Business Analyst

Western Cape
Contract
Full-time

8 days ago

The Business/Data Analyst will review existing data structures, consolidate information from Excel-based systems, and design insights-driven reporting. This individual will advise on the best-fit system to migrate data into, ensuring accurate visibility of sales, margins, service performance, and operational efficiency across multiple sites. The Business Analyst will be responsible for analyzing and interpreting data from Xero (accounting software) and DEAR Inventory (inventory management system) to provide insights into cost structures, profit margins, and process optimization. A key focus will be on working with the Bill of Materials (BOM) to determine cost per can under different scenarios, highlighting areas for improved efficiency and profitability. As a strategic thinker, this role will report directly to the CEO/MD, providing high-level analysis and recommendations. The consultant will review progress post-implementation to ensure initiatives remain on track and that systems are being optimized. A key part of the role will be identifying process-driven time and cost-cutting opportunities and reducing waste to protect profitability.Key Responsibilities:
● Extract, reconcile, and analyse financial, inventory, and sales data from Xero, DEAR Inventory, and other systems to ensure accurate reporting.
● Work with the Bill of Materials (BOM) to calculate cost per unit across production scenarios and support accurate costing and forecasting.
● Develop, maintain, and present dashboards/reports highlighting key metrics such as profit margins, cost breakdowns, process efficiencies, sales performance, and service effectiveness.
● Identify data discrepancies or anomalies, troubleshoot proactively, and ensure data accuracy and integrity.
● Conduct scenario analyses, build financial models, and provide insights to support decision-making, strategic planning, and board reviews.
● Analyse sales data, customer behaviour, product/service performance, and margins across locations to identify growth opportunities and areas for optimisation.
● Recommend and implement strategies for pricing, promotions, bundling, and new revenue streams to enhance profitability and customer offering.
● Collaborate with finance, operations, production, warehouse, sales, and front-line teams to align goals, streamline processes, and improve cross-functional performance.
● Provide actionable recommendations for process optimisation, waste reduction, and cost efficiencies across departments.
● Research, evaluate, and recommend data systems beyond Excel to improve reporting capabilities.
● Lead and evaluate data-driven marketing campaigns, ensuring initiatives deliver ROI and align with business objectives.
● Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and customer behaviours to inform business strategies.
● Review and track initiatives post-implementation to confirm effectiveness and alignment with business goals.
● Important focus:

Expanding use of Dear inventory
Defining and calculating inputs to BOM
Implementation of BOM on Dear
Assistance with embedding new processes.

Requirements
Education & Experience:
● Bachelor’s degree in Data Analytics, Business (BCom), Engineering (BEng), or similar field.
● 5 years’ experience in a business/data analyst role.
● Experience in FMCG, retail, or service-based industries is advantageous.
● Strong experience with Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, data modelling); proficiency in other analysis/reporting tools is highly desirable.Skills & Competencies:
● Strategic thinker with commercial acumen and problem-solving ability.
● Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
● Proficiency in working with Xero and DEAR Inventory (or similar systems).
● Commercially minded with a clear understanding of profitability and cost drivers.
● Excellent communication, reporting, and presentation skills (written & verbal).
● Proven ability to translate complex data into clear, actionable insights.
● Highly detail-oriented with a methodical and structured approach.
● Strong collaboration skills, able to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
● Fluent in English with strong business writing skills.
● Quick learner, able to grasp concepts rapidly and conceptualise solutions.

Optential Consulting

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