Kelly Willis
Mundelein,IL
Summary
Dynamic business professional with expertise in accounting, finance, and information technology, demonstrating a proven ability to lead teams and drive organizational growth through fiscal responsibility and innovative problem-solving. Strong emphasis on collaboration and adaptability aligns seamlessly with evolving business needs, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Proficient in accounting, budgeting, financial analysis, and system integration, backed by a commitment to integrity and delivering exceptional results. Recognized for leveraging analytical skills to enhance operational efficiency and support strategic decision-making.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
VP of Finance and Business Systems
Prominence Hospitality
Des Plaines, IL
03.2022 - Current
- Streamlined financial reporting procedures, improving accuracy and timeliness of deliverables.
- Promoted transparency by establishing clear communication channels between accounting department and other areas within the organization.
- Streamlined month-end closing process through automation, resulting in reduced processing time and increased accuracy of reports.
- Conducted thorough due diligence for potential acquisitions, minimizing risks associated with mergers or acquisitions activity.
- Oversaw preparation of annual budgets, incorporating input from department heads to align resources with organizational priorities.
- Guided cross-functional teams in the execution of complex projects related to finance systems implementation or process improvements.
- Oversaw accounting operations and controlled transactions related to payroll, financial reporting, payables and receivables.
IT Solutions Analyst
Integrated Merchandising Solutions
Morton Grove, IL
10.2019 - 03.2022
- Supported system integrations by testing functionalities and identifying areas for improvement
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop solutions enhancing operational efficiency
- Assisted in training staff on new tools and processes, fostering a culture of continuous improvement
- Monitored project timelines and deliverables to ensure alignment with strategic objectives
IT and Accounting Manager
Lake Lawn Resort
Delavan, WI
04.2012 - 10.2019
- Analyzed financial statements to ensure compliance with accounting standards and regulations.
- Assisted in the preparation of budgets, forecasts, and financial reports to support strategic planning.
- Evaluated existing accounting systems, recommending upgrades to improve functionality and reporting capabilities.
- Enhanced client satisfaction with tailored financial advice, addressing specific needs and concerns.
- Led projects aimed at optimizing month-end closing processes, reducing turnaround time significantly.
- Led IT team in implementing software solutions to enhance operational efficiency.
Owner/Accounting and IT Consulting
Innovative Technology Resources
Mundelein, IL
07.2011 - 07.2016
- Oversaw daily operations, ensuring efficiency in service delivery and project execution.
- Managed financial aspects of the business, including budgeting, financial reporting, and tax preparation.
- Consulted with clients to build connections, assess needs, propose optimal solutions and cultivate relationships.
- Recruited, hired, and trained personnel, working to establish key internal functions and foundational processes for a new organization.
Accounting and IT Analyst
Spire Hospitality
Northbrook, IL
10.2000 - 05.2011
- Analyzed IT and Accounting systems to identify areas for improvement and optimization.
- Supported implementation of software solutions enhancing operational efficiency.
- Documented processes and workflows to ensure consistency across departments.
- Assisted in training staff on new technologies and system updates.
- Developed user guides and documentation for internal IT applications.
- Developed custom solutions, tailoring technical and financial specifications to meet unique needs.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Business
Eastern Illinois University
Charleston, ILSkills
- Mergers and acquisitions
- Stakeholder communication
- Technology and Systems Integration
- Financial analysis and reporting
- Comprehensive accounting
- Internal and Field Audits
- Project Management
- Business process optimization
- Employee Training and Development
- Client relations management
Accomplishments
- Improved productivity and utilization of staff skills by eliminating manual processes and replacing them with automated procedures using Visual Basic programming, data extraction, and alert reporting.
- Accelerated monthly financial closings by aligning General Ledger accounts and re-engineering financial reporting packages.
- Processed confidential employee records, verified large sums of cash and inventories, trained employees, and assessed the immediate accounting and technical needs of properties.
- Consistently promoted and entrusted to handle additional duties and responsibilities that contributed to the overall success of the company.
Timeline
VP of Finance and Business Systems
Prominence Hospitality
03.2022 - Current
IT Solutions Analyst
Integrated Merchandising Solutions
10.2019 - 03.2022
IT and Accounting Manager
Lake Lawn Resort
04.2012 - 10.2019
Owner/Accounting and IT Consulting
Innovative Technology Resources
07.2011 - 07.2016
Accounting and IT Analyst
Spire Hospitality
10.2000 - 05.2011
Bachelor of Science - Business
Eastern Illinois University