Heather Gilbert
**** ****** **** ******, ******** Springs, Colorado 80922
*******@***.*** 719-***-****
Accomplished Controller with Extensive Corporate Experience
Accomplished Controller with 25+ years of comprehensive experience in corporate finance and accounting. Demonstrated expertise in driving process improvements, optimizing systems, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Specialized in forensic accounting methods, recognized with the Dean's Award for Forensic Accounting. Proven track record of identifying and rectifying accounting system failures, implementing new controls, and collaborating effectively with IT. Proficient in financial analysis, payroll management, and reconciliations across diverse industries. Possess a Master's degree in Accounting and Financial Management and certifications including CompTIA A+, MCP, and QuickBooks Certified Online Pro Advisor. Skilled in utilizing various accounting software and adept at managing complex transitions and fostering productive relationships.
Skill Areas: w Financial Analysis w Forensic Accounting w Process Optimization w Financial Statements w Cash Management w Tax Preparation w Fixed Assets Management w Payroll Administration w Reconciliationw General Ledger Maintenance w Audit/Internal Controls w HR Management w Month-End Close Processes w Conflict Resolution
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Diana Bress & CO., Colorado Springs, CO (November 2020 – Present)
Accountant
Collaborated closely with owner and management to enhance business operations and achieve set goals.
Oversaw all accounting operations, encompassing financial statements, journal entries, and bank reconciliations.
Implemented QuickBooks Online (QBO) from initiation, streamlining accounting processes.
Ensured team efficiency and adherence to deadlines through regular coordination and monitoring.
Provided administrative support by answering phones and scheduling appointments as required.
Successfully completed ad hoc projects assigned by the owner, demonstrating flexibility and versatility.
Freedom Towing & Recovery, Inc., Colorado Springs, CO (February 2021 – January 2024)
Accounts Receivable Accountant
Oversaw accounts receivable and dispatching operations for a towing company with five trucks.
Managed a team of 2 dispatchers and coordinated with drivers to ensure smooth operations.
Achieved a collection rate of over 75% for past-due invoices, enhancing cash flow.
Utilized Towbook dispatching software to optimize towing activities and streamline processes.
Prepared monthly, quarterly, and annual forecasting reports to track financial performance.
Maintained organized records of invoices, bills, and deposits to facilitate accurate accounting.
Ensured compliance with invoicing and collection regulations to uphold legal standards.
Auto, Inc. - Colorado Springs, CO (May 2017 - March 2021)
Controller
Directed consolidation of 5 locations into one, overseeing accounting for 11 bank accounts and 2 credit cards.
Converted accounting systems from Peach Tree to QuickBooks Online, enhancing efficiency.
Provided support to the owner, liaising with attorneys and external CPAs.
Streamlined fixed assets by 75% during the consolidation process.
Designed and prepared all company documents as per specific requests.
Managed bi-weekly and semi-monthly payroll processing and tax filings.
Coordinated vehicle registrations, insurance verification, and VIN matching.
Collaborated closely with bank executives on company operations and sales.
Supervised dispatch department of 5 dispatchers, ensuring smooth operations.
Implemented process improvements leading to 5% reduction in write-offs.
Maintained accounts payable accurately and fostered vendor relationships.
Managed all aspects of damage claims and coordinated repairs with vendors.
Handled new driver setup and managed phone line assignments.
Interacted with insurance companies to run MVR reports for driver qualification.
Monitored and managed office supplies inventory.
Custom Creations RV Repair, La Mirada, California (June 2005 - December 2017)
Accountant (Remote Position)
Directed accounting operations, including financial statement analysis, journal entries, and bank reconciliations, adhering to GAAP standards.
Transitioned manual accounting to QuickBooks, enhancing accuracy and cash flow tracking.
Generated estimates for RV repairs using Duncan Systems, facilitating cost-effective decision-making.
Optimized payroll, invoicing, and bookkeeping processes, improving efficiency.
Managed weekly payroll for 50 employees and subcontractors, ensuring timely and accurate payments.
Prepared payroll returns, year-end tax filings, W2s, and 1099s efficiently.
Handled personal tax returns for the owner and family members.
Completed ad hoc projects for the owner and family, meeting deadlines and delivering high-quality outcomes.
PRIOR EMPLOYMENT DETAILS
Payroll Tax Management, Inc., Santa Ana, California Accountant June 2012 - August 2012
Randstad U.S., Englewood, Colorado Accounts Payable (Temp) October 2012 - December 2012
Medical Resource Network, Inc., Lakewood, CA Controller October 2002 - September 2006
International Consortium of Technology Professionals Controller April 2000 - October 2002
Govero Cabinets, Norwalk, California Assistant Controller June 1996 - April 2000
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & CREDENTIALS
Education:
Master of Accounting and Financial Management, Forensic Accounting
Keller Graduate School of Management, DeVry University, Colorado Springs, Colorado — 2013
Bachelor of Science, Accounting
DeVry Institute of Technology, Pomona, California
Dean’s Award for Forensic Accounting
Certifications:
Currently studying the Becker CPA Review - 2021
CompTIA A+
Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP)
QuickBooks Certified Online Pro Advisor 2017
Completed MCSE (Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer) Coursework
Completed CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) Coursework
Technical Skills: Proficient in QuickBooks (Pro Advisor, Online, Premier, Enterprise), Peachtree, Microsoft Office Suite, TowBooks, Beacon Software, AccPac Easy, SBT Accounts Receivable, Lacerte, CPAid, One-Write Plus 5.0, Time and Billing Software, Act! 2, 2000, Support Express, Carbon Copy, Reachout, PC Anywhere, DOS 6.22, and Novell 4.11.