Elisa Palazzolo
Ocean Township
Summary
Accounts Payable and Finance professional with 18+ years of progressive experience, including leadership in high-volume financial operations within higher education and corporate environments. Currently operating in an expanded capacity supporting Accounts Payable management functions at Monmouth University, overseeing workflows, vendor relations, and process improvements. Proven ability to strengthen internal controls, streamline processes, and support Procure-to-Pay (P2P) transformation initiatives. Recognized for driving efficiency, ensuring compliance, and maintaining strong cross-functional relationships. Seeking to formally transition into an Accounts Payable Manager role to lead operations and enhance team performance.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Accounts Payable Lead (Expanded Role)
Monmouth University
West Long Branch
02.2024 - Current
- Assumed day-to-day operational oversight of Accounts Payable following leadership transition, ensuring continuity of critical financial functions.
- Manage high-volume AP operations, processing 1,200+ invoices monthly, including reimbursements, vendor payments, and weekly check runs.
- Oversee payment approval workflows, ensuring compliance with university policies and strengthening internal controls.
- Act as primary liaison between Accounts Payable, Purchasing, and university departments, resolving escalated issues and improving communication.
- Support vendor onboarding, W-9 compliance, and audit-ready documentation processes.
- Contribute to Procure-to-Pay (P2P) transformation initiatives, identifying opportunities to improve efficiency and automate workflows.
Credit & Collections / Accounts Receivable Manager
Hatteras Press
Tinton Falls
10.2014 - 06.2023
- Led Accounts Receivable, credit, and collections operations, overseeing daily financial workflows and reporting.
- Supervised and developed team members, improving productivity, accountability, and overall performance.
- Directed full-cycle AR processes, including invoicing, credit approvals, and account reconciliation.
- Managed $3.5M+ in monthly sales volume and aged trial balances, ensuring financial accuracy and consistency.
- Reduced Days Sales Outstanding (DSO) from over 90 days to under 1%, significantly improving cash flow.
- Implemented electronic billing systems, transitioning from manual to digital processes and increasing efficiency.
- Partnered with leadership on forecasting, reporting, and financial strategy initiatives.
- Resolved complex account issues and strengthened client relationships through effective communication.
Accounting Associate
Freehold Buick GMC
Freehold
10.2006 - 10.2013
- Managed full-cycle Accounts Payable, including vendor payments and reconciliations.
- Administered employee benefits and coordinated with providers.
- Processed vehicle sales transactions, including financing and loan documentation.
- Maintained compliance with state regulations for titles and registrations.
- Reconciled accounts and resolved discrepancies to ensure financial accuracy.
- Supported month-end close and prepared financial reports.
Skills
Accounts Payable Leadership Procure-to-Pay (P2P) Team Coordination
Process Improvement Vendor Relations Internal Controls & Compliance
Financial Reporting Workflow Optimization ERP Systems Audit Readiness
Education And Professional Development
- Continuing Education in Accounting & Finance (In Progress)
- Long Branch High School
- NJ CAR Motor Vehicle Certification
- NJ Real Estate License
Timeline
Accounts Payable Lead (Expanded Role)
Monmouth University
02.2024 - Current
Credit & Collections / Accounts Receivable Manager
Hatteras Press
10.2014 - 06.2023
Accounting Associate
Freehold Buick GMC
10.2006 - 10.2013