Shirley J. Smith
Jackson, MS • 601-***-**** • **********@*****.***
Open to Remote Accounting & Finance Roles
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Senior Accounting and Grants Professional with 25+ years of experience in financial reporting, grants management, accounts payable/receivable, and general ledger reconciliation. Proven ability to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, streamline financial processes, and improve reporting accuracy. Skilled in month-end close, budgeting, and financial analysis. Detail-oriented, reliable, and highly effective in remote and fast-paced environments.
CORE SKILLS
Financial Reporting & Analysis
General Ledger & Reconciliation
Accounts Payable & Receivable
Grants Management & Compliance
Budgeting & Forecasting
Month-End & Year-End Close
Data Entry & Accuracy Control
Audit Support & Internal Controls
Microsoft Excel (Advanced)
QuickBooks (Working Knowledge)
SAP (Familiarity)
Banner System (JSU)
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Grants & Contracts Accountant
Jackson State University — Jackson, MS
Jan 2010 – Feb 2021 (Retired)
Managed multiple federal and state grants, ensuring full compliance with regulatory guidelines
Prepared and analyzed monthly financial reports for internal leadership and external funding agencies
Administered grant budgets, improving fund allocation and minimizing variances
Processed requisitions, purchase orders, and payments with accurate account coding
Generated invoices, tracked receivables, and ensured timely collections
Maintained general ledger entries and financial records in Banner system
Strengthened financial accuracy through detailed reconciliations and audit-ready documentation
Fiscal Officer II
Mississippi Department of Human Services — Jackson, MS
May 2007 – Jan 2010
Reviewed and approved subgrants for compliance with federal and state regulations
Processed financial data and allocation entries with high accuracy
Managed subgrantee close-out documentation and reporting
Coordinated financial reporting and cash requests with accounting and budget teams
Accountant/Auditor II
Mississippi Department of Health — Jackson, MS
Jul 1999 – May 2007
Performed account reconciliations and resolved discrepancies across multiple general ledger accounts
Prepared detailed financial reports to support management decision-making
Managed budgeting and financial monitoring processes
Conducted cash receipt reconciliations to maintain financial integrity
Accountant/Auditor I
Public Employees’ Retirement System — Jackson, MS
Dec 1997 – Jul 1999
Conducted audits and evaluated internal controls for compliance
Performed data reconciliation and financial analysis
Prepared financial reports and budget evaluations
Accountant
McRae’s / Proffitt’s Inc.
May 1995 – Dec 1997
Prepared financial reports and journal entries for general ledger
Managed account reconciliations and tax reporting
Supported budgeting and financial operations
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Science in Business Finance
Jackson State University
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
25+ years of government, nonprofit, and institutional accounting experience
Strong background in grants accounting and compliance
Experienced with remote work tools and adaptable to new systems
Available for remote, contract, or full-time opportunities