Strategic Finance & Operations Leader with Global Experience

T

Sambou

Traore

***/***-****

tsambou****@gmail.c

om

Germantown, MD

20876

WWW: Bold Profile

PERSONAL SUMMARY

Adept at leading diverse teams to achieve strategic goals, my tenure at the United Nations Peacekeeping Operations showcases a proven track record in financial stewardship and operational efficiency, managing a $2 billion budget. Skilled in analytical thinking and team building, I excel in driving projects to completion, enhancing organizational productivity by over 30%.

SKILLS

Leadership

Dependable and responsible

Communication

Organization

Analytical and critical thinking

Team building

Multitasking Abilities

Project planning

EXPERIENCE

Acting Chief Operations & Resource Management

Bangui, Central Africa Republic

United Nations Peacekeeping Mission/ Feb 2022 to Mar 2024 As acting Chief of Operations and Resources Management and Senior Administrative Officer, I was in charge to directing and overseeing the strategic and cross-cutting mission support functions mainly Human Resources, Budget and Finance Management, Mission Support Centre with a view to ensuring coherence in forecasting, performance monitoring, planning, and coordination of mandated activities related to operational and resourcing activities

I was responsible for an effective resource allocation and utilization, monitoring budgets, ensuring appropriate financial and budget controls, reviewing resource allocations in accordance with strategic goals and outcomes by identifying Managed employee relations issues such as grievances, disciplinary actions, and performance management.

Developed and enforced company policy and procedures relating to human resources activity.

Advised senior executives on organizational structure changes that could improve efficiency or productivity.

Scheduled meetings with employees to address concerns and grievances. Supported and monitored overall soldier welfare.

Liaised between management and employees by relaying work information, adjustments and grievances.

Collaborated with other departments on initiatives related to workforce planning and talent acquisition.

Created process improvements, policies, procedures and knowledge management to resolve employee discrepancies.

Prioritized and organized tasks to efficiently accomplish service goals. Senior Administrative Officer

Bangui, Central Africa Republic

United Nations Peacekeeping, CAR, MINUSCA/ Jul 2020 to Feb 2023 As the mission's Senior Administrative Officer, I Acted as the principal advisor to the Director of Mission Support (DMS), as well as other senior leadership of the Mission in administrative, logistical support and operations matters Assisted the DMS in the planning, organizing, implementing, managing and overseeing all activities pertaining to human resources, budgeting, financial, logistic support

I drafted guidelines, Information Circulars reports and correspondence on a wide range of issues for the DMS and ensured that all relevant UN rules and regulations are adhered to

I took the lead on the development and implementation of special projects, such as Security/Evacuation

Plan, Welfare Activities, as requested, I evaluated the support provided to the various clients and/or partners and lead the costs recoveries from UN agencies, embassies and other entities on costs reimbursable basis

I assisted the DMS in the supervision of Security operations and Air Safety matters Assisted with budget preparation by gathering financial data from various sources. Assisted in preparing reports and presentations, ensuring high-quality documentation. Developed office policies and procedures to improve efficiency in operations. Delivered exceptional customer service through direct communication with clients and team members.

Managed calendar for senior staff, scheduling appointments and avoiding conflicts. Assisted in budget preparation and expense management activities. Ensured compliance with organizational guidelines and regulations. Handled confidential information in an appropriate manner according to company policy.

Handled incoming and outgoing correspondence, including email, mail, and package deliveries.

Provided organizational leadership and collaborated with executive partners to establish long-term goals, strategies and company policies. Executed on-time, under-budget project management to adhere to project road map. Coordinated arrangements for ground transportation, flight reservations, and lodging. Coordinated communication between various departments within the organization. Controlled and managed document processes by reviewing files, records and critical information to confirm accuracy and comply with company policies and procedures. Chief of Mission Support

Bujumbura, Burundi

United Nations Peacekeeping Operations/ Mar 2020 to Jul 2020 In my position of Chief of Mission Support,

I established the management of Key Performance Indicators (KPI) and monitors achievement of results

I also ensured that internal control framework is in place and issued appropriate sub-delegation of authorities for respective Section chiefs under my supervision. As Chief of Mission Support, I Contributed to the implementation of the mission mandate by providing the necessary managerial, logistical / technical and administrative support required for the fulfillment of the mandate, including such areas as budget, finance, human resources management, logistics / supply chain management, communications, transport, air operations, etc I Certified mission expenditures

Advised the Head of Office on all matters pertaining to administrative, budgetary and logistical support

Ensured the Organizational and

Departmental strategic goals and directions for the readiness against CoviD19 are achieved

Ensured preparation, coordination and monitoring of overall work plans, strategies and programmes for the support activities of the mission Performed other related work as required.

Developed and maintained a safe working environment, adhering to all safety protocols and regulations.

Identified areas for improvement, narrowing focus for decision-makers in making necessary changes.

Tracked progress on projects and provided timely feedback to staff members. Developed strategies to improve team performance and productivity. Directed and supervised team of more than 100 employees in daily operations. Managed budget for department, ensuring all expenses stayed within allocated funds. Addressed and resolved interpersonal conflicts within the team, maintaining a harmonious work environment.

Managed team of XX employees, ensuring high productivity and quality standards were met.

Fostered a positive and motivating work environment, leading to an increase in team morale.

Monitored employee productivity levels on a regular basis to identify areas of improvement.

Prepared and presented reports on team performance, challenges, and achievements to senior management.

Conducted weekly meetings with team members to discuss upcoming tasks and project deadlines.

Senior Administrative Officer

Bangui, Central Africa Republic

United Nations Mission in Central African Republic, MINUSCA/ Jul 2017 to Mar 2020 In my position as Senior Administrative Officer,

I developed office policies and procedures to improve efficiency in operations. Created presentations using Microsoft Office tools such as PowerPoint and Excel. Hired, trained, and mentored staff members to maximize productivity. Delivered exceptional customer service through direct communication with clients and team members.

Assisted in budget preparation and expense management activities. Provided support during special events organized by the organization. Ensured compliance with organizational guidelines and regulations. Managed and coordinated administrative operations for the organization. Handled confidential information in an appropriate manner according to company policy.

Provided organizational leadership and collaborated with executive partners to establish long-term goals, strategies and company policies. Optimized supply chain to reduce materials costs and improve distribution. Provided customer service, addressing inquiries and resolving issues promptly. Coordinated with IT department to resolve technical issues and maintain office equipment.

Facilitated communication between departments to support project completion and workflow efficiency.

Demonstrated strong problem-solving skills, resolving issues efficiently and effectively. Conducted comprehensive research and data analysis to support strategic planning and informed decision-making.

Assisted with budget preparation by gathering financial data from various sources. Chief Administrative Services

Abidjan, Cote D'Ivoire

United Nations Peacekeeping Operations/ Mar 2017 to Jul 2017 As Chief Administrative Services (CAS), I assisted the Chief of Mission Support (CMS) in the planning, organizing, implementing, managing and overseeing of activities pertaining to human resources, Procurement, budgeting, financial, logistic support as well as full implementation of the liquidation plan of ONUCI I make sure the preparation, coordination and monitoring of liquidation plan, strategies are fully completed

In charge of planning and monitoring financial and logistics requirements of the drawdown of ONUCI mission

I drafted guidelines

Information Circulars reports and correspondence on issues of the liquidation process for the CMS as requested

I liaised with local authorities, diplomatics missions stakeholders, UN Agencies, Funds and Programmes on behalf of the CMS

I represented the CMS in various standing Boards and Committees, such as Property Survey Board (PSB), Claims Review Board (CRB), and may act as alternate Chairperson of the Local Committee on Contracts.

Managed time effectively to ensure tasks were completed on schedule and deadlines were met.

Prioritized and organized tasks to efficiently accomplish service goals. Worked with cross-functional teams to achieve goals. Collaborated closely with team members to achieve project objectives and meet deadlines.

Senior Administrative Officer

Bangui, Central Africa Republic

United Nations Peacekeeping Mission, CAR, MINUSCA/ Jul 2015 to Mar 2017 As the Senior Administrative Officer,

I Acted as the principal advisor to the Director of Mission Support (DMS), as well as other senior leadership of the Mission in administrative, logistical support and operations matters

Assisted the DMS in the planning, organizing, implementing, managing, and overseeing all activities pertaining to human resources, budgeting, financial matters, and logistic support.

In cooperation with other offices of the Mission.

I drafted guidelines, information circulars, reports, and correspondence on a wide range of issues for the DMS and ensured that all relevant UN rules and regulations are adhered to.

I took the lead on the development and implementation of special projects, such as Security/Evacuation.

Plan welfare activities, as requested. I evaluated the support provided to the various clients and/or partners and led the cost recoveries from UN agencies, embassies, and other entities on a cost-reimbursable basis.

I assisted the DMS in the supervision of Security operations and Air Safety matters Assisted with budget preparation by gathering financial data from various sources. Scheduled appointments for executives with internal and external stakeholders. Developed office policies and procedures to improve efficiency in operations. Delivered exceptional customer service through direct communication with clients and team members.

Assisted in budget preparation and expense management activities. Provided support during special events organized by the organization. Conducted research and compiled data for various projects and reports. Ensured compliance with organizational guidelines and regulations. Managed and coordinated administrative operations for the organization. Responded promptly to customer inquiries via telephone or email. Handled confidential information in an appropriate manner according to company policy.

Prepared weekly and monthly status reports for senior management review. Signed and approved budgets for new funding and program initiatives. Handled incoming and outgoing correspondence, including email, mail, and package deliveries.

Assisted senior managers with research projects and data analysis activities. Provided organizational leadership and collaborated with executive partners to establish long-term goals, strategies and company policies. Supported the onboarding process for new hires, including documentation and orientation schedules.

Optimized supply chain to reduce materials costs and improve distribution. Provided customer service, addressing inquiries and resolving issues promptly. Oversaw corrective action plans to remedy structural, organizational and departmental issues.

Created and maintained filing systems to ensure efficient retrieval of documents. Executed on-time, under-budget project management to adhere to project road map. Coordinated arrangements for ground transportation, flight reservations, and lodging. Coordinated with IT department to resolve technical issues and maintain office equipment.

Facilitated communication between departments to support project completion and workflow efficiency.

Utilized advanced technical skills and expertise to troubleshoot complex problems and implement solutions.

Worked effectively in team environments to make the workplace more productive. Chief Finance Officer

Flasher, Sudan

United Nations Peacekeeping Operations/ Aug 2009 to Jul 2015 As the CFO,

I ensured proper financial stewardship and management of the Mission's $2 billion annual budget

Maintained functioning of accurate and complete accounting systems. Exercised delegated authority from the Controller, with respect to approving Mission's disbursements and obligations and maintaining both PK and Trust funds

Performed duties as Approving Officer and ensured that expenditures, obligations and disbursements are approved on time

Lead as UNAMID IPSAS focal point and Umoja Site

Coordinator in the mission readiness from UNSAS to IPSAS, Bosnia & Herzegovina

(International

Prepared detailed reports for executive leadership regarding key performance indicators such as sales growth or expense ratios. Coordinated financial statement reviews to coordinate variance reporting, analysis of year-to-date and forecast performance against expectations. Created and implemented best practices to standardize internal processes and procedures.

Established policies related to internal controls over accounting systems as well as financial processes within the organization.

Managed company-wide budgets, payroll, accounting and other financial operations. Prepared financial forecasts to support fiscal planning and management. Made proactive adjustments to fiscal policies according to available company resources and desired outcomes.

Conducted regular financial reviews of operations to identify areas for improvement in terms of cost savings or process improvements.

Created annual budgets and monitored performance against them to ensure objectives were achieved.

Signed and approved budgets for new funding and program initiatives. Developed corporate risk management programs by establishing strict documentation and financial guidelines and spearheading risk management committee. Maintained updated knowledge through continuing education and advanced training. Promoted high customer satisfaction by resolving problems with knowledgeable and friendly service.

Finance Officer

Khartoum, Sudan

United Nations Mission/ Oct 2005 to Aug 2009

As the Chief Payroll & Vendors Payment Unit,

I prepared monthly, quarterly and annual financial reports for management review. Oversaw all postings and reconciliation of ledgers and accounts. Entered corrected records into software and added additional adjustments as required. Compiled statistics, statements and reports on pay and benefits to submit to department heads.

Researched discrepancies between paychecks and personnel files for accuracy. Maintained confidentiality of sensitive payroll documents and records. Processed new employee paperwork and entered information into payroll system. Maintained up-to-date payroll records by recording employee exemptions, transfers and resignations.

Generated relevant paperwork and payroll reports.

Processed payroll data and maintained accurate records of employee time, wages, deductions, taxes, benefits, and other information. Reviewed timesheets for accuracy prior to processing payroll runs. Reconciled payroll discrepancies by reviewing time sheets, production charts and wage tables.

Kept operations in compliance with requirements by applying knowledge of applicable regulations, legal statutes, and tax code information. Reconciled payroll accounts on a monthly basis to ensure accuracy of data entry into the system.

Accountant, Finance Officer & Payroll Officer

New York, NY

United Nations Headquarters/ Oct 2003 to Oct 2005

As Finance and Payroll Officer,

My responsibilities and Achievements are: -.Payroll Processing and Benefits Oversight: I meticulously reviewed and authorized the payroll for field missions, ensuring accurate calculation and timely distribution of salaries, salaries advances, education grants, and repatriation grants

This extends to final payments and any other related benefits for staff members stationed outside the UN Headquarters

Contractor Payroll: Within the UNHQ, I was responsible for approving the payroll of short-term contractors, including diverse roles such as tour guides, UNPA members, language teachers, etc.

Accounts Management: I reviewed and managed payroll accounts receivables associated with staff members, initiating appropriate actions for recoveries where necessary

Repatriation Grants: Reviewing outstanding repatriation grants pertaining to former, retired, or separated staff members

This includes assessing the eligibility of individuals concerned processes Developed staff expense and reimbursement tracker to reduce user errors and increase reporting accuracy.

Maintained up-to-date knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles guidelines.

Reviewed invoices for accuracy and completeness prior to payment processing. Provided guidance to other departments regarding accounting policies and procedures.

Performed general ledger reconciliations on a timely basis. Assisted in the preparation of tax returns by gathering necessary information from clients and maintaining organized files with documents related to taxes. Investigated and resolved billing issues to maximize cash flow and minimize liabilities. Created journal entries accurately and timely for month end close processes. Performed audits of operational and financial areas to check compliance. Minimized internal accounting department backlogs by updating accounts and generating reports.

Supported efficient accounting operations with high-quality administrative support. Gathered banking transactions via statements, recorded activity in Excel format and reconciled balances.

Achieved cost-savings by developing functional solutions to problems. Utilized advanced technical skills and expertise to troubleshoot complex problems and implement solutions.

Provided support and guidance to colleagues to maintain a collaborative work environment.

Chief Liquidation Unit

New York, United States

United Nations Department, FMSS, / Jul 2000 to Oct 2003 During my tenure as the Chief of the Liquidation Unit of DPKO, I assumed a leadership role marked by effective management and notable achievements Oversaw and directed operations of Liquidation Unit personnel. Financial Oversight: I meticulously reviewed, monitored, and approved journal entries and payment requests for former staff members

UNPOL, and MILOBS

Claims and Financial Statements: I undertook the review of Claims of Entitlements

(COE), Letters of Assist (LOA), and Death and

Disability (D&D) claims from Troop Contributing Countries (TCC) I ensured funds availability prior to certification and payment by the Program Planning and Budget Division (PFD)

Furthermore, I oversaw the timely completion of monthly and year-end closing processes for all 12 missions

Financial Reporting: I approved financial performance reports and assets disposition reports for submission to ACABQ and the 5th

Committee

Chief of Payroll Officer

Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina

United Nations Mission in Bosnia Herzegovina/ Aug 1998 to Jul 2000 As the Chief of the Payroll, I undertook a pivotal role encompassing a wide spectrum of responsibilities and achievements: Payroll Oversight: In my supervisory role, I meticulously reviewed, monitored, and granted approval for all payroll processing and payment for over 3,500 employees (MILOBS, UNPOL, international and local staff, as well as personnel from other UN agencies) operating in the Balkans. Final Payments: I played a critical role in the monthly processing and final payment execution for more than 300 outgoing staff members monthly. Payments Unit Leadership: My role included overseeing the timely settlement of payments for both international and local vendors, as well as staff members, for all non-payroll claims.ms In essence, my leadership was characterized by an unwavering commitment to precision, compliance, and efficiency.

That is the reason, I was promoted to take on the position of Chief of the entire liquidation unit in of DPKO, Mila Bernado ****@***.*** 703/444-6502,,United States of America

Sambou TRAORE (7839671) Application Date:, Overview:Invoice Accuracy Enhancement: Conducted comprehensive reviews of major customer invoices, meticulously identifying discrepancies and rectifying billing inaccuracies Invoice Adjustment: Applied intricate calculation methodologies within the company's database (CvIEWS) to reprice and credit corrected invoices, employing advanced calculation techniques.Systematic Journal Entry: Proficiently executed the upload of Journal Vouchers (JVs) into the SCAMRS system to ensure accurate financial records I was tasked with the reconciliation, the review, and re-invoicing of the largest client's account within the company, IBM

Driven by my aspiration for greater professional opportunities and my desire to contribute to a more extensive and impactful realm, led me to seek new opportunities I was recruited to serve the United Nations Peacekeeping Missions in Bosnia & Herzegovina in August 1998 and served as the Chief of Payroll and Vendors Payments Unit.

Billing Analyst

Arlington, Virginia

MCI WorldCom/ Jan 1998 to Aug 1998

As Billing Analyst, my duties were:

Analyzed complex financial documents including contracts, invoices, purchase orders. Investigated past due invoices and delinquent accounts to generate revenues and reduce number of unpaid and outstanding accounts.

Ensured that all financial documents were securely stored in accordance with corporate policy.

Created receiving reports and updated vendor balance sheets to record accounts payable.

Assessed billing statements for correct diagnostic codes and identified problems with coding.

Coordinated with vendors and suppliers to resolve any invoice disputes or discrepancies in a timely fashion.

Reviewed purchase orders, sales tickets and charge slips to compute fees or charges due.

Performed accurate and fully compliant monthly closing processes, accruals and journal entries.

Computed credit terms, discounts and shipment charges for goods or services to complete billing documents.

Processed customer payments, reconciled accounts receivable records, and updated customer accounts accordingly.

Accurately input procedure codes, diagnosis codes and patient information into billing software to generate up-to-date invoices.

Performed data entry into accounting software systems to generate accurate monthly invoices.

Reviewed and analyzed customer accounts to identify discrepancies between billed amounts and actual services rendered.

Financial Analyst-Consultant

Bethesda, MD

Lockheed Martin, Aeronautics/ Jul 1997 to Jan 1998 As Consultant and Financial Analyst, my responsibilities are: Identified discrepancies in financial data and recommended corrective actions to resolve them.

Provided financial analysis support during merger and acquisition (M&A) activities. Evaluated financial and operational performance of companies facing financial difficulties to determine possible remedies.

Performed quantitative analysis of historical data to identify patterns or anomalies in the data set.

Interpreted accounting policies and procedures to ensure regulatory compliance. Reviewed financial documents and records to assess accuracy and compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and standards.

Coordinated with cross-functional teams to gather financial data and insights for comprehensive reports.

Implemented cost-saving measures by analyzing expense reports and identifying inefficiencies.

Prepared monthly, quarterly and annual financial reports for management review. Conducted variance analysis to compare budgeted figures against actual results and identified causes of discrepancies.

Collaborated with senior management to develop and monitor key financial performance indicators (KPIs).

Monitored regulatory compliance in financial reporting and ensured adherence to accounting standards.

Assessed requisitions each month to ensure accuracy and reconciled transactions. Accounts Receivable Analyst

Bethesda, United States

George Washington University Hospital/ Nov 1996 to Jul 1997 As Accounts Analyst, my duties included:

Performing reconciliation of federal agencies' payroll and commercial groups' eligibility and financial records

Identifying and rectifying monthly billing errors, implementing necessary adjustments related to membership accounts

Conducting thorough research, audits, and evaluations of members' eligibility in the system

Managing the collection of overdue balances from members, closely tracking payments, and streamlining the accounts receivable report Utilizing a variety of software tools such as Lotus, Paradox, Excel, Quattro-Pro, MS Word, WordPerfect, SQL, CompuCare, and MHC

The successful collaboration of our team led to the effective reconciliation of accounts and the recovery of outstanding receivables from members This contributed to the company's improved financial standing, eliminating the need for potential mergers or sales that were considered. Verified and posted account transactions, providing weekly and monthly reporting of AP aging to senior management to maintain accounting ledgers. Performed research into disputed invoices or payments as needed. Examined customer payment plans, payment history and credit lines to research and resolve delinquent accounts.

EDUCATION

Masters or Equivalent: Behavioural Sciences

Université Pierre-Mendès-France Dec 1989

Grenoble, France

Bachelor's Degree: Mathematics

Université Gamal Abdel Nasser de Conakry Jul 1980

Conakry, Guinea

HS Diploma: Mathematics & Statistics

Lycee de Siguiri Sep 1976

Siguiri, Guinea

CANDIDATE

Sambou, Traore, 08/05/57, Male, ***********@*****.***, 240-***-****, 240-***-****, 19307 Whetafield Dr, Germantown, MD, 20874, United States of America, 19307 Whetafield Dr, Germantown, MD, 20874, United States of America, Former/ Retired Employee, 08/27/98, 02/28/23, 03/12/24, 04/04/24, 0, French, Mother Tongue, LPE, English, Mother Tongue, LPE, Master's degree (DEA), Other, Université Pierre-Mendès-France (Grenoble II), Grenoble, France, 12/22/89, Bachelor's Degree (Maitre es- Sciences), Behavioural Sciences, Université Gamal Abdel Nasser de Conakry, Conakry, Guinea, 10/01/80, HS Diploma, Mathematics & Statistics, Lycee de Siguiri, Siguiri, Guinea, 09/07/76, Senior Administrative Officer & Acting Chief of Operations & Resources Management (CORM), D1, Permanent, 08/01/20, 02/28/23, United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in CAR (MINUSCA), Bangui, Central African Republic, Sory Sangare, ********@**.***, +236********, Chief of Mission Support, P5, Permanent, 03/02/20, 08/01/20, United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Burundi, Bujumbura, Burundi, Ely Dieng, ****@**.***, +221-*********, Senior Administrative Officer, P5, Permanent, 07/27/17, 03/01/20, United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in CAR (MINUSCA), Bangui, Central African Republic, Milan Trojanovic, **********@**.***, +236********, Chief Administrative Services

(CAS), P5, Permanent, 03/03/17, 07/27/17, United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Cote D'Ivoire

(ONUCI), Abidjan, Cote D'Ivoire, Robert Kirkwook, ********@**.***, 172-3301, Senior Administrative Officer (SAO), P5, Permanent, 07/25/15, 03/03/17, United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in CAR (MINUSCA), Bangui, Central African Republic, Milan Trojanovic, **********@**.***, +236********, Acting Chief of Finance & Budget Officer/Senior Programme Officer, P4, Permanent, 08/28/09, 07/24/15, United Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Darfur (UNAMID), El Fasher, Sudan, Milan Trojanovic, **********@**.***, 212/963-1021, Finance Officer, Chief Payroll & Vendors Payment Unit, P4, Fixed term, 10/05/05, 08/28/09, United Nations Mission in Sudan (UNMIS), Khartoum, Sudan, John Noisette, ********@**.***, 175-5520, Accountant, Finance Officer & Payroll Officer, P3, Fixed term, 10/01/03, 10/05/05, United Nations Department of Management, Accounts Division, UNHQ, New York, United States of America, Christophe Monier, ******@**.***, 212/963-1021, Chief of DPKO Liquidation Unit, P4, Limited duration, 07/03/00, 10/03/03, United Nations Department of Peacekeeping Operations, FMSS, New York, United States of America, James Mutiso, ******@**.***, 212963 Chief of Payroll & Vendors Unit, P3, Limited duration, 08/25/98, 07/03/00, United Nations Mission in Bosnia & Herzegovina, Sarajevo

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