This 5-day master-level course provides participants with the knowledge and practical skills needed to build robust, flexible, and dynamic financial models using Excel. Participants will move from foundational concepts to advanced techniques for forecasting, valuation, scenario analysis, and decision-making.

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the principles and structure of effective financial models.
• Build integrated financial statements (income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow).
• Apply forecasting techniques and scenario/sensitivity analysis.
• Conduct valuation models using DCF and other methods.
• Audit and stress-test models for reliability and accuracy.
• Present financial models clearly and effectively to stakeholders.

Target Competency Areas:

• Financial Forecasting and Budgeting
• Excel Modeling Proficiency
• Business Valuation Techniques
• Scenario and Sensitivity Analysis
• Strategic Financial Planning
• Decision Support and Data Interpretation
• Risk Assessment through Financial Models

• Financial analysts and planners
• Investment analysts and corporate finance professionals
• Accountants and controllers
• Business analysts and consultants
• Entrepreneurs and business owners
• Anyone involved in business planning, investment decisions, or financial reporting

This course uses a hands-on, practical approach with:

• Step-by-step guided model building in Excel
• Real-world case studies and project work
• Model review and troubleshooting labs
• Group challenges and peer critique
• Interactive quizzes and gamified learning checks
• Templates, toolkits, and reference materials for post-course use

Day 1: Foundations of Financial Modelling

• Introduction to Financial Modelling Best Practices
• Excel Essentials for Modelling (functions, shortcuts, structure)
• Model Design, Layout, and Documentation Standards
• Building Assumption Sheets and Input Design
• Hands-On: Mini Model of a Simple Business

Day 2: Building Integrated Financial Statements

• Linking Income Statement, Balance Sheet, and Cash Flow
• Depreciation, Working Capital, and Debt Schedules
• Circular References and Iterative Calculations
• Dynamic Model Structuring
• Workshop: Building a Full 3-Statement Model

Day 3: Forecasting and Scenario Planning

• Top-Down vs. Bottom-Up Forecasting
• Revenue and Cost Drivers
• Scenario Analysis and Data Tables
• Sensitivity Testing Techniques
• Hands-On: Model Stress Testing with Various Assumptions

Day 4: Business Valuation Models

• Overview of Valuation Methods (DCF, Multiples, NPV, IRR)
• Discounted Cash Flow (DCF) Modelling
• Terminal Value Calculation and WACC
• Valuation Model Presentation Techniques
• Project: Valuation of a Real or Hypothetical Company

Day 5: Review, Audit, and Presentation

• Model Audit and Error Checks
• Stress-Testing and Risk Analysis
• Building Dashboards and Charts for Output
• Group Project Presentation: Complete Model Walkthrough
• Feedback, Certification Exam, and Wrap-Up

A RECTUS attendance certificate will be awarded to all participants who complete at least 80% of the total course duration.