DEANNA BELARDO
Gwynn Oak, MD ***** 410-***-**** *************@*****.*** www.linkedin.com/in/deannabelardo COLLECTIONS & ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE PROFESSIONAL
Detail-oriented and results-driven finance professional with extensive experience in law collections, accounts receivable, and client account management. Adept at implementing effective collection strategies, reconciling complex accounts, and negotiating payment arrangements to optimize cash flow and reduce outstanding receivables. Proven ability to collaborate with attorneys, clients, and third-party collectors to ensure timely payments and maintain strong client relationships. Skilled in e-billing platforms, financial reporting, and process improvements to enhance operational efficiency. Committed to delivering exceptional client service and driving financial accuracy within a legal environment.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Filing Record-Keeping Tenant Services Accounting Accounts Receivables Bankruptcy Money Invoicing Budget Coordination Leasing and Sales Needs Assessments Supply Ordering Data Analysis Staff Management Maintenance Scheduling Credit and Collections Clerical Support Payment Reconciliation
Dr. Deans 2000 Soft Dent Microsoft Office Suite Auto CAD Quick Books PageMaker Paint Shop Pro PeopleSoft Tririga Archibus Ariba systems Lotus Notes Outlook, Aderant Kronos CromeRiver ProVantage Nuance Power PDF CounselLink E-Billing Hub EXPERIENCE
Venable LLP November 2014 - January 2025
Client Accounts Project Coordinator
Managed the finance inquiry line and department email, ensuring prompt resolution of client payment inquiries. Identified and allocated unapplied cash, improving cash flow accuracy and reducing outstanding receivables.
• Managed the finance inquiry line and department email, ensuring timely follow-ups on past-due accounts and client payment inquiries.
• Developed and implemented collection strategies by identifying unapplied cash, reconciling accounts, and allocating funds accordingly, improving collection efficiency.
• Monitored past-due accounts receivable, working with internal stakeholders and external clients to recommend and implement actions that reduced outstanding balances.
• Conducted account reconciliations, ensuring accurate adjustments to client invoices and proactively resolving discrepancies.
• Negotiated revised payment arrangements with clients and coordinated with third-party collectors to expedite payment resolutions.
• Generated and analyzed monthly collection reports, including Hit List and Steering Committee packages, providing insights to leadership and attorneys on collection trends.
• Reviewed and processed e-billing invoices across platforms such as Serengeti, Collaborati, and Venable’s e-billing hub, ensuring compliance with billing guidelines.
• Assisted in cash application and payment processing, completing OFAC checks, ACH/wire payment requests, and refund processing.
• Conducted client account audits and third-party financial audits, ensuring adherence to financial policies and best practices.
• Ran Dunn & Bradstreet reports to assess client creditworthiness and mitigate financial risk.
• Developed and shared process improvements within Client Accounting, enhancing efficiency in collections and accounts receivable functions.
We Care Private Duty Service Inc. June 2014 - November 2104 Scheduler
Efficiently managed scheduling and customer service, resolving conflicts, negotiating agreements, and developing communication strategies to enhance client satisfaction and operational efficiency.
• Coordinated and managed scheduling, ensuring efficient appointment and resource allocation.
• Provided exceptional customer service by addressing client inquiries, resolving conflicts, and negotiating mutually beneficial agreements.
• Developed and implemented communication strategies to align with client objectives and enhance engagement.
• Proactively resolved scheduling conflicts, ensuring seamless operations and client satisfaction.
• Delivered high-quality service by actively listening to customer concerns and providing timely, effective solutions.
ADDITIONAL RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
Associate Property Manager & Office Manager Mercantile Bank & Trust/ PNC Bank Baltimore, MD Assistant Property Manager Harbor Group Management Company Baltimore, MD EDUCATION
Hagerstown Community College
Completed 1.5 years of coursework toward a Bachelor of Science in General Studies (Evening courses).