Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Cheryl Funkhouser

Strasburg,VA

Summary

Dynamic finance professional with extensive experience as CFO and Director of Finance at Massanutten Military Academy, excelling in financial consulting and income tax preparation. Proven track record in reducing operational costs and enhancing cash flow management. Strong organizational skills and a commitment to compliance ensure accurate financial reporting and client satisfaction.

Strategic finance leader with robust experience in corporate financial management and strategic planning. Strong focus on team collaboration, driving financial performance, and adapting to changing business needs. Expertise in financial analysis, budgeting, risk management, and compliance. Known for reliability and achieving significant results through effective leadership and strategic decision-making.

Overview

38
38
years of professional experience

Work History

IRS Preferred Tax Preparer, Accountant and Consult

Cheryl Funkhouser Accountant
06.1987 - Current
  • Maintained high levels of confidentiality when dealing with sensitive client information, fostering trust and loyalty among clients.
  • Analyzed financial records to verify accuracy of tax returns.
  • Provided exceptional customer service during peak tax season by remaining calm under pressure and addressing client concerns promptly and professionally.
  • Increased client satisfaction by providing accurate and timely tax preparation services.
  • Completed and filed returns with tax departments at local, state, and federal levels.
  • Maintained complete records of client tax returns and supporting documentation in secured areas.
  • Reviewed clients tax filing papers thoroughly to determine eligibility for additional tax credits or deductions.
  • Prepared tax returns for clients in various industries according to government regulations and requirements.
  • Handled complex cases involving small business owners, self-employed individuals, and those with investments or rental properties, showcasing versatility in expertise within the field of taxation.
  • Researched complex tax issues utilizing online resources and professional tax software.
  • Ensured compliance with federal and state tax regulations by staying up-to-date on the latest tax laws.
  • Achieved high levels of accuracy by staying informed on changes in relevant regulations and applying that knowledge to each unique case.
  • Streamlined tax filing processes for clients, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience.
  • Prepared tax returns, extensions, tax planning calculations, and write-ups for organizations and entities.
  • Conducted thorough research to identify potential deductions and credits for clients, maximizing their returns.
  • Contacted IRS or other relevant government organizations on behalf of client to address issues related to tax self-preparation.
  • Analyzed prior year returns for discrepancies, correcting errors to favor clients' financial positions.
  • Assisted clients with IRS audit preparation, significantly reducing stress and complexity of process.

Finance and Advance Coordinator

Randolph Macon Academy
11.2020 - 02.2025
  • Entered data, generated reports, and produced tracking documents.
  • Improved team productivity with regular communication and progress updates, fostering a collaborative work environment.
  • Enhanced operational workflows by maintaining well-organized documentation systems and updating records accurately as needed.
  • Gathered and organized materials to support operations.
  • Coordinated cross-functional teams, resulting in seamless project execution and enhanced outcomes.
  • Improved project outcomes with meticulous attention to detail in planning phases, ensuring all requirements were met ahead of deadlines.
  • Boosted team morale and productivity by organizing team-building activities and maintaining open-door policy for feedback and concerns.
  • Facilitated cross-departmental workshops to identify process improvements, leading to more efficient workflow and reduced bottlenecks.
  • Prioritized and managed multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring all met their deadlines and objectives without compromising quality.
  • Interceded between employees during arguments and diffused tense situations.

CFO and Director of Finance

Massanutten Military Academy
08.2001 - 01.2020
  • Reduced operational costs by identifying areas for improvement and implementing cost-saving measures across various departments.
  • Prepared accurate financial statements at end of quarter to summarize financial health and business performance.
  • Conducted detailed analysis of company financial information and oversaw preparation of related reports.
  • Spearheaded the implementation of a new financial reporting system, resulting in more accurate and timely data for decision-making purposes.
  • Managed relationships with external auditors, ensuring a smooth and efficient annual audit process with minimal findings or issues identified.
  • Ensured compliance with all regulatory requirements by staying current on industry developments and implementing necessary controls within the organization.
  • Oversaw the preparation and submission of all tax filings, mitigating potential risks associated with noncompliance.
  • Directed budget development, creation of budgetary controls and recordkeeping systems and investment management.
  • Enhanced cash flow management through the development of robust forecasting models, ensuring optimal liquidity for business operations.
  • Evaluated investment opportunities diligently, contributing to informed decisions regarding potential projects and their expected returns.
  • Oversaw deployment of strategic business plans to accomplish accounting, compliance, and revenue targets.
  • Negotiated favorable terms with vendors and suppliers, achieving significant savings on procurement expenses.
  • Streamlined financial processes by implementing automation and reducing manual tasks, leading to increased efficiency and accuracy.
  • Led budgeting process, collaborating with department heads to allocate resources strategically and ensure alignment with organizational goals.
  • Presented financial results to board members and investors during quarterly meetings, maintaining transparency in communication regarding company performance.
  • Analyzed operational issues and implemented corrective action to maximize profits.
  • Refined internal control procedures, strengthening the overall integrity of financial data captured within the system.
  • Managed risk effectively through the establishment of a comprehensive risk management framework, safeguarding company assets against potential threats.
  • Tracked cash flow and financial planning to analyze company's financial strengths and weaknesses and propose strategic directions.
  • Directed budget development, budgetary controls and recordkeeping to make informed financial decisions.
  • Collaborated with legal, accounting and other professional teams to review and maintain compliance with regulations.
  • Devised and presented business plans and forecasts to board of directors.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Accounting

Shenandoah University
Winchester, VA
05-1987

Associate of Applied Science -

Lord Fairfax Community College
Middletown VA
05-1984

Skills

  • Organization skills
  • Document preparation
  • Income tax preparation
  • Local, state, and federal tax returns
  • Work on trusts and estates
  • Financial consulting

Timeline

Finance and Advance Coordinator

Randolph Macon Academy
11.2020 - 02.2025

CFO and Director of Finance

Massanutten Military Academy
08.2001 - 01.2020

IRS Preferred Tax Preparer, Accountant and Consult

Cheryl Funkhouser Accountant
06.1987 - Current

Bachelor of Science - Accounting

Shenandoah University

Associate of Applied Science -

Lord Fairfax Community College