Portfolio Analyst (Data) - Commercial Operations (BHM)

About the role

The Structuring and Analysis department supports Commercial Operations, Southern Wholesale Energy (SWE) and operating companies by providing solutions to complex problems through data visualization and advanced analytics. This role leverages analytics, data visualization, automation, and modern data technologies to help Commercial Operations improve decision-making, optimize performance, and create business value. The analyst serves as a trusted partner to customer teams, translating business needs into actionable insights, reports, dashboards, data models, and analytical solutions.

This position provides unique exposure to 24/7 power generation fleet and energy trading operations, offering opportunities to deepen business acumen and understand the drivers of operational and commercial performance during a period of high load growth. The successful candidate will proactively engage with the business to understand operational challenges and opportunities, transforming business requirements into data-driven solutions and delivering actionable insights to stakeholders and leadership.

Responsibilities

• Perform robust analyses for internal customer teams that ensure generation system reliability while minimizing costs and maximizing return on assets.
• Leverage data, Power BI reporting, PI Vision, and data visualization to inform operations strategy and decision-making.
• Create, maintain, enhance, and optimize Power BI reports, dashboards, datasets, and analytical tools.
• Ensure datasets, semantic models, and data pipelines execute successfully and remain available for consumption.
• Translate customer feedback and business needs into actionable analytics, reporting, data modeling, and business requirements.
• Work closely with Technology Operations to design, develop, test, and implement solutions that align with technology standards.
• Support data cataloging, business glossary, metadata, and governed metrics efforts to improve data discoverability, consistency, and trust.
• Innovate within an on-premises and cloud (Azure Databricks) environment to modernize analytics capabilities while supporting current business operations.
• Perform monthly and annual reporting for executives and customer teams.
• Provide accurate forecasts and analytical insights that lead to a competitive advantage in the marketplace.
• Evaluate operational and market data to identify opportunities for optimization and incremental value creation.
• Perform ad hoc analysis and special projects.

Requirements

• A degree in an analytical field is required (e.g., finance, economics, mathematics, statistics, computer science, engineering).
• An advanced degree in a related field or an MBA is highly desirable.

Skills

• Experience in data analytics, business intelligence, reporting, data management, or a related analytical field.
• Proficiency creating, enhancing, optimizing, and supporting data visualization reports and dashboards.
• Proficiency with programming languages such as Python, R, SQL, or DAX.
• Experience with data tools and platforms like SQL Server, VS Code, GitHub, Databricks, virtual machines, containers, Power Automate.
• Proficiency with data visualization tools such as Power BI, Power Query, PI Vision.
• Experience using AI agents responsibly and understanding their strengths/weaknesses.
• Understanding of data quality, governance, integration, and reporting best practices.
• Understanding of semantic modeling, metrics-as-code, and data cataloging.
• Demonstrates Southern Company Values: Safety First, Intentional Inclusion, Act with Integrity, and Superior Performance.
• Team-oriented, adaptable, and proactive approach to solving business challenges.
• Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills with natural curiosity and a desire to learn.
• Comprehensive consulting skills with proven ability to work with and influence others.
• Ability to build productive relationships and work in a fast-paced, competitive environment while handling multiple assignments.
• Ability to translate complex data into actionable business insights and recommendations.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy and quality.
• Effective written, verbal, and presentation communication skills.
• Ability to collaborate across multiple departments and organizational levels.
• Ability to explain technical concepts to business stakeholders in a clear and practical manner.
• Demonstrates initiative, accountability, sound business judgment, and a continuous improvement mindset.

Work Location

This position will be based out of Birmingham, AL. It has a hybrid work schedule with some flexibility. Some relocation assistance may be available if the successful candidate does not already live within a reasonable commute distance.

Benefits

Southern Company invests in the well-being of its employees and their families through a comprehensive total rewards strategy that includes competitive base salary, annual incentive awards for eligible employees, and health, welfare, and retirement benefits designed to support physical, financial, and emotional/social well-being. This position may also be eligible for additional compensation, such as an incentive program. A summary of the benefits offered for this position can be found here.