Finance Manager/Controller

CHARLENE GORDEN-CANNON

*** ****** **** ***** • New Orleans, Louisiana 70131

********.******.******@*****.*** • 504-***-****

Accountant • Financial Manager

Extensively experienced and goal-oriented Controller and Finance Manager with a demonstrated track record of leading the preparation and analysis of financial reports to summarize and forecast financial position. Proven expertise in driving efficiency and productivity through evaluation of financial management systems and implementation of process improvements. Talented leader directing highly skilled financial management teams to support achievement of overall corporate goals and objectives. Core competencies include:

• Accounting Management

• Financial Analysis

• Forecasting • Cash Management

• Budgeting

• Cost Reductions • Technology Integration

• Regulatory Compliance

• Efficiency Improvements

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

STARWOOD HOTELS & RESORTS – W Hotels of New Orleans, New Orleans, Louisiana, 2007-May 2010

Complex Assistant Director of Finance

Directed financial management functions including development of monthly/quarterly financial statements, financial forecasts, and budgets. Oversee general accounting functions, including AR/AP Payroll, Income audit, account reconciliation, and cash management. Administer all financial management systems, evaluating and integrating new applications. Develop highly skilled accounting and financial management team to achieve established objectives. Interact with the General Manger and Executive Committee concerning financial forecasts and reports.

 Successfully integrated accounting departments for both hotels that improved efficiency and productivity.

 Spearheaded implementation of technology that improved tracking reducing operating expenses 20%.

 Strategically restructured financial reporting processes in accordance with organizational changes.

 Served as key leader in effectively managing 15% annual revenue growth.

STARWOOD HOTELS & RESORTS – W New Orleans Hotel, New Orleans, Louisiana, 2004-2007

Assistant Director of Finance

Prepared financial reports, developed budgets, and performed variance analysis in accordance with business plan. Compiled periodic financial reporting packages for senior management. Carried out internal audits to ensure regulatory compliance and operational efficiency/accuracy. Built and led teams in carrying out special projects.

 Reduced monthly closing cycle by three days with identification and recommendation of enhanced closing procedures.

 Consistently met deadlines while demonstrating strong analytical and problem-solving skills to achieve corporate objectives.

 Increased productivity levels by providing key contributions toward automation of account reconciliation processes.

 Carried out general ledger functions, including account analysis and reconciliation, journal entries, and managed AR/AP and Payroll areas.. Prepared financial statements.

 Awarded Manager of the Quarter Award 4th Quarter – 2004 & 2nd Quarter -2007 in recognition of outstanding performance.

STARWOOD HOTELS & RESORTS – Sheraton New Orleans Hotel – 2001-2004

Chief Accountant

Carried out general ledger functions, including account analysis and reconciliation, journal entries, and sales tax preparation.

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EDUCATION

Master of Arts, Organizational Management (2001)

UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX – New Orleans, Louisiana

Bachelor of Arts, Accounting (1992)

DILLARD UNIVERSITY – New Orleans, Louisiana

COMPUTER SKILLS

• Experienced with the following Accounting and Payroll software: SAP, TimeSaver on Demand, StarSource On-line Purchase Order system.

• Proficient in Excel, Word, Publisher, and PowerPoint.

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