Cade Zerby
St. Charles,IL
Summary
High-performing accounting professional with experience in public accounting, assurance, tax season support, and business operations. Known for analytical ability, sound business judgment, and strong ownership in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments. Brings a solid foundation in accounting, financial analysis, reporting support, process improvement, and cross-functional operations, with the leadership presence and operational mindset to grow into accounting management and team oversight roles.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Assurance Staff
Plante Moran
Schaumburg, IL
01.2025 - Current
- Support audit and assurance engagements through workpaper preparation, testing, account reconciliations, and client documentation support.
- Prepared and reviewed audit documentation for compliance with regulatory standards.
- Assisted in risk assessments to identify potential financial discrepancies.
- Collaborated with team members to streamline audit processes and improve efficiency.
- Assisted in the implementation of new software tools to improve the overall efficiency of audit procedures.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry regulations, accounting standards, and auditing techniques to ensure compliance.
- Prepared accurate and detailed reports for clients, highlighting key findings and recommendations.
- Identified potential risks and areas for improvement through thorough analysis of financial statements and records.
- Analyze financial information with close attention to accuracy, completeness, and engagement requirements.
- Work in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments while maintaining professionalism, responsiveness, and quality of work.
- Collaborate with seniors, managers, and clients to resolve issues, strengthen deliverables, and keep engagements progressing efficiently.
Marketing Manager
Wasco Nursery
St. Charles, IL
01.2018 - 04.2025
- Managed business-critical systems and operational processes for a multifaceted retail and service business.
- Led process improvements across e-commerce, reporting, web administration, and internal workflows to improve efficiency and execution.
- Supported decision-making through data analysis, performance monitoring, and hands-on ownership of key business functions.
- Developed and executed comprehensive marketing strategies to enhance brand visibility and customer engagement.
- Managed social media campaigns, increasing audience reach and interaction across multiple platforms.
- Oversaw budget allocation for marketing initiatives, ensuring effective resource utilization and maximizing ROI.
Tax Season Intern
Porte Brown LLC
Elk Grove Village, IL
01.2024 - 04.2024
- Supported tax season workflow in a public accounting environment, including 1099 processing, W-2 related work, and other time-sensitive client support tasks.
- Conducted research to support audits and tax preparation processes.
- Built practical experience in public accounting processes, confidentiality, professional communication, and deadline management.
- Earned trust by taking on priority assignments quickly and completing work accurately in a high-demand environment.
Education
B.A. - Business Management & Accounting, Minor in Finance
Judson University
Elgin, IL05-2025
Skills
- Accounting and financial analysis
- Financial reporting support
- Month-end close support
- Process improvement
- Microsoft Excel
- Data analysis and organization
- Business process ownership
- Account reconciliations
- General ledger understanding
- Internal controls awareness
- Operational reporting
- QuickBooks familiarity
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Professional communication
- Professional skepticism
- GAAP proficiency
- Internal controls
- Data analytics
- Customer service
- Problem-solving
- Time management
- Multitasking
- Organizational skills
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Professionalism
Timeline
Assurance Staff
Plante Moran
01.2025 - Current
Tax Season Intern
Porte Brown LLC
01.2024 - 04.2024
Marketing Manager
Wasco Nursery
01.2018 - 04.2025
B.A. - Business Management & Accounting, Minor in Finance
Judson University