experience utilizing Power BI for developing and presenting data-driven insights.
• The ability to present complex data in clear and compelling formats for diverse audiences.
• Familiarity with UKH Credit & Collections processes and data.
• A strong understanding of Centrica's strategic goals and the broader commercial environment.
• Proven ability to lead technical analysis and solve problems using logical and structured approaches.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the capacity to tailor messaging for both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Advantages and Key Considerations for Candidates:

Advantages:

• Purpose-Driven Work: This role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to a significant organizational mission focused on a greener, fairer future and Net Zero targets. It's an attractive prospect for individuals seeking meaning in their professional lives.
• Impactful Role: As a central figure in forecasting and debt management, you will have a direct impact on financial planning and regulatory compliance, particularly in a high-scrutiny area.
• Career Growth and Development: The emphasis on "more potential" and non-negotiable growth suggests a commitment to employee development. The requirement for technical analysis and problem-solving skills will allow you to hone these abilities.
• Technological Exposure: The role involves working with advanced tools like Power BI and smart energy technologies, offering opportunities to enhance your data analytics and tech-savviness.
• Diverse and Inclusive Culture: The company actively promotes a culture where differences are celebrated and belonging is fostered. Their commitment to supporting diverse realities, including a strong Carers Policy and flexibility, is a significant advantage for work-life balance.
• Comprehensive Benefits: The "total rewards" package is designed to offer flexibility and support for financial, physical, and emotional well-being, extending to family support.
• Leading the Energy Transition: Being part of a company at the forefront of the energy transition, with a broad range of energy operations, offers a dynamic and evolving career landscape.

Key Considerations:

• Data Complexity: The mention of data fragmentation across two billing systems indicates a potential challenge requiring strong data reconciliation and modeling skills to navigate and overcome.
• Regulatory Scrutiny: The role involves significant interaction with regulatory bodies like Ofgem. Candidates should be prepared for a high level of accountability and precision in their work.
• Stakeholder Management: Success in this role will depend on strong relationship-building and communication skills to effectively engage with various internal teams and senior management.
• Adaptability: The energy sector is dynamic. Candidates should be comfortable adapting to changing business conditions, evolving regulatory landscapes, and new technologies.
• Travel Requirement: While the location is flexible within the UK, there is a requirement for travel, which should be considered for candidates.

In conclusion, this Forecasting Manager position presents a compelling opportunity for a skilled and motivated finance professional to make a tangible impact within a leading energy organization. It offers a chance to grow, contribute to a vital industry shift, and be part of a supportive and forward-thinking environment.