Elford Davis
*** ********* ******. **, **********, DC 20011 202-***-**** ***********@***.***
EDUCATION/CERTIFICATIONS
Howard University Master of Business Administration (MBA) Washington, DC 1998
Lincoln University Bachelor of Science - Business Administration Jefferson City, MO 1995
Montgomery College Associates of Art - Information System Silver Springs, MD 2004
CompTIA A+ 2019
EXPERIENCE
AOC Solutions Washington, DC Jan 2023- Present
Information System Auditor @ US Coast Guard
Plan, coordinate, and conduct operational, regulatory, and technical audits in accordance with DOD/Coast Guard and industry audit standards.
Perform risk assessments of internal controls over financial reporting (ICFR) for critical technology functions, risk management, application, and third-party management (DHSTIER/ EMPOWHR) based on defined sensitivity and information flow.
Conduct comprehensive research to establish process narratives and workflows, emphasizing the integration of cost models and allocation methodologies in portfolio management.
Scrutinize audit evidence with a focus on cost-related policies and procedures, ensuring adherence to established cost models. Evaluate the operating effectiveness of controls within allocated time budgets, emphasizing cost allocation efficiency.
Assess the design and operating effectiveness of IT controls through a detailed examination of system security plans, SOPs, audit logs, configuration scans, and vulnerability scans, with an emphasis on cost considerations.
Identify control gaps within business processes, specifically analyzing known IT control weaknesses and developing targeted remediation plans that incorporate cost-efficient measures.
Prepare audit documentation tailored for senior management, providing insights into auditing procedures performed, controls tested, results of testing, and findings, with a specific focus on cost-related aspects.
Monitor and track findings, making cost-conscious recommendations to stakeholders for the prompt resolution of issues identified in audits and reviews.
Edit and review work papers of team members, ensuring the integration of cost models and monitoring the progress of audits. Report any delays or issues to management, emphasizing the impact on cost efficiency in portfolio management.
Reviewed SOC 1 (SSAE18) reports to access third party user controls and to document any changes since the last audit period.
COMPTECH Fort Belvoir, VA Jul 2021- Jan 2023
Information System Auditor @ DLA
Documented and reviewed quarterly updates and patches for Oracle ERP Cloud. Reconciled subledgers of Oracle EBS and/or Oracle Cloud Applications Performed audit remediation and internal control testing for the 2021-2022 financial information system audit at the Defense Logistics Agency.
Collaborated with business stakeholders and various technology teams to develop and implement solutions aligned with business requirements, integrating cost models and efficient cost allocation strategies.
Monitored and tracked Notice of Findings & Recommendations (NFR) along with their remediation status in collaboration with the compliance team. Conducted comprehensive NFR reviews and feedback sessions, actively participated in the development of NFR Recommendations and Management Responses, and provided essential support for NFR management and reporting, including Plan of Action and Milestone (POA&M) management, with a cost-focused perspective.
Tracked Corrective Action Plans (CAPs) to proactively identify potential compliance issues and actively contributed to mitigating risks. Ensured that cost implications were considered in the development and execution of CAPs.
Revised and updated existing programs with a keen focus on incorporating cost-efficient measures, providing the necessary documentation to support streamlined portfolio management.
Formulate internal audit reports highlighting key risks and delivering value-added recommendations for enhancing the cost-effective internal control environment. Proactively follow up on agreed audit actions, ensuring timely management commitment delivery within predefined cost models.
TMR (Technical and Management Resources) Washington, DC Oct 2018- Jun 2021
Functional Analyst @ USCG
Performed IT-related SOX compliance testing, including the evaluation of IT general controls (ITGCs) application controls, and key reports.
Conducted an in-depth trend analysis of departmental risks, contributing to the development of new financial procedures. Emphasized cost implications in risk analysis and ensured alignment with efficient cost models.
Spearheaded the development of user requirements for COMSATCOM and engaged in the selection of a new multi-factor attenuating process for DirectAccess, emphasizing cost-effectiveness throughout the decision-making process.
Managed and processed client requests for assistance via e-mail and phone, applying critical thinking skills to troubleshoot issues with clients, technicians, and third-party vendors. Prioritized cost-efficient solutions in problem-solving approaches.
Analyzed business processes, identifying, and implementing solutions to ensure the completion of mission-critical transactions in the system by Coast Guard end users, with a focus on optimizing cost structures.
St. Michael’s Fort Belvoir, VA Sep 2017- Sep 2018
Sr Financial Auditor/ Independent Contractor @ DLA
Developed a reconciliation framework for the in- transit population to resolve finding in audit readiness preparation while conducting risk assessment/ gap analysis of business processes to determine financial and operational internal controls effectiveness.
Maintained a focus on Privacy Act compliance, meticulously preparing and submitting deliverables. Actively participated in Information System Control Audit Manual (FISCAM), financial system, and internal control audits, providing valuable support with a keen eye on optimizing cost structures.
Evaluated the effectiveness of IT controls, ensured compliance with regulations, and supported SOX compliance efforts.
Preferred Government Solutions Rockville, MD Sep 2015- Aug 2017
Financial Analysis Manager/ Independent Contractor @ NIH
Performed systematic examinations of financial records, management reports, management controls, policies and practices while reviewing allegations of fraud, waste, and abuse in NIH’s grants. Developed recommendation and corrective actions plans for management review based on FIAR Act and Privacy Act requirements.
Assumed a pivotal role in formulating comprehensive case theories and plans, leveraging expertise to meticulously review contracts and grants records. Conducted thorough interviews with subjects of investigations and witnesses, employing a strategic approach to evidence gathering with a specific emphasis on cost-related considerations.
Spearheaded the drafting of investigation reports, incorporating nuanced recommendations for remediation. These reports were crafted with a meticulous eye on cost-efficient measures to optimize resource utilization. Actively participated in briefings with relevant stakeholders, including senior executives, ensuring clear communication of findings and implications.
Facilitated interviews with subject matter experts to gather insights and opinions, leveraging their expertise to refine recommendations or provide valuable input for follow-up on remediation measures. This involved a detailed analysis of potential cost implications and considerations to ensure effective and economically sound remediation strategies.
Wai & Associates Washington, DC February 2015- August 2015
Senior Financial Consultant/Independent Contractor @ NASA
Examined and tested financial records and management controls to determine if financial records had been maintained in accordance with applicable regulations. Reported significant audit findings that cover the conditions discovered such as their cause and effect as well as developed recommendations for corrective action.
Conducted internal audits with a dual focus on financial systems and IT system controls with emphasis on integrating cost models and allocation methodologies into the assessment.
Conducted operational and financial/functional analyses of transaction flows, ensuring a thorough examination of workflow documentation. Validated general ledger balances and executed a detailed review of financial statement line items, identifying discrepancies and abnormal balances. Reviewed journal vouchers and scrutinized for unsupported adjustments, demonstrating a keen understanding of Financial Reporting Controls with a cost-conscious perspective.
Identified areas of significant IT risk, evaluated the effectiveness of IT control systems, ensured compliance with regulatory requirements and recommend improvements.
ACICS Washington, DC October 2012 - January 2015
Institutional Finance and Portfolio Manager
Review audited financial statements submitted by Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS) member institutions to monitor compliance with policies and procedures as well as applicable federal and state laws and regulations. Meet with management to discuss financial improvement plans, access financial stability of the institution, addresses areas of significant risk, develop financial presentations, and evaluate overall effectiveness of operations at institutions.
Evaluated IT portfolio plans through a portfolio management lens, focusing on time frames, funding limitations, cost estimates, and procedures for project execution. Emphasized the allocation of resources and staffing requirements, integrating cost models and efficient cost allocation methodologies for portfolio optimization.
Oversaw the meticulous collection and analysis of financial ratios for over 900 institutions, providing critical insights to management on financial, compliance, and business matters within the portfolio. Collaborated with the CFO to enhance financial projections, continuously monitoring budgetary actuals versus projected monthly figures with an emphasis on cost-conscious decision-making. Reconciled spending plans with actual and planned expenditures, proactively recommending options to address potential over- or under-utilization of resources within the portfolio. Played a key role in the development of program-specific funds management documentation, providing essential cost modeling and estimating support for the strategic formation of budgets, ensuring optimal cost allocation for portfolio success.
Freelance Consulting Washington, DC March 2010 - September 2012
Senior Consultant
Prepared, reviewed, and populated the company's SOX database. Prepared risk assessments, developed annual audit plans, performed compliance reviews, and prepared work papers to support the fieldwork. Reconciled work breakdown structure (WBS) codes in the financial database functions to determine risk levels, documented operational procedures (COSO) and evaluated the existence/effectiveness of manual and automated internal controls.
Conducted an in-depth benchmark study to identify financial management best practices across various federal agencies, leveraging insights to develop comprehensive policies and procedures. Applied cost models and efficient cost allocation strategies in the formulation of guidelines. Developed performance measures and dashboard reporting tools, ensuring timely communication of key performance metrics within the portfolio management framework.
Established direct liaison experience with federal agencies to collaboratively develop compliant policies. Documented intricate business specifications for risk platforms and processes, with a keen focus on optimizing cost structures.
Led research and analysis efforts to support management decisions, translating overarching goals and special requests into actionable plans within the portfolio context. Undertook the transformation of an outdated legacy system into a fully integrated accounting system, leveraging USSGL principles. Reconciled general ledger accounts, specifically in Hyperion, managing over $45M in monthly activity. Produced monthly narratives explaining budget variations with a meticulous eye on cost-conscious practices within the portfolio.
Howard University Washington, DC November 2008 - February 2010
Director Internal Controls and Policy Administration
Documented financial, operational and compliance policies and procedures. Evaluated financial and operational internal controls effectiveness throughout the organization. Formulated recommendations for corrective actions which are consistent with the audit findings, internal control considerations and are cost beneficial testing design of identified internal controls. Served as the liaison for multiple teams within the Office of the Comptroller, internal and external auditors. Conducted risk assessment for the organization as well as performed operational and financial reviews.
Orchestrated a cross-departmental team to address audit findings related to insufficient documentation. Conducted thorough research on storage options and formulated recommendations, emphasizing cost models and efficient cost allocation strategies. Developed a tracking tool to monitor the entire invoice request and receipt process, identifying process owners. Successfully augmented storage capacity by 37%, concurrently negotiating a reduced yearly storage fee by clearing six abandoned storage spaces. Realized savings of $1.2 million in resolved question costs and achieved a notable reduction of nine audit findings the subsequent year.
Led the preparation of Management Letter Comments responses, translating complex information into a comprehensible crosswalk to expedite accurate responses. Acted as an internal consultant to ensure the implementation of adequate internal controls and processes aligned with changing business practices. Established and implemented templates with guidelines and instructions for Management Letter Comments response preparation, incorporating knowledge of GAAP to assure compliance with OMB Circular A-133. These templates remain integral to current practices.
KPMG Washington, DC December 2006 - October 2008
Senior Consultant
Conducted internal audits of operations focused on government contract compliance, business processes, and financial systems including IT system controls. Documented business processes to gain an understanding of entity-level controls, identify relevant financial statement assertions, develop process narratives, and develop flowcharts. Created checklists to document the key processes and develop test plans to test the key controls identified in each process. Maintained supporting documentation and provided additional support to management as warranted.
Collaborated with cross-functional, multi-organizational teams to strategically plan and develop an impactful, customer-focused training program aimed at enhancing Customer Quality scores and mitigating non-compliance fines. Introduced a motivational contest to engage employees and heighten their awareness of the issue, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Teamed up with supervisors to devise management action plans, resulting in a substantial $136K reduction in fines over a one-year period. Achieved a remarkable 36% improvement in Customer Quality scores and sustained enhanced scores for six consecutive quarters.
Conducted financial statement audits and assessed the effectiveness of centralized financial controls at federal agencies for compliance audits. Leveraged Microsoft Office expertise to develop comprehensive process narratives and tools for testing internal controls at both entity and process levels. Executed financial audits with a keen focus on evaluating procedures and controls, leading to system changes, improved financial performance, significant enhancements in forecasting accuracy, and a notable 40% reduction in errors. Integrated cost models and efficient cost allocation strategies into the audit process for optimal financial outcomes.