Carissa A

Detail-oriented Accounting Professional with extensive experience in the restaurant and hospitality sector. Proven expertise in full cycle accounting, financial reporting, internal controls, and variance analysis. Adept at leveraging data-driven insights to optimize operational workflows, drive cost savings, and strengthen financial performance.

Assistant Controller - Fitler Club/Little Horse Tavern

(2023-01)

• Directed full-cycle accounting operations, implementing internal control frameworks across two entities to ensure rigorous financial reporting standards.
• Spearheaded systems integration, migrating five disparate platforms to a unified ERP environment to optimize financial reporting accuracy and efficiency.
• Developed standardized budgeting templates and forecasting models for nine revenue streams; introduced weekly Actuals-to-Budget reporting to drive departmental accountability.
• Managed complex prepayment schedules, month-end accruals, and deferrals as well as reconciliations to maintain balance sheet integrity.
• Analyzed operational financial performance, identifying significant cost-saving opportunities in payroll and controllable expenses.
• Monitored daily + weekly cash flow to plan for capital expenditures and larger projects.
• Assisted the outside audit and tax accountants
• Insourced billing operations, successfully recovering over $400k in aged receivables.
• Leveraged sales data analysis to provide strategic recommendations, driving a 40% year-over-year increase in annual membership commitments.
• Built trust and good relationships with the operations teams

Senior Accountant - Fearless Restaurant Group

(2021-01 - 2023-12)

• Implemented systems to reconcile revenue streams and improve AR collections.
• Led software implementations that improved financial reporting, leading to cost savings and better inventory practices.
• Collaborated with management on budget and forecasting processes.

Senior Accountant - 4 Star Restaurant Group

(2019-01 - 2021-12)

• Part of a two-person team for a 10-location group, reconciled bank activity, daily sales and provided initial monthly financial data.
• Developed a tip distribution sheet and processed bi-weekly payrolls.
• Streamlined processes to enhance efficiency and find cost savings
• Reconciled accounts and reviewed income statements for monthly close.

MS - Accountancy - DePaul University (2019-01 - 2021-12)

BA - English Writing Arts - Oswego University of NY (1999-01 - 2003-12)