GAYLA WEST
*******@*****.***
OVERVIEW
An accomplished professional with twenty-five years of increasingly responsible experience in Accounts Payable. 15+ plus years of experience managing the activity of specialists within a medium to large Accounts Payable department responsible for auditing and processing up to 5,000 plus invoices per month. Experienced at increasing staff efficiency, reducing costs and strengthening internal controls through process improvements and system enhancements. Highly creative and recognized as a results-oriented and solution-focused individual. Implemented and assisted with creation of electronic workflows and approvals of invoices
CORE ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Implemented and assisted with creation of electronic workflows and approvals of invoices
Implemented two Accounting systems (JDEdwards and MS Dynamics (Axapta)
Implemented process of scanning all check and backup to avoid delays during audits
Created Accounts Payable policy and procedures
Created Accounts Payable Matrix guideline document
Maintain Internal SOX audit of 100% passing
Low employee turn-over for the Accounts Payable department
EXPERIENCE
Manager, Accounts Payable
ConvergeOne, Inc., Plano, TX (formerly Arrow Systems Integration Inc, a Subsidiary of Arrow Electronics Inc.)
Business Communications provider specializing in unified communications and voice and data technologies with 4,000+ customers and 2,000+ vendors
Manage, mentor, train, and support three-eight member team
Hire, mentor, train, motivate, develop, evaluate, and discipline Accounts Payable staff to ensure and enhance performance, development individually and as a team
Develop and Maintain trusting relationships with business senior leaders
Implement systems and processes to improve efficiency
Review processes for efficiencies and ensure all processes are abiding by internal controls
Develop and maintain relationships with branch leadership teams and other departments
Continue proficiency, productivity, and morale with staff reduction
Coordinate staff meetings and training related to positions, processes, and process changes
Manage various accounting functions including accounts payable, accounts receivable, as well as associated analysis and reporting
Ensure processes are in compliance with company policies and accounting policies
Perform monthly adjustments, journal entries and reconciliations for accounts payable
Embrace process improvement mindset by successfully streamlining accounts payable activities and adjustments to provide effective and efficient solutions for the company
Demonstrate analytical, methodical and resourceful approach in problem solving work atmosphere
Provide weekly cash payables forecast
Perform cash reconciliation and/or provide assistance to staff accountant or Controller
Direct Accounts Payable operations, process, and strategies as a shared services operation
Manage all activities in the Accounts Payable function
Create, document, and enforce policies and procedures for Accounts Payable
Ensure timely approval and payment of invoices and travel reimbursements
Manage payables and vendors when limited funds are available
Manage vendor relations to maintain positive relationships with top, high volume and other vendors
Work closely with project managers, procurement, and managers to resolve invoice issues
Provide project manager analysis of cost against jobs
Verify and approves all invoice batches for accuracy prior to issuance of payment
Verify and approve checks for proper backup and information prior to release
Involved in day-to-day Accounts Payable activities, if needed
Ensure vendor invoices are processed timely
Manage difficult vendor invoice issues and matters not resolved within appropriate time-frame
Ensure Accounts Payable is completed for month end processes
Manage master vendor list
Manage 1099 submission-1099 processing and required filings with the federal and state agencies
Manage outstanding checks to cooperate with Escheatment filings
Transmit positive pay file to bank to monitor checks paid on account
Monitor positive pay bank exception reports
Create monthly Accounts Payable Metrics
Create Accounts Payable approval matrix to ensure only valid and authorized payables are recorded and paid
Produce periodic and monthly reports
Process invoice and travel accruals for month end
Perform Financial Close responsibilities related to Accounts Payable
Record GL entries and Reconcile all balance sheet accounts for Accounts Payable
Assist with accounting month and year end
Develop, implement, and maintain systems, procedures and policies, including accounts payable functions to ensure adherence to SOX controls
Maintain internal SOX audit of 100% passing
Maintain SOX controls for Accounts Payable Department
Support internal and external audit processes and direct the documentation of procedures to comply with SOX requirements for Accounts Payable
Train employees on internal SOX controls to perform audits on Inventory and Accounts Payable
Perform SOX audit for internal departments - accounts receivable and financial processes
Lead and take on non-routine special projects including reporting and analysis for internal departments, technology enhancements, and system upgrades
Examine trends in the existing data for opportunities for improvement and efficiency in the work flow of the department
Work with IT to Implement new internal ticketing system for Accounts Payable invoices
Answer and resolve AP inquiries in a timely manner received from other departments and vendors
Assist with streamlining processes and maintaining various systems to improve the workflow and reporting of the department
SKILLS
Knowledgeable of generally accepted accounting principles
Effectively manage staff and departmental projects
Knowledgeable of JE Edwards, MS Dynamics (Axapta), Great Plains, QuickBooks
Knowledgeable of 1099 regulations
Knowledge of Microsoft Office Products
Implementing and documenting procedures and internal controls
Strong time-management skills with the ability to handle multiple tasks
Excellent analytical abilities to clinch key points from complicated details
Staff Development and Team Building
Strong organizational, analytical, and problem solving
Training professionals at all levels of an organization
Self-motivated, proactive, detail-oriented, and a team player
Time management and time critical prioritization skills
Advanced Excel and Work Skills
EDUCATION
Bachelors Degree: In the plans
Associate of Science Degree: Accounting
Graduated 2017