Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Volunteer
Lashanda Gholston-Harris

Lashanda Gholston-Harris

Sunflower,MS

Summary

Experienced and detail-oriented accountant with a strong analytical mindset and comprehensive knowledge of GAAP principles. Proficient in all facets of public accounting, I employ a collaborative approach to teamwork and demonstrate a strong sense of ownership in my work. Demonstrated success in delivering high-quality strategic solutions, adept at overcoming challenges and driving business growth.

Overview

6
6
years of professional experience

Work History

Premium Auditor

EXL Service
06.2023 - Current

Senior Accountant

Harlow's Casino Resort & Spa
12.2019 - 03.2023
  • Working in the hospitality and casino industry, provided accounting services for hotels, restaurants, and casino
  • Services included financial statement preparation, full cycle accounting, preparation of journal entries and adjusting journal entries, preparation and review of state, local, and federal tax returns (including filing and payment), preparation of gaming taxes, and preparing market share reports.
  • Prepared monthly journal entries and reconciliations.
  • Reconciled accounts and created documents for monthly closure procedures.
  • Reviewed documents and accounts for discrepancies and resolved variances.
  • Reconciled balance sheets and streamlined best practices for balance sheet processes.
  • Handled month-end and year-end end finances by managing and reporting fixed assets and other data.
  • Assisted in internal and external audits by preparing necessary documentation and responding to auditor inquiries.
  • Updated general ledger with latest entries.
  • Completed year-end closing processes with controllers and external auditors.
  • Analyzed financial statement discrepancies, identifying issues, and recommending corrective actions to prevent future occurrences.
  • Reduced errors in financial statements through stringent review procedures and regular reconciliation of accounts.
  • Provided timely and accurate financial reporting to senior management, enabling informed decision-making based on reliable data.
  • Maintained accurate depreciation schedules for fixed assets, coordinating with asset managers for timely recording of acquisitions or disposals.
  • Managed quarterly and annual tax filings for the company, ensuring timely submissions and compliance with regulations.
  • Successfully managed multiple high-stakes projects concurrently, consistently meeting deadlines while maintaining exceptional attention to detail and quality control.
  • Optimized month-end closing procedures by streamlining workflow processes, reducing time taken from 10 days to 5 days without compromising accuracy or detail level achieved.
  • Coordinated with various departments to gather financial data, ensuring accurate representation of each business unit''s performance.

Municipal Clerk

City of Indianola
09.2018 - 12.2019
  • Provided accounting services to city government in the effective management of city funds to ensure compliance with applicable state and local laws and ordinances
  • Services included financial statement preparation, full cycle accounting, preparation of journal entries and adjusting journal entries, preparation of docket to pay bills, reconciling balance sheet accounts, preparing annual budget, preparing board meeting agenda and minutes, and presenting financial results to city officials.
  • Oversaw election processes, including voter registration drives and coordination with poll workers on Election Day.
  • Ensured proper documentation was provided for every Council action taken, recording votes accurately during each session.
  • Assisted in the preparation of annual budgets, providing crucial support to financial decision making in the municipality.
  • Maintained an up-to-date database of ordinances, resolutions, and other important municipal documents for easy access by staff and citizens alike.
  • Actively participated in professional organizations, staying up-to-date on industry trends and best practices to further improve service delivery.
  • Improved municipal efficiency by implementing new digital record-keeping systems.
  • Enhanced community relations through timely and accurate communication of city council decisions.
  • Facilitated cooperation between city departments to improve overall performance and effectiveness in serving the public''s needs.
  • Coordinated with various departments to ensure seamless execution of city-wide events and programs.
  • Provided excellent customer service by addressing citizen concerns promptly and professionally at all times.
  • Managed sensitive information, maintaining confidentiality and adhering to strict legal requirements.
  • Served as the primary point of contact for elected officials, staff, and citizens regarding municipal matters.

Education

Master of Business Administration -

Delta State University
Cleveland, MS
12.2010

Master of Professional Accountancy -

Delta State University
Cleveland, MS
12.2009

B.S. in Accounting -

Mississippi Valley State University
Itta Bena, MS
05.2008

Skills

  • Yardi Systems and other accounting software
  • Financial Statement preparation and analysis
  • State, local, and federal tax preparation and review
  • SALT Experience
  • Exceptional oral and written communication
  • Outstanding leadership skills

Timeline

Premium Auditor

EXL Service
06.2023 - Current

Senior Accountant

Harlow's Casino Resort & Spa
12.2019 - 03.2023

Municipal Clerk

City of Indianola
09.2018 - 12.2019

Master of Business Administration -

Delta State University

Master of Professional Accountancy -

Delta State University

B.S. in Accounting -

Mississippi Valley State University
Lashanda Gholston-Harris