Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Mary Stuart

Woodstock,VA

Summary

Well-qualified financial systems leader offering demonstrated skill and success in managing internal accounting processes, improving controls and strengthening systems for optimal performance. Proficient in all aspects of accounting, including accounts payable and receivable, budget administration, payroll and tax preparation. Experienced with managing grant financials and ensuring compliance. Knowledge of regulatory requirements and grant management best practices. Utilizes financial reporting and budget analysis to maintain accuracy. Gifted in building and leading solid teams to handle high-volume operations with consistency, accuracy and full compliance with regulatory requirements.

Overview

29
29
years of professional experience

Work History

Accounting Payroll and Tax Preparation

Self-Employed
02.2008 - Current
  • Provide comprehensive bookkeeping and tax preparation for a wide range of clients, including individuals and small businesses.
  • Ensure accuracy in financial records by managing accounts payable and receivable and reconciling statements promptly.
  • Prepare both direct and indirect tax documents as required.
  • Complete quarterly and annual tax filings, navigating complex regulatory requirements and supporting audits during reviews.
  • Work closely with clients to enhance financial procedures and identify potential tax savings.
  • Produce detailed financial reports to support strategic decisions while maintaining confidentiality.
  • Stay updated on changes in tax laws and accounting standards, consistently meeting deadlines and exceeding client expectations.
  • Oversee all payroll operations for private clients and organizations, maintaining accuracy, compliance, and timeliness.
  • Process payroll for various employee groups, reconcile payroll data, and maintain thorough records to meet legal and organizational requirements.
  • Demonstrate expertise in payroll-related tax filings, resolve discrepancies, and provide audit support.
  • Utilize payroll software and implement new technologies to streamline business operations.
  • Address issues, respond to inquiries, and deliver exceptional service to employees and stakeholders.
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.

Account Specialist

Shenandoah County Public Schools
02.2008 - 03.2025
  • Oversaw accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll activities.
  • Processed payments via check, credit card, and electronic funds transfer.
  • Received, handled, and reconciled account statements.
  • Prepared monthly financial statements and compiled reports for review.
  • Made and documented bank deposits.
  • Managed payroll processing and data tracking.
  • Assisted with tax payments and returns, collaborating with staff accountants as needed.
  • Helped prepare for annual audits and managed distribution of annual IRS forms.
  • Developed and managed program budgets, ensuring compliance with internal accounting procedures.
  • Maintained accurate records, including ledgers, journals, receipts, and invoices.
  • Prepared and processed both state and federal reimbursement claims.
  • Handled Free and Reduced Meal applications and completed monthly Direct Certification processes.
  • Submitted annual applications through VDOE for NSLP, SFSP, and SSO programs.
  • Demonstrated working knowledge of RDA, EFinance, PowerSchool, Café Enterprise, AESOP, Titan, and Meals software systems.
  • Created cost-effective menus compliant with nutrition guidelines and upheld all food safety regulations for preparation, storage, handling, and serving.
  • Provided food preparation and safety training to employees.
  • Worked collaboratively with other department managers to resolve operational issues.
  • Set employee schedules and managed hiring processes when required.
  • Regularly inspected facilities for cleanliness and maintenance, monitored work efficiency, and tracked attendance rates.
  • Developed and submitted product bid specifications, researched grant opportunities, and drafted grant proposals based on funding needs.
  • Researched and identified funding opportunities aligned with organizational goals, resulting in successful grant applications.
  • Maintained grant tracking and supported reporting requirements for awarded grants.
  • Completed administrative and other duties as required, fostering positive relationships with staff, parents, and the broader community.
  • Handled challenging situations with professionalism, tact, and diplomacy.

Bookkeeper – Tax Preparer

Blackwell Financial Services
01.1997 - 02.2008
  • Recorded and monitored financial transactions and details.
  • Prepared and filed financial documents.
  • Managed accounts payable and receivable processes.
  • Verified accounting data and reconciled company accounts.
  • Processed payroll and maintained payroll records.
  • Assisted with tax payments and returns.
  • Prepared and filed tax returns for individuals, corporations, and partnerships.
  • Analyzed financial information to determine tax liability.
  • Researched and interpreted tax laws and regulations, identifying opportunities for credits and deductions.
  • Prepared and reviewed estimated tax payments, responded to IRS inquiries and notices, and developed tax projections and forecasts.
  • Compiled and reviewed quarterly and year-end tax reports.
  • Supported clients with tax planning and compliance and built and maintained positive client relationships.
  • Kept up to date with changes in tax laws and regulations and provided timely tax advice and guidance to clients.

Education

High School Diploma -

Stonewall Jackson High School
Mount Jackson, VA
05.1988

Associate Degree - Accounting

Lord Fairfax Community College
Middletown, VA
05.1998

Skills

  • Proficient in QuickBooks
  • Knowledgeable in Microsoft applications
  • Skilled in Adobe software
  • Active PTIN holder
  • Advanced computer skills
  • Effective grant management
  • Budget preparation
  • Income tax preparation
  • Cloud-based accounting
  • Knowledge of SAP applications
  • Accounting for nonprofit organizations
  • Payroll administration
  • Sales tax management
  • Financial reporting expertise
  • Experienced in GAAP standards
  • Financial auditing
  • Inventory management
  • Audit compliance preparation

Timeline

Accounting Payroll and Tax Preparation

Self-Employed
02.2008 - Current

Account Specialist

Shenandoah County Public Schools
02.2008 - 03.2025

Bookkeeper – Tax Preparer

Blackwell Financial Services
01.1997 - 02.2008

High School Diploma -

Stonewall Jackson High School

Associate Degree - Accounting

Lord Fairfax Community College