Job Title: Lead Financial Analyst (Contract) Location: Columbus, OH (Hybrid – Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday Onsite; Remote candidates will also be considered) Duration: August 24, 2026 – February 26, 2027 (6-Month Contract) Rate: $65 - $76/hr Employment Type: W-2 Contract Work Authorization: Must be authorized to work in the United States now and in the future without the need for employment-based visa sponsorship. Sponsorship is not available for this position, including H-1B, F-1/OPT, CPT, TN, or other employment-based visa sponsorship. Position Overview We are seeking a Lead Financial Analyst to support enterprise financial reporting, regulatory reporting, and SEC filing activities within a dynamic finance organization. This role will serve as a key contributor in preparing and reviewing quarterly and annual financial reports, supporting regulatory initiatives, analyzing financial data, and partnering with cross-functional business units to ensure accurate financial reporting and compliance. The ideal candidate combines strong technical accounting knowledge with financial analysis expertise, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to interpret complex financial information while driving continuous process improvements. Required Qualifications Education • Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, or another related business discipline • CPA preferred Experience • 4+ years of experience in accounting, finance, regulatory reporting, or related financial roles • Experience preparing financial statements and supporting SEC reporting (10-Q and 10-K) • Experience working with financial reporting, forecasting, budgeting, and analytical reporting • Experience utilizing Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel • Experience collaborating across multiple business functions • Regulated utility or energy industry experience preferred Technical Skills • Strong understanding of financial statements, accounting principles, and financial reporting • Knowledge of SEC reporting requirements • Financial analysis and forecasting experience • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities • Ability to interpret accounting guidance and reporting requirements • Experience preparing management reports and executive-level financial analyses • Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and other financial reporting tools Professional Skills • Excellent written and verbal communication skills • Strong attention to detail and organizational abilities • Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines • Strong business partnership and relationship-building skills • Continuous improvement mindset with strong process optimization capabilities Preferred Qualifications • CPA designation • Experience in regulated utilities or the energy industry • Experience supporting regulatory filings and rate case activities • Experience with SEC reporting (10-Q and 10-K) • Knowledge of regulatory finance and financial statement impacts on utility operations • Experience supporting enterprise financial planning and analysis initiatives Key Responsibilities Financial Reporting • Support the preparation, review, and filing of SEC Form 10-Q and Form 10-K reports • Compile, organize, validate, and analyze financial information for internal and external reporting • Prepare financial analyses using historical, forecasted, and pro forma financial data • Assist with implementation of new accounting and financial reporting requirements Financial Analysis • Analyze financial performance, trends, and key business metrics • Develop reports and presentations for executive leadership and business partners • Evaluate financial data from multiple sources to identify issues, trends, and opportunities • Support strategic decision-making through detailed financial analysis Regulatory Reporting • Support regulatory initiatives by preparing financial schedules, pro forma calculations, testimony support, and data requests • Assist with analysis of regulatory filings and financial impacts • Understand how financial reporting influences customer rates and company earnings • Collaborate with regulatory and finance teams on reporting requirements Business Partnership • Partner with finance, accounting, regulatory, and business operations teams • Build strong working relationships across departments to support financial objectives • Provide financial guidance and reporting support to internal stakeholders • Assist leadership in evaluating financial opportunities and business decisions Continuous Improvement • Identify opportunities to improve financial reporting processes and workflows • Recommend and implement process improvements that enhance efficiency and reporting quality • Maintain thorough documentation supporting financial analyses and reporting activities • Ensure workpapers and reporting documentation are complete, accurate, and audit-ready Success in This Role Successful candidates will demonstrate the ability to: • Deliver accurate and timely SEC and financial reporting • Analyze complex financial information and provide meaningful business insights • Support regulatory reporting initiatives with accuracy and professionalism • Build strong relationships with finance and business stakeholders • Improve reporting processes through continuous process improvement initiatives • Maintain high standards of quality, accuracy, and financial integrity