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Maurice Russell
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** ****** ******, ******* ****, Kingston 20, Jamaica W.I.
1-876-***-**** 1-876-***-**** *********@*********.***
OBJECTIVE
CAREER OBJECTIVE: A responsible audit position with the management team of a progressive, dynamic organization utilizing my financial and managerial experience.
Creating an atmosphere of camaraderie, an environment of trust, active participation and enthusiastic endeavor amongst audit staff while striving hard towards achieving my goals and helping the organization achieve its objectives.
SKILLS
• Management and Administrative Skills;
Managed accounts departments of varying sizes.
Experience of being in charge of general office administration.
Managed audits of varying sizes
Implemented work processes to improve productivity and received appreciation for improved results.
Assisted clients with tax investigations in the UK.
• Technical Skills
Extensive auditing experience.
Experience of UK, Trinidad and Jamaican taxation and audit environment.
Experience in preparing strategic plans, business plans and cash flows for various types of businesses.
Experience and knowledge of various types of accounting, auditing and financial software including Audit Working Paper Software (AWS, Gamex, Workpapers), data analytical software such as ACL, IDEA,, ActiveData, TopCAAT, accounting software such as Accpac, Platinum, Sage, Best Software MAS 500, Solomon, Quick Books and the Microsoft Office Suite.
Knowledge of inventory control, credit control, cash flow management and other aspects of working capital management.
ACHIEVEMENTS
• Carried out Forensic Audit resulting in arrest of individual for fraud.
• Created and implemented Risk Management Policy and Procedures.
• Implemented Audit Methodology to assist firm in complying with International Auditing Standards.
WORK HISTORY
Audit Manager
Mar 2011 - Present
PAUL GOLDSON & COMPANY
KINGSTON
I rejoined Paul Goldson & Company with the specific purpose in mind of putting in place procedures and methodologies to ensure compliance with all current auditing standards and introduce on a firm wide basis modern computerized auditing systems. I set out firstly on a training program, starting with the basics in terms of documentation of audit evidence, covering also issues in planning such as materiality, understanding the client, significant risk and fraud issues. I introduced templates to assist in the documentation process, trained the staff in the usage and showed by example how to use them. I also introduced at minimal cost software for data mining and data analytics. Software for working paper documentation was also introduced.
My portfolio of clients included several credit unions, construction companies, retail organizations, mining companies, charities, IDB and EU projects.
As audit manager I developed a track record of achievement for analyzing business processes, procedures and activities to identify organizational issues, reduce risks, recover lost funds and formulate recommended solutions. Expertly utilized methodologies to measure operational efficiencies, financial integrity, reporting capabilities and asset safeguarding.
Normal activity included the planning and developing of audit scope, objectives and program using risk- and control-based auditing techniques, along with walkthroughs and review of clients' operating and accounting procedures.
Internal Audit Manager
Sep 2008 - Mar 2011
CAYMANAS TRACK LIMITED
ST. CATHERINE
Caymanas Track Limited is the sole racing promotion company in Jamaica. I developed the audit strategy, developed audit plans, and executed audits, in relation to for example inventory management, Stables Operations, Pari-mutuel Operations, Off Track Betting facilities, Property Expenses, Security and Garage Operations. I developed an Enterprise Wide Risk Management Policy and Procedures inclusive of the Risk Register. The compliance aspect of my role included ensuring compliance with the Pari-Mutuel Rules, the Betting and Gaming legislation and regulations, and the Income Tax, Corporation Tax and General Consumption Tax laws.
I was also involved in cost reduction and led the team in the efficiency, economy and effectiveness exercise. Analyzing procedures, systems, job descriptions and making recommendations for rationalization and cost reduction.
Handled various auditing task and prepared reports on auditing activities. I made effective suggestions to improve internal controls which were implemented and duly appreciated.
I assisted management in understanding various risks, and errors in accounting records.
I carried out investigations handling of various transactions and accounts to bring out inefficiencies and fraudulent activities which at times led to arrest and subsequent attendance at court. I routinely prepared audit programs and reports for top management.
Audit Senior
Dec 2004 - Sep 2008
ERNST AND YOUNG
PORT OF SPAIN
Ernst & Young is the number four, audit firm in the world and as such the local firm had to adhere to the firm’s international standards. The learning environment at EY is very good. I played a leading role in major audits in Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica and the wider Caribbean region in various sectors. Examples of audits I have been on include Readymix (TCL Group), the Jamaica Flour Mill Limited, BP, Schlumberger, WASA, Spancrete (Century Eslon Group), Ansa McAl St. Lucia and CTC Comfort Zone.
The day to day role included assessing internal control procedures specific to business and support areas. Conclude and propose recommendations for improvement in processes and system controls. Review transactions, documents, records, and methods for accuracy and effectiveness. Conduct interviews and observations and complete asset verification. Develop risk assessments for critical business processes.
Prepared presentations and reports on audit examinations, conclusions, and recommendations. Conducted post-audit follow-ups to measure outcome of corrective actions taken.
Financial Analyst
Nov 2003 - Nov 2004
PETROLEUM COMPANY OF JAMAICA LIMITED
KINGSTON
My position covered the long and medium term planning for the company, inclusive of the corporate plan for submission to Parliament. I also produced the financial reports for submission to monthly board meetings. My responsibilities include ensuring the company’s financial reports were compliant with international accounting standards. I assisted in the management of the Finance Department of approximately seven persons. Part of my function was to co-ordinate the timely completion of the annual audit by PricewaterhouseCoopers.
Accountant
Feb 2003 - Jun 2003
AIRPORT AUTHORITY OF JAMAICA
NEW KINGSTON, KINGSTON
The Authority was in the process of privatization of the Sangster’s International Airport and their Head Office Accountant had to be seconded there. Thus I was offered a four-month contract for the position of Accountant, reporting to the Vice President – Finance, responsible for the running of the accounts department of approximately six persons. I had to ensure monthly accounts were produced on time and was personally responsible for investments. They were in the process of preparing for their audit by KPMG and I was responsible for coordinating this.
Finance, Systems and Administrative Manager
Feb 2001 - Dec 2002
FORTUNE CORPORATION LIMITED
KINGSTON 10, KINGSTON
I was first employed as Finance and Accounts Manager, responsible for all aspects of the financial affairs of the Corporation. The position entailed management of the Loans Department and the Collection Process. I was also responsible for the management of the accounts department. I was also expected to contribute to the planning and development of systems and controls. After seven months I was role was upgraded to the post of Finance, Systems and Administration Manager, which had the added responsibilities of general administration and human resource management.
Audit Supervisor
Jun 1996 - Jan 2001
AULOUS F. MADDEN & COMPANY
KINGSTON 4, KINGSTON
The firm is the local representative of both Arthur Anderson and Pannell Kerr Forster. I was in charge of planning and supervising audits for approximately 50% of the client portfolio. The industries involved were of a wide range, including manufacturing and financial. I was also involved in the tax affairs of each audit client as well as several international tax referrals from
Arthur Anderson.
I prepared audit plans and assigned team members to numerous audit engagements.
* Supervised, reviewed, and developed audit team members.
* Communicated with clients to ensure satisfaction of expectations and tight deadlines.
* Reviewed reports, opinions, management letters and tax returns.
Audit Senior
Oct 1994 - Oct 1995
RICHARD ANTHONY AND COMPANY
FINCHLEY CENTRAL, LONDON
I continued with my objective to gain my UK practicing certificate. The work was thus mainly audit and accounts preparation, with some taxation. The clients varied from medium sized companies to sole proprietors and partnerships. The practice was highly computerized and their taxation, auditing, and accounts preparation services were all automated. I became eligible for my practicing certificate in October 1995.
Continued to fulfill senior auditor duties, managing and conducting all facets, including planning, preparation, fieldwork, work paper review, and reporting,
Tax Assistant
May 1993 - Aug 1994
NEIL O'SULLIVAN AND ASSOCIATES
CRICKLEWOOD, LONDON
I got involved in the preparation of tax computations and tax returns for companies, partnerships and sole traders. I had to also deal with tax investigations. As well as being involved in tax, I was also the in-charge accountant on several audits, preparation of accounts assignments, business plans and cash flows for various types of organizations.
Audit Semi-Senior
Jun 1992 - Nov 1992
THAPER & CO
HANDSWORTH, BIRMINGHAM
I joined Thaper and Co. with the objective of getting my post qualification experience to become a registered auditor in the UK. I was Head of the VAT Department, supervising staff of three to five. I was also involved in preparation of accounts and audits of limited companies. Auditman, Auditplus and Pegasus were some accounting \audit software used.
FULL TIME SCHOOLING
Jun 1991 - Dec 1991
EMILE WOOLF COLLEGE OF ACCOUNTANCY
LONDON, LONDON
I traveled to London from Jamaica to complete my Level III A.C.C.A. finals. The results were favorable and I decided to get some experience in the U.K... My work permit came through in April 1992.
Financial Controller
Mar 1990 - May 1991
JAMAICAN FLORAL EXPORTS LIMITED
KINGSTON, KINGSTON
I was the Chief Financial Officer of the company, reporting to the board of directors and the Group Finance Director. I ensured monthly financial statements were prepared on a timely basis, made an analysis of them and presented them to board meetings. I also participated in the long-term planning of the company, advising on strategy, using spreadsheet modeling and graphics to analyze and present the data. Of course the job included the usual financial control functions of working capital management, cash flow preparation and control, budget preparation and control. I implemented software that helped to increase the efficiency of the accounts department allowing us to carry out the monthly close process and produce the monthly financial statements on a timely basis.
Management Consultant
Jan 1989 - Mar 1990
PEAT MARWICK AND PARTNERS (KPMG)
KINGSTON, KINGSTON
I was a consultant in both the Finance Division and the Information Technology Division of the practice. I gained experience in systems selection, implementation and development. I also participated in the training of the staff of clients after software implementation. My training at KPMG consultancy arm included the use of several accounting packages. I got involved with the writing of systems procedures and policies manuals, also in straight financial accounting, preparation of budgets and forecasts, and management audits. I was also outsourced to clients as Financial Controller.
Chief Accountant
Dec 1987 - Oct 1988
EASTERN BANANA ESTATES LIMITED
KINGSTON, KINGSTON
I was in charge of an accounts department of twelve that included a centralized computer function. Monthly accounts had to be prepared and analyzed. I participated in the budgetary control procedures, which included variance analysis. As well as supervising the accounting department, I was also in charge of the administration of the general office.
Group Internal Auditor
Jul 1987 - Dec 1987
UNITED GENERAL INSURANCE CO. LTD
KINGSTON, KINGSTON
I was in charge of the internal audit department, which was a new function to the group. Audit programs had to be written and the structure and reporting hierarchy of the audit department had to be defined. There were five companies in the group including, the insurance company, an insurance brokerage company, an investment company and a computer service company. I successfully performed numerous internal investigations and legal/regulatory noncompliance. Drafted new audit programs and corresponding work papers
Assistant Chief Accountant
Jan 1987 - Jun 1987
COFFEE INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENT CO. LTD
KINGSTON, KINGSTON
Reporting to the Chief Accountant, I had the responsibility of supervising the accounting department and producing monthly financial statements. I also participated in budget preparation.
Senior Auditor
Jan 1984 - Nov 1986
PANNELL KERR FORSTER
KINGSTON, KINGSTON
A wide range of experience was gained on several audits
assignments as the in charge accountant.
Assignments were under taken in the following industries:
* ADVERTISING
I worked on the audit of several advertising companies.
this included planning of the audits according to staffing, time
budgets, and the writing of the audit program. The testing
and reporting on of internal and other management controls
as required by statute as well as analyzing and advising
on the performance of the companies were some of the
normal functions.
* GARMENT INDUSTRY
Experience was gained in several manufacturing as well
as retailing organizations.
* CREDIT UNION
Duties relevant to credit union audit included e.g.
assessing lending procedures and ensuring compliance with
regulations of Jamaican Credit Union League.
Audit Assistant
Jan 1981 - Dec 1984
PAUL GOLDSON & CO
KINGSTON, KINGSTON
This was my introduction to auditing where I learnt the basics of audit evidence and documentation, while assisting on audits and accounts preparation of various sizes.