Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Websites
Certification
Timeline
Generic

CHERI FREESE

Marina,CA

Summary

Experienced finance professional specializing in GAAP compliance and strategic planning. Co-managed a $90M budget at Monterey One Water, enhancing financial reporting and audit readiness. Recognized for effective cross-functional collaboration and team development, leading ERP modernization initiatives. Established track record in financial communication and successful audits.

Overview

9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Controller / Assistant Director of Finance

Monterey One Water
Monterey, CA
12.2024 - 06.2025
  • Co-led the Finance Department for a regional utility with a $90M annual budget.
  • Directed financial operations including audit readiness, financial reporting, AP/AR, payroll, and procurement.
  • Implemented internal control enhancements and automated financial tracking systems to support data integrity and audit efficiency.
  • Partnered on long-range financial planning and capital improvement initiatives.
  • Reorganized team structure to clarify roles, enhance accountability, and support succession planning.
  • Resolved compliance matters related to pension reporting and financial policy accuracy.
  • Spearheaded ERP system evaluation and modernization efforts to reduce redundancy and improve data access.

Director of Finance

City of Ridgecrest
Ridgecrest, CA
06.2016 - 12.2024
  • Led all finance functions for a full-service city including budgeting, accounting, treasury, and grants.
  • Developed and managed a $40M+ operating and capital improvement budget.
  • Presented financial performance reports and projections to executive leadership and elected officials.
  • Modernized reporting tools and transitioned to data-driven decision-making platforms.
  • Collaborated with multiple departments and external agencies on funding agreements, cost-sharing models, and compliance.
  • Recognized for clear and engaging financial communication with diverse stakeholders.
  • Successfully navigated multiple audits with no findings, demonstrating strong internal controls.

Education

MBA - Management

California Coast University
01.2016

Skills

  • GAAP and GASB compliance
  • Budget development and management
  • CIP financing strategies
  • Cost allocation techniques
  • Fund accounting principles
  • ACFR and CAFR reporting
  • Audit readiness and compliance
  • Payroll processing
  • Accounts payable and receivable
  • Fixed asset management
  • Advanced Excel proficiency
  • Oracle NetSuite expertise
  • Tyler Technologies ERP knowledge
  • Financial dashboard creation
  • Budgeting software utilization
  • Strategic planning initiatives
  • KPI tracking and analysis
  • Team development strategies
  • Cross-functional collaboration skills
  • Board and executive presentations

Affiliations

  • Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), Member, Small Government Forum & Women’s Public Finance Network
  • California Society of Municipal Finance Officers (CSMFO), Member
  • California Municipal Treasurer’s Association (CMTA), Member

Certification

Certified California Municipal Treasurer (CCMT), 2024

Timeline

Controller / Assistant Director of Finance

Monterey One Water
12.2024 - 06.2025

Director of Finance

City of Ridgecrest
06.2016 - 12.2024

MBA - Management

California Coast University

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