LAURA MALESPIN
Miami
Summary
Dynamic finance professional with extensive experience at Florida International University, excelling in budget management and financial forecasting. Proven track record in leading teams and enhancing compliance auditing processes. Adept at utilizing Microsoft Excel for detailed variance analysis, driving strategic decision-making, and ensuring financial accuracy across multiple departments.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Director of Finance
Florida International University, College of Medicine
Miami
11.2019 - Current
- Planned and managed department budget for NHELP Program at College of Medicine.
- Reviewed monthly account reconciliations and journal entries to ensure general ledger accuracy.
- Developed financial forecasts to guide funding allocation and resource management.
- Created comprehensive reports for senior management on budgeting and variance analysis.
- Analyzed financial data to support strategic decision-making initiatives.
- Collaborated with department heads to align budgetary goals and priorities.
- Reviewed grant proposals for financial accuracy and feasibility.
- Prepared year-end tax reports for external auditor submission.
Financial Analyst 3
Florida International University, College of Medicine
Miami
01.2017 - 11.2019
- Conducted variance analysis to compare budgeted figures with actual results, facilitating informed management decisions.
- Developed financial models to forecast revenue and expense trends, aiding strategic planning.
- Prepared monthly financial statements and reports, presenting insights to senior management.
- Analyzed complex financial information to offer actionable recommendations that influenced decision-making.
- Trained junior analysts on effective financial reporting practices, improving overall team performance.
- Monitored expenditures to ensure alignment with university policies, supporting fiscal responsibility.
- Collaborated across departments to gather financial data for comprehensive reporting purposes.
- Reviewed financial documentation to ensure compliance with applicable laws and standards.
Operations Coordinator
Florida International University, College of Business
Miami
10.2012 - 01.2017
- Streamlined logistical support for Executive Director and Associate Director on MBA program operations.
- Created and analyzed financial reports for program activities, including recruitment events.
- Oversaw budget preparation through collection and summarization of fiscal activities.
- Managed procurement processes by reviewing vendor contracts and processing requisitions.
- Fostered partnerships with external vendors for collaborative departmental initiatives.
- Organized key program events like orientations and graduation galas effectively.
- Coordinated communication among faculty, staff, and student bodies for operational support.
- Implemented improved operational procedures, resulting in increased efficiency.
Coordinator of Administrative Services
Florida International University, College of Engineering
Miami
03.2008 - 10.2012
- Assisted Department Chairperson in implementing daily activities and managing departmental operations.
- Managed annual departmental budgets, preparing monthly account reconciliations and submitting quarterly variance reports.
- Maintained financial records, processed vouchers, and ensured timely fund expenditures.
- Contacted vendors for quotes, prepared purchase orders, and evaluated procurement terms.
- Reviewed contracts, regulations, and procedural guidelines to ensure compliance.
- Approved travel budgets for faculty and staff following University guidelines.
- Oversaw personnel hiring processes while liaising with Human Resources.
- Implemented office procedures that enhanced organizational efficiency.
Coordinator, Academic Support Services
Florida International University, College of Engineering
Miami
10.2005 - 03.2008
- Facilitated logistical and administrative functions for Florida Department of Transportation Construction Training and Qualification Program.
- Managed bookkeeping, inventory, and enrollment records to ensure accuracy.
- Developed and updated standard operating procedures to enhance operational efficiency.
- Maintained documentation for compliance and audit purposes.
- Collaborated with vendors to ensure timely delivery of supplies and services.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly while upholding University standards.
Education
MBA - Finance
Florida International University
Miami05.2016
BA - Economics
Florida International University
Miami08.2005
Skills
- Team leadership
- Account reconciliation
- Pressure management
- Financial planning, forecasting, reporting and analysis
- Microsoft Excel expertise
- Budget management
- Variance analysis
- Grant proposal review
- Compliance auditing
- Effective communication
- Financial policies
- Expense tracking
References
- Rachel Clarke, PhD, Florida International University, rclarke@fiu.edu, 305-297-3183
- Maria Sierra, Florida International University, sierram@fiu.edu, 306-610-1140
- Patricia Gunn, Florida International University, patriciagunn50@gmail.com, 954-444-0367
Languages
Spanish
Timeline
Assistant Director of Finance
Florida International University, College of Medicine
11.2019 - Current
Financial Analyst 3
Florida International University, College of Medicine
01.2017 - 11.2019
Operations Coordinator
Florida International University, College of Business
10.2012 - 01.2017
Coordinator of Administrative Services
Florida International University, College of Engineering
03.2008 - 10.2012
Coordinator, Academic Support Services
Florida International University, College of Engineering
10.2005 - 03.2008
MBA - Finance
Florida International University
BA - Economics
Florida International University