LESLIE JOHN WEISS

Chicago, IL ad4i52@r.postjobfree.com 708-***-****

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

With over two decades of experience in various leadership capacities within financial operations, I have consistently delivered exceptional results and earned recognition for my managerial prowess. My career journey has equipped me with a comprehensive skill set spanning business planning, financial controls, and regulatory compliance. I have successfully driven operational efficiencies through strategic initiatives and spearheaded cost-saving measures that have positively impacted organizational performance. My proficiency in economic analysis extends to in-depth evaluations of profit and loss statements, balance sheets, and cash flow reports. Additionally, I possess a proven track record in conducting audits, cash management, purchase orders, and implementing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems to streamline processes and enhance financial transparency. Recognized for my adeptness in team-building and fostering a customer-centric approach, I have led innovative initiatives that have optimized internal operations and significantly contributed to the bottom line. My commitment to excellence is evident in my ability to orchestrate and supervise complex projects, such as the cleanup initiative addressing a 2-year backlog of Trade Accounts Receivable (AR) invoices, resulting in a remarkable 90% reduction in outstanding payments. Furthermore, my leadership has been instrumental in pioneering review processes for numerous sales contracts and implementing advanced software systems like Great Plains Dynamics, which led to substantial cost reductions and operational enhancements. My dedication to driving continuous improvement is underscored by my role in reconciling inter-company accounts and introducing AP check-writing software to mitigate the risk of financial fraud. As I navigate the dynamic landscape of financial management, I remain committed to leveraging my expertise to drive organizational success and uphold the highest financial integrity and compliance standards. Committed to continuous improvement and professional development, currently pursuing QuickBooks ProAdvisor certification to further enhance nine years of expertise.

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

Innovative Leadership Regulatory/Compliance Accounting Operational Enhancement Consolidation Rationalization Financial Analysis/Planning Employee Relations Strategic Planning Liaison Communication Executive Presentations Budget Development QuickBooks Staff Training & Development Leadership & Management Initiative Purchase Orders Cash Management Teamwork Reimbursement Regulations Reconciliations Cash Deposits Resolution Accounts Payable Accounts Receivable Microsoft Excel Microsoft Outlook Organization Month-End Closing Year-End Closing Work Papers Journal Entries Monthly Accounting Close Account Reconciliation Pivot Tables Vlookup Recording Staff Supervision Scheduling General Ledger Depreciation Fixed Assets Verbal Communication Time Management Collaboration Communication Skills

CAREER ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Orchestrated and supervised an extensive cleanup initiative to address a 2-year backlog of Trade AR invoices, culminating in a remarkable 90% reduction in outstanding payments.

Pioneered the review processes for over 200 sales contracts and devised a comprehensive database to enhance the precision of sales activity records, facilitate future sales, and enable more accurate revenue forecasting analysis.

Acquired proficiency in all Navision financial software modules and devised a streamlined process to integrate bank reconciliations, leading to enhanced property utilization within six months. Over 12 sister companies adopted this innovative approach.

Took charge of reconciling inter-company accounts left unresolved for 12 months, ensuring compliance with external auditor recommendations.

Introduced advanced software systems such as Great Plains Dynamics, resulting in streamlined processes and a $300k reduction in annual overhead costs. Additionally, redesigned annual audit preparation processes, leading to consecutive annual savings of $80k. The Board of Directors and auditors commended these achievements.

Engineered AP check writing software leveraging advanced Lotus 1-2-3 macros and approximately 800 lines of code, effectively mitigating the risk of certain types of financial fraud.

WORK EXPERIENCE

INDEPENDENCE PLUS, INC. – OAK BROOK, IL

Director of Finance Controller Assistant Treasurer Corporate Officer 2005 – 03/2024

Held comprehensive oversight of all accounting and financial management functions, ensuring the accurate and timely preparation of monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements. Maintained strict compliance with GAAP regulatory standards across all financial documentation. Compiled quarterly Medicare Credit Balance Reports and facilitated financial data gathering for annual Medicare Cost Reporting. Managed the processing of annual audit documentation for financial statements and income tax preparation. Served as the Company Administrator for the 401k Plan, reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer.

Highlights:

Conducted extensive research to identify a new business software suite and financial reporting solution. Integrating two separate software suites into a single application increased efficiency and streamlined financial processes.

Collaborated with an external IT firm to upgrade Independence's servers and migrate its telephone system to a VoIP network, enhancing overall operational capabilities.

OTHER POSITIONS HELD

Controller Cuisine Innovations – Chicago, IL 2004 – 2005

Controller Spectra Marketing, Inc. – Chicago, IL 2001 - 2004

Controller National Power Rodding – Chicago, IL 2001 - 2004

Assistant Treasurer Corporate Officer The Sales Force Companies – Wood Dale, IL 1984 - 2000

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science – Accounting Conferred University of Illinois at Chicago- Chicago, IL

Completed coursework equivalent to five courses in pursuit of an M.B.A. University of Illinois at Chicago- Chicago, IL

CERTIFICATION

Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Currently preparing to obtain QuickBooks ProAdvisor certification.

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