GEENA ZAPATA
Frisco,TX
Summary
Detail-oriented accounting professional with 8 years of experience at Packaging Corporation of America, specializing in manufacturing accounting and financial reporting. Expertise includes month-end close, budgeting, variance analysis, and internal controls, ensuring accuracy and compliance in all financial processes. Proven leadership in enhancing employee engagement initiatives and training associates in a variety of accounting duties. A collaborative approach with cross-functional departments has consistently driven operational efficiency and provided vital support to plant leadership.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Plant Accountant
Packaging Corporation of America
08.2025 - Current
- Perform month-end close activities, including journal entries, accruals and account reconciliations.
- Support accounts payable and accounts receivable activities, managing customer accounts and collections.
- Support internal and external audit activities and provide documentation related to financial reporting and controls.
- Assess customer credit profiles and prepare new customer setups
- Trained and supported the accounting team on systems and processes, fostering the development of an Accounting Associate for enhanced team capabilities.
- Selected to lead the Carrollton location’s Employee Engagement Committee, building on prior experience leading employee engagement initiatives in Plano.
- Coordinated employee initiatives, managing the ordering of location clothing and company swag to boost team morale.
Associate Plant Accountant
Packaging Corporation of America
02.2024 - 08.2025
- Prepared financial reports and analyzed plant performance metrics to support management review and informed decision-making.
- Managed accounts receivable activities, including third-party invoicing and customer account management, ensuring timely collections and accurate payment application.
- Processed and audited freight payments for accuracy.
- Trained and supported accounting team members on accounting processes, systems, and procedures.
- Cross-trained and provided backup support for the accounting department, ensuring continuity of operations during absences.
- Led employee engagement initiatives, facilitating meetings and coordinating activities.
- Participated in the Safety Committee, working with employees and leadership from various departments.
- Oversaw ordering of employee clothing and promotional items for the Plano location.
Senior Accounting Associate
Packaging Corporation of America
02.2018 - 02.2024
- Supported accounting and administrative operations in a manufacturing environment, enhancing efficiency in accounting processes.
- Managed daily payroll records and supported accounts payable activities.
- Tracked Certificates of Insurance and sales tax exemptions and supported compliance-related documentation.
- Maintained documentation for monthly food safety audits and served on the Safety Committee.
- Cross-trained across departmental responsibilities, fostering versatility and teamwork.
Education
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) - Accounting
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT11-2023
Associate of Arts - Business
Collin College
Plano, TX12-2021
Skills
- Financial reporting
- Accounting training
- Variance Analysis
- Audit Support
- Reconciliations
- Month-end close
- AP/AR
- Customer Credit
- ERP systems proficiency
- Microsoft Office
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Journal entries
- Communication
Timeline
Plant Accountant
Packaging Corporation of America
08.2025 - Current
Associate Plant Accountant
Packaging Corporation of America
02.2024 - 08.2025
Senior Accounting Associate
Packaging Corporation of America
02.2018 - 02.2024
Associate of Arts - Business
Collin College
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) - Accounting
Western Governors University