Financial Modelling & Decision Making

Introduction:

In today’s volatile and data-rich environment, financial modelling has become an indispensable tool for decision-makers across industries. This advanced-level course empowers professionals to build, interpret, and audit robust financial models that support strategic business decisions. Participants will explore how to simulate scenarios, evaluate investment choices, and quantify risks through Excel-based modelling frameworks aligned with global financial standards.

The course emphasizes hands-on modelling techniques, critical thinking, and applying quantitative tools to solve real-world financial challenges.

Objectives:  

Participants in this course will learn to:

•  Construct dynamic and reliable financial models using Excel and industry best practices.
•  Apply modelling techniques to forecast revenues, costs, cash flows, and valuation.
•   Integrate decision-making tools such as scenario analysis, sensitivity analysis, and Monte Carlo simulations.
•  Assess investment opportunities and capital budgeting using NPV, IRR, and Payback.
•   Communicate financial insights clearly to executive and non-technical stakeholders.
•  Identify and mitigate key model risks and audit model logic for integrity and accuracy.

Target Audience:

This course is designed for:

• Finance Managers and Controllers
• Financial Analysts and Business Analysts
• Investment and Corporate Bankers
• Strategy Consultants and CFOs
•  Private Equity and Venture Capital Professionals
• Professionals involved in budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning
•  Engineers or technical managers who work with financial data in projects

Course Outline:

Day 1: Fundamentals of Financial Modelling

·         Key principles of good modelling structure and design

·         Best practices in Excel (naming, auditing, version control)

·         Building dynamic assumptions and input modules

·         Time series modelling and building model timelines

Day 2: Financial Statements Modelling

·         Linking Income Statement, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow Statement

·         Working capital and depreciation modelling

·         Fixed asset schedules and capex planning

·         Handling circular references and iterative calculations

Day 3: Investment Appraisal & Capital Budgeting

·         Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), and Payback Period

·         Project evaluation under certainty and uncertainty

·         Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) and Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC)

·         Scenario-based investment decision models

Day 4: Advanced Decision-Making Techniques

·         Sensitivity and scenario analysis automation

·         Data tables, goal seek, and solver applications

·         Monte Carlo simulation using Excel add-ins (e.g., @Risk or Simul8)

·         Real options and strategic flexibility in financial decisions

Day 5: Model Audit, Presentation & Strategic Use

·         Model stress-testing and error tracing

·         Documentation and controls for audit compliance

·         Visualizing outputs: dashboards and financial storytelling

·         Applying models for M&A, valuation, and board-level decision-making