Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Melissa James

Joliet,IL

Summary

Dynamic finance professional with extensive experience at US Hose Corporation, excelling in cash flow management and staff development. Achieved a significant reduction in past due receivables by over $1M, while enhancing internal controls. Proven ability to prepare financial statements and foster collaboration across teams, driving operational efficiency and informed decision-making.

Overview

11
11
years of professional experience

Work History

Controller

US Hose Corporation
03.2023 - Current
  • Completed journal entries, reconciliations, and account analysis to prepare quarterly financial documents and general account management.
  • Provided treasury and cash management by overseeing reconciliation of banking activity, credit card processing, and sales tax returns.
  • Supervised accurate, efficient, and compliant completion of monthly financial reporting packages.
  • Mentored junior staff members, fostering a positive work environment conducive to professional growth and development.
  • Reduced month-end closing time by optimizing reconciliation procedures and improving collaboration between departments.
  • Provided insightful financial analysis to support executive team in making informed business decisions.
  • Increased cash flow by diligently managing accounts receivable and implementing effective collection strategies. Doing so decreased overall past due receivables by over $1M in less than 18 months.
  • Prepared detailed variance analyses on a monthly basis, enabling more effective tracking of actuals versus forecasted figures.
  • Established robust internal control framework, minimizing the risk of fraud and ensuring compliance with regulations.
  • Led cross-functional teams in process improvement initiatives, enhancing efficiency in financial operations.

Assistant Controller

US Hose Corporation
07.2022 - 03.2023
  • Ensured integrity of general ledger accounts through regular reconciliations, adjustments, and detailed documentation.
  • Facilitated cross-functional collaboration by partnering with other departments on special projects aimed at improving overall company performance.
  • Mentored junior team members in accounting best practices, fostering a positive work environment and professional development opportunities.
  • Managed accounts payable and receivable functions with a focus on timely payment processing while minimizing bad debt exposure.
  • Created ad-hoc reports for upper management to support decision making during critical business periods.
  • Implemented process improvements leading to increased productivity within the finance department.
  • Managed outstanding balance amounts by evaluating reports and determining collection statuses.
  • Managed daily financial functions in collaboration with accounting and payroll personnel.
  • Supervised accurate, efficient, and compliant completion of monthly financial reporting packages.

Staff Accountant & AP Supervisor

US Hose Corporation
12.2021 - 07.2022
  • Maintained general ledger accuracy through regular account reconciliations, journal entry adjustments, and transaction reviews.
  • Monitored accounts receivable, accounts payable and other account balances to track transactions, avoid discrepancies and maintain accuracy.
  • Prepared and processed journal entries to record in general ledger and maintain consistent documentation.
  • Managed accounts payable processing, ensuring timely payments to vendors while maximizing cash flow management strategies.
  • Assisted controller with year-end financial audits.
  • Created journal entry schedules to improve efficiency, support, and documentation of accounting processes.
  • Simplified invoicing process, reducing errors and improving turnaround time for accounts receivable.
  • Contributed to development of more robust internal control system, enhancing financial integrity and compliance.
  • Enhanced financial reporting accuracy by meticulously reconciling bank statements with ledger entries.
  • Facilitated better understanding of financial policies among non-finance staff through comprehensive training sessions.
  • Provided journal entries and performed accounting on accrual basis.
  • Tracked funds, prepared deposits and reconciled accounts.
  • Maintained integrity of general ledger and chart of accounts.
  • Reviewed accounts, resolved coding areas, and tracked recurring expenses for accrual entry.
  • Trained new employees on accounting principles and company procedures.
  • Compiled general ledger entries on short schedule with 100% accuracy.

Accounting Specialist/Treasury Coordinator

Brock Group
05.2021 - 10.2021
  • Supported month-end closing process by preparing journal entries, account reconciliations, and variance analysis reports.
  • Reconciled account information and reported figures in general ledger by comparing to bank account statement each month.
  • Improved financial accuracy by performing detailed account reconciliations and resolving discrepancies.
  • Leveraged advanced Excel skills to create dynamic financial models for decision-making purposes.
  • Streamlined accounting processes for efficiency, implementing automation tools and software solutions.

Senior Accounting Consultant

Robert Half
08.2018 - 05.2020
  • Evaluated client needs and expectations, establishing clear goals for each consulting engagement.
  • Identified areas of improvement for clients'' operations, implementing targeted solutions to increase productivity.
  • Streamlined internal processes to enhance team efficiency and improve overall project outcomes.
  • Designed tailored training programs for employees at various levels within the organization, boosting overall skillsets.
  • Enhanced client decision-making, synthesizing complex data into clear, concise reports and dashboards.
  • Facilitated workshops and training sessions for client staff, enhancing their skills and knowledge in key areas.

Various Accounting Projects & Stay at Home Mom

Various
01.2014 - 08.2018
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
  • Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
  • Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
  • Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
  • Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
  • Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Business With A Focus On Accounting

NewLane University
12-2025

Skills

  • Preparing financial statements
  • Cash flow management
  • Staff management
  • Financial forecasting
  • General ledger management & accounting
  • Budget preparation
  • Accounts receivable management
  • Budget administration
  • Internal controls development
  • Revenue recognition
  • Month-end and year-end closings

Timeline

Controller

US Hose Corporation
03.2023 - Current

Assistant Controller

US Hose Corporation
07.2022 - 03.2023

Staff Accountant & AP Supervisor

US Hose Corporation
12.2021 - 07.2022

Accounting Specialist/Treasury Coordinator

Brock Group
05.2021 - 10.2021

Senior Accounting Consultant

Robert Half
08.2018 - 05.2020

Various Accounting Projects & Stay at Home Mom

Various
01.2014 - 08.2018

Bachelor of Science - Business With A Focus On Accounting

NewLane University

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