Latoya Parkes
Riverview,FL
Summary
A qualified accountant with demonstrable experience in positions of high responsibility and confidentiality, possessing a deep desire to succeed and to make a difference. A strong and effective communicator and relationship builder with a passion for people, providing the required level of leadership and guidance needed to ensure that best practice is always followed. One of the greatest strengths is the ability to meet all financial reporting deadlines and to ensure the highest levels of financial integrity in management reporting. Cost focused with a history of coming up with innovative ways to add value and reduce costs within the Finance Department and Companywide.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
Work History
Corporate Analyst (Contract)
GraceKennedy Limited
10.2021 - 04.2024
- Prepared monthly Group P&L, ROE, Cash Flow variance reports for Group Chief Financial Officer (CFO).
- Assisted in the preparation of quarterly and year-end consolidated accounts including updating of schedules, variance analysis and disclosure notes
- Prepared Group budget documents, including schedules for P&L, ROE, Cash Flow, Capital Expenditure, variance analysis and presentations.
- Analyzed and reviewed financial performance of Group companies and various cost tracking of Group overheads.
- Assisted in the successful integration of acquired companies by harmonizing accounting practices and consolidating financial records.
- Reviewed documents and data to give accurate presentations and forecasts to upper management.
- Supported Group Comptroller with special projects and additional job duties.
Assistant Finance Manager (Full Time)
Management Control Systems Limited
01.2020 - 10.2021
- Ensured timely completion of month-end closing procedures for accurate financial statements.
- Managed cash flow effectively through vigilant monitoring of incoming revenue streams and outgoing payments schedules.
- Led successful audits by maintaining organized records and providing clear communication with external auditors.
- Mentored junior finance staff members, fostering environment of continuous learning and professional development.
- Assisted with recruiting, interviewing, and hiring new department employees.
- Oversaw all aspects of month-end close process, ensuring timely completion of accurate financial statements for executive review.
- Maintained strong relationships with external auditors, facilitating smooth annual audit processes and addressing any concerns promptly.
- Prepared balance sheets, cash flow reports and income statements.
- Followed up with delinquent accounts to obtain funds and reduce aging balances.
Financial Analyst (Mar 2015 – Dec 2019); Accounting Officer (Mar 2013 - Feb 2015)
Massy Gas Products (Jamaica) Limited
03.2013 - 12.2019
- Facilitated smooth month-end close processes by efficiently reconciling accounts and addressing discrepancies promptly.
- Supported executive decision-making by providing data-driven insights on revenue trends and cost drivers.
- Achieved significant cost savings by identifying financial inefficiencies and implementing improved processes which led to reduction of expenses by 10% year over year
- Collected data from other divisions to support quarterly forecasts.
- Improved efficiency of accounts payable and receivable processes, resulting in faster payment collection and vendor payments.
- Collaborated with external auditors during annual audits, providing accurate documentation for efficient review process.
- Managed cash flow effectively, ensuring sufficient funds were available to meet operational needs while optimizing investment opportunities.
- Maintained compliance with regulatory requirements by staying up-to-date on changing tax laws and filing deadlines.
- Developed strong relationships with vendors and clients to maintain timely payments while negotiating favorable terms.
- Provided guidance to junior staff members on accounting best practices and fostering culture of continuous improvement within team.
- Prepared accurate financial reports for management review, enabling informed decision-making.
- Conducted variance analysis comparing actual results against budgets, identifying potential issues early for management intervention.
- Implemented cost-saving measures through careful analysis of expenditures and identification of areas for improvement.
- Streamlined month-end closing procedures, reducing time spent on manual tasks and increasing accuracy.
- Supervised accounting department operations and team of up to 3 employees.
- Participated in cross-functional projects, utilizing accounting expertise to provide insights on cost management.
- Maintained integrity of general ledger and chart of accounts.
- Kept up-to-date with tax changes and industry trends by participating in professional organizations, opportunities, and networks.
Payroll and Accounting Officer (Jan-Feb 2013); Junior Accountant (2007-2012); Senior Accounting Clerk (2006-2007); Accounting Clerk (2003-2006)
Massy Distribution (Jamaica) Limited
08.2003 - 01.2013
- Assisted with budget preparation and monitoring, ensuring alignment with company goals and objectives.
- Maintained compliance with regulatory requirements by staying up-to-date on changing tax laws and filing deadlines.
- Collaborated with external auditors during annual audits, providing accurate documentation for efficient review process.
- Contributed to successful implementation of new payroll accounting software system, leading to increased efficiency in daily operations.
- Managed payroll operations for 300 employees.
- Calculated salesperson commissions based on established parameters.
- Trained new employees on accounting principles and company procedures.
Education
Professional Qualification - Accounting And Finance
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)
London, Engand08.2015
Professional Qualification - Association of Accounting Technicians
B&B Institute of Business
St. Andrew, Jamaica07.2003
Certificate in Personnel Administration - Human Resources
University of The West Indies School of Continuing
St. Andrew, Jamaica07.1998
High School Diploma -
St. Jago High School
St. Catherine, Jamaica07.1991
Skills
- Financial Reporting and Analysis
- Managing External Audits
- Audited Financial Statements
- Budgeting and Forecasting
- Treasury and Cash Management
- Payroll Management
- General Taxation
- Cost Management
- Development of Policies and Procedures
Activities
- Co-chair of the Cost Control Committee, member of the Credit Committee and Governance Committee – Massy Gas Products
- Volunteer for various Corporate and Social Responsibility Projects
- Champion for Continuous Improvement Projects and Initiatives
- Treasurer of the Executive Committee – Portmore Missionary Preparatory School PTA (2015 – 2019)
Professional
- ACCA Fellow
- ICAJ Fellow
Awards
- Certificate of Recognition for Outstanding Contribution - 2017
- Employee Choice Award for Outstanding Achievement – 2017
- Certificate of Appreciation and Recognition for Noteworthy Contribution - 2018
- Values Champion Award for Demonstrating the Massy Values - 2018
References
Available on request
Timeline
Corporate Analyst (Contract)
GraceKennedy Limited
10.2021 - 04.2024
Assistant Finance Manager (Full Time)
Management Control Systems Limited
01.2020 - 10.2021
Financial Analyst (Mar 2015 – Dec 2019); Accounting Officer (Mar 2013 - Feb 2015)
Massy Gas Products (Jamaica) Limited
03.2013 - 12.2019
Payroll and Accounting Officer (Jan-Feb 2013); Junior Accountant (2007-2012); Senior Accounting Clerk (2006-2007); Accounting Clerk (2003-2006)
Massy Distribution (Jamaica) Limited
08.2003 - 01.2013
Professional Qualification - Accounting And Finance
The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)
Professional Qualification - Association of Accounting Technicians
B&B Institute of Business
Certificate in Personnel Administration - Human Resources
University of The West Indies School of Continuing
High School Diploma -
St. Jago High School
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