Melissa A Paradiso
Denver, CO 80202
Email: ********.**@*****.***
Summary of qualifications
SUCCESSFUL SENIOR FINANCIAL MANAGER WITH 5 YEARS PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
LEADING ALL ASPECTS OF ACCOUNTING, BUDGETING, FORECASTING, AND FINANCIAL
ANALYST/REPORTING IN THE INDUSTRIES OF GOVERNMENT AND NON-PROFIT
ACCOUNTING. DEMONSTRATED EXPERTISE LEADING CROSS-FUNCTIONAL ACCOUNTING
TEAMS AND INTERDEPARTMENTAL PROJECTS TO IMPLEMENT FINANCIAL INFORMATION
SYSTEMS AND AUTOMATE MANUAL PROCESSES FOR ENHANCED EFFICIENCY. VERSED IN
AUDITS, REGULATORY COMPLIANCE, AND LARGE CONTRACT MANAGEMENT. CANDIDATE FOR
CPA LICENSURE, TO BE COMPLETED IN EARLY 2012.
EXPERIENCE
FINANCE DIRECTOR, NATIONAL MS SOCIETY COLORADO-WYOMING CHAPTER DENVER, CO -
SEPTEMBER 2009-PRESENT
Manages finance staff, vendors, and other Chapter staff to ensure smooth
day-to-day operations of the finance department including: accounting,
reporting, billing, credit card processing, collections, cash management,
budgeting, forecasting, payroll, A/P, A/R, and human resources for 5 office
locations. Conducts the monthly close and compiles and analyzes reports to
management. Analyzes complex financial data and extracts and defines
relevant information; interprets data for the purpose of determining past
financial performance and/or to project a financial probability. Identifies
financial discrepancies and noted changes and presents appropriate
information and, where appropriate, provide a recommended resolution to
management. Developed supporting policies, procedures, and systems to
ensure efficient operation of the financial management of the Chapter.
Determines whether gifts are to be restricted permanently, temporarily or
unrestricted and provides supporting documentation. Directs the purchasing
card program including staff training and compliance.
Financial & Operational Highlights
. Implemented new payroll system and responsible for the training of all
staff on new payroll system
. Implemented new purchase card system and responsible for the training of
staff on integrated purchase card system.
. Develops detailed allocation method for all expenditures tied to programs
and events.
. Manage the organization and preparation of financial and operational
audits.
Budget/Project Accountant, State of Colorado, Auraria Campus, Denver CO-
October 2007-August 2009
Lead and managed the annual budget process. Developed and manages the
maintenance of budget monitoring and evaluation systems. Analyzed budget
patterns and projects expenditures based on statistical data. Conferred
with appropriate internal and external administrative offices to ensure
that required procedures are followed. Provided instruction and answers
questions relating to budget procedures and serves as liaison between
departments. Identified budget issues, provided alternative solutions, and
resolved problems. Monitored, identified, and communicated over
expenditures to management and administrative staff. Offered
recommendations to resolve funding shortfalls. Managed the financial
aspects of campus capital construction projects. Managed and maintained
agency staffing pattern.
Financial & Operational Highlights
. Instrumental role in the implementation of new accounting procedures for
capital construction loans mandated by the State of Colorado
. Developed agency budget under the constrictions of a state wide hiring
freeze and a reduced budget while still maintain agency profitability.
Accountant, Garren, Ross, & DeNardo, Pueblo CO-December 2006-September 2007
Provided full spectrum of accounting functions, including audit testing,
and preparation of tax returns for individuals as well as businesses. Also
preformed monthly bookkeeping functions for various companies.
Financial & Operational Highlights
. Assisted in multiple non-profit audits, including audit prep, fieldwork
and final write-up.
Aveda Color Educator/Manager, Paradise Day Spa, Pueblo, CO-April 2002-
February 2005
Provided specialized cosmetic services to clients including, haircuts,
color services, manicures, pedicures, and facials. Maintained an
exceptional level of customer service and built lasting relationships with
clients. Provided educational support to all salon staff members.
Operational Highlights
. Developed stylist training program
Nail Technician/Manager, Maison La Belle, Pueblo, CO-September 2000-
February 2001
Provided specialized esthetic services for clients including cosmetic
applications as well as manicure and pedicure services. Consistently met
or exceeded sales expectations. Maintained a high level of customer
satisfaction.
Operational Highlights
. Developed inventory tracking system
Merchantainment Cast Member, Walt Disney World, Orlando, FL-February 2000-
May 2000
Participated in four-month internship.
Preserved the magical experience by maintaining a high level of guest
satisfaction. Assisted in storewide functions, including sales counter and
cashiering activities, inventory control, stocking, merchandise display,
loss prevention and problem resolution.
Operational Highlights
. One of only thirteen students chosen from Colorado State University-
Pueblo to participate in internship.
Telemarketing Agent, Convergy's Corporation, Pueblo, CO-December 1997--
February 2000
Consistently met or exceeded sales expectations. Built and maintained
high level of customer satisfaction. Performed both inbound and outbound
sales functions.
Operational Highlights
. Chosen as part of the initial outbound sales team.
education
COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY-PUEBLO, PUEBLO, CO, MASTER OF BUSINESS
ADMINISTRATION, DEGREE PLUS PROGRAM, MAY 2008
Colorado State University-Pueblo, Pueblo, CO, Bachelor of Business
Administration, Accounting, Degree Plus Program, May 2008
Colorado State University-Pueblo, Pueblo, CO,Bachelor of Business
Administration, Management/Marketing, December 2004