Ema Silva

Business Operations professional with over 15 years of experience across operations, procurement, finance and business support. Experienced in supplier management, budget control, process improvement and cross-functional collaboration within fast-paced environments. Currently responsible for the operational and financial management of a 150+ bed international student residence, leading a multidisciplinary team while collaborating with Finance, Commercial, Operations, Marketing, Facilities and Health & Safety teams.

Known for improving processes, bringing structure to day-to-day operations and building effective working relationships across international teams.

Residence Manager at Nido Living (2023-02 – Present)

• Lead the operational and financial management of a 150+ bed international student residence, ensuring efficient day-to-day operations and high service standards.
• Coordinate a multidisciplinary team of six employees, ensuring efficient operations and an excellent resident experience.
• Source suppliers, evaluate quotations and independently manage purchasing decisions within approved operational budgets, escalating non-budgeted investments for management approval.
• Manage supplier relationships across maintenance, furniture, equipment, cleaning services and other operational requirements.
• Monitor budgets, expenditure and KPIs to support operational and financial performance.
• Develop procedures and documentation to improve operational consistency and efficiency.
• Collaborate closely with Finance, Commercial, Marketing, Facilities and Health & Safety teams within an international business environment.

Finance Administrator at Nido Living (formerly SmartStudios) (2022-05 – 2023-01)

• Managed resident accounts, payment allocation and invoicing while supporting financial controls.
• Performed bank reconciliations and supported financial controls to ensure accurate reporting.
• Processed supplier payments and prepared accounting documentation for external finance partners.
• Acted as the operational link between the residence team and the finance function, ensuring accurate financial information and timely issue resolution.
• Supported the continuous improvement of financial and administrative processes.

Administrative Assistant at BICredit by Banco Invest (2018 – 2022)

• Reviewed and validated financial documentation for pre-approved credit agreements, ensuring compliance and accuracy before activation.
• Supported partners and customers throughout the credit approval and reanalysis process.
• Ensured documentation quality while maintaining compliance with internal procedures and regulatory requirements.
• Contributed to efficient workflow management by coordinating documentation and process consistency across the team.

Administrative & Finance Coordinator at Illusive (2013 – 2017)

• Provided executive support to the Managing Director, coordinating priorities, business travel, meetings and day-to-day administrative activities.
• Represented the Managing Director in meetings when required, ensuring continuity of business activities.
• Managed relationships with banks, insurance providers, suppliers and external business partners.
• Coordinated financial administration, treasury activities and accounting documentation.
• Supported payroll administration and HR documentation.
• Organised international business travel, including logistics and meeting schedules.

Accounting Assistant at MSL Contabilidade (2009 – 2013)

• Supported the full accounting cycle for multiple client companies.
• Prepared VAT returns, Social Security submissions and payroll-related documentation.
• Performed bank reconciliations, invoicing and accounting entries.
• Maintained accurate financial records while supporting statutory and fiscal compliance.

Secondary Education in Economics & Accounting