Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Timeline
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Deborah Alston

Deborah Alston

Aberdeen,NC

Summary

Detail-oriented and results-driven operations and finance professional with over 15 years of experience in accounts payable, human resources, and organizational operations. Proven ability to manage multiple priorities with accuracy and efficiency. Recognized for leadership, technical expertise, and commitment to improving processes and compliance across departments.

Overview

21
21
years of professional experience

Work History

Operations Specialist for Human Resources

Center for American Progress
07.2023 - Current
  • Post job openings, screen resumes, and coordinate initial interviews.
  • Manage offer letters, background checks, and new hire documentation.
  • Facilitate onboarding and orientation for new employees.
  • Employee Records & HRIS
  • Maintain employee records and ensure HRIS data accuracy.
  • Track changes such as promotions, transfers, and terminations.
  • Ensure compliance with employment documentation (I-9s, W-4s).
  • Enroll new employees in benefit programs (medical, dental, 401(k)).
  • Conduct benefit orientations and assist with open enrollment.
  • Maintain employee handbook and ensure legal compliance (FMLA, ADA).
  • Conduct workplace investigations and training on policies (e.g.,
  • Act as HR point of contact for employee concerns and conflicts.
  • Conduct exit interviews and promote engagement and retention strategies.
  • Performance Management & Training
  • Coordinate performance review cycles and track employee goals.
  • Identify training needs and manage compliance certifications.
  • Oversaw day-to-day operations, delegating tasks appropriately to ensure smooth workflow and timely completion of projects.

Accounts Payable Manager

Center for American Progress
07.2017 - 07.2023
  • Managed $27M in AP and travel operations; ensured policy and audit compliance.
  • Managed accurate and timely processing of over 600 invoices per month.
  • Reduced payment discrepancies with thorough invoice review, analysis, and reconciliation efforts.
  • Improved vendor relationships through timely payments and clear communication of company policies.
  • Managed team of accounting staff, providing guidance and support to ensure accurate financial reporting.
  • Implemented internal controls to mitigate risk of fraud, ensuring financial integrity within organization.
  • Managed vendor contracts effectively, reviewing terms periodically to ensure alignment with company objectives.
  • Collaborated with other departments to resolve billing issues promptly and maintain accurate financial records.
  • Supported audit processes with well-organized documentation of accounts payable transactions, minimizing errors or discrepancies found during audits.
  • Built strong relationships with vendors to enhance cost offerings and accomplish favored customer status.
  • Spearheaded process improvements initiatives resulting in increased efficiency within accounts payable department.
  • Ensure invoices were coded to the correct expense account.

Accounts Payable Specialist

Center for American Progress
10.2010 - 07.2017
  • Ensured timely payments for all invoices, maintaining strong relationships with vendors and suppliers.
  • Reduced invoice processing time with accurate data entry and timely vendor communication.
  • Reached out to vendors and customers to verify information and follow up on client issues.
  • Contributed to year-end closing process by ensuring all outstanding payables were accurately recorded and settled promptly.
  • Trained junior staff members in accounts payable procedures, increasing overall department efficiency.
  • Matched purchase orders with invoices and recorded necessary information.

Accounts Payable Clerk

Academy for Educational Development
09.2004 - 08.2009
  • Reviewed vendor invoices for appropriate documentation and validity prior to payment.
  • Prepared vendor invoices and processed incoming payments.
  • Maintained good working relationships with vendors and resolved disputes.

Education

High School Diploma -

Ballou High School
Washington, DC
06.1986

Skills

  • Operations & Administrative Support
  • Accounts Payable & Travel Management
  • HRIS & Employee Records Management
  • Recruitment & Onboarding
  • Benefits & Payroll Administration
  • Employee Relations & Compliance
  • ERP Systems: Unanet, Concur, Anybill, Paycom, AmTrav
  • Training & Performance Management
  • Policy Development & Audit Readiness
  • Attention to detail
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Excellent communication

Accomplishments

Academy for Educational Development 2008 Leadership Award
for my extraordinary contributions which have so
directly increased the impact of the Academy's programs. My
high caliber of technical expertise and leadership enhance the
academy reputation for excellence.

Timeline

Operations Specialist for Human Resources

Center for American Progress
07.2023 - Current

Accounts Payable Manager

Center for American Progress
07.2017 - 07.2023

Accounts Payable Specialist

Center for American Progress
10.2010 - 07.2017

Accounts Payable Clerk

Academy for Educational Development
09.2004 - 08.2009

High School Diploma -

Ballou High School

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