Menglu (Meryl) Cao, CPA, MSA
San Diego,CA
Summary
Accomplished Senior Accountant with over 10 years of experience in financial management and reporting within multi-entity corporations and public accounting. Proven track record of optimizing financial processes, enhancing internal controls, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Expert in general accounting processes, account reconciliation, financial reporting and analysis, and audit compliance. Adept at collaborating with stakeholders, driving process improvements, and managing complex projects. Proficient in Oracle, SAP, and Microsoft Excel, with a deep understanding of GAAP standards. Recognized for strong analytical skills, effective communication, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Accountant II
Axos Bank
08.2023 - Current
- Prepare and review month-end tasks for the $19 Billion loan portfolios, including complex journal entries, with meticulous attention to detail and adherence to GAAP standards.
- Conduct and review month-end account reconciliations across multi-entities for accuracy and completeness, ensuring timely resolution of discrepancies.
- Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to assess, develop and refine the Current Expected Credit Loss (CECL) qualitative overlays, ensuring accurate quarterly credit loss allowance.
- Compile detailed CECL memo, outlining qualitative model change in provision and process enhancements.
- Develop and ensure accuracy of deliverables for quarterly Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings (10-Q and 10-K), earnings calls, and board meetings.
- Manage preparation of deliverables for quarterly regulatory reporting schedules (Call Report and Y9C - filed with Federal Insurance Deposit Commission), ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
- Optimize month-end and quarter-end closing procedures through workflow streamlining and task automation, reducing closing time by 10%.
- Analyze financial statement variances, identifying root causes and recommending corrective actions to prevent recurrence, resulting in improved financial reporting accuracy.
- Evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls, making recommendations for necessary changes to enhance control environments.
- Support internal and external audits by preparing thorough documentation and responding promptly to auditor inquiries.
- Lead, train and mentor a team of junior accountants, providing guidance and fostering a culture of continuous improvement in efficiency and accuracy.
Senior Accountant
Meltzer Real Estate
09.2014 - 08.2023
- Managed Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable for a portfolio of 30 properties consisting of up to 500 units, ensuring accurate recording of financial transactions in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
- Reviewed and entered leases, ensuring compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and company policies.
- Processed month-end procedures including journal entries and account reconciliations, resulting in accurate financial reporting.
- Prepared monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports, providing comprehensive analysis of financial performance and key metrics.
- Collaborated with controller and external auditors to successfully complete year-end closing processes.
- Worked closely with Legal and Portfolio Acquisitions departments to ensure accurate reporting of acquisitions.
- Conducted comprehensive training sessions for Junior Staff Accountant and Interns, covering accounting principles, software systems, and best practices in the industry.
- Assisted in the preparation of annual budgets.
- Conducted comprehensive analysis of budget vs. actual variances to identify areas of improvement and cost-saving opportunities.
Staff Accountant
China Life Insurance Company Ltd
07.2013 - 06.2014
- Utilized the SAP system to monitor and track expense reimbursement applications, streamlining the process and improving efficiency.
- Reviewed monthly payroll worksheets, meticulously examining employee compensation details and identifying any discrepancies or errors.
- Processed monthly journal entries, accurately recording financial transactions and assisting in the preparation of financial statements.
- Assisted in the development and monitoring of monthly and annual budgets, providing valuable insights and contributing to effective financial planning and decision-making.
Education
Master of Science - Accounting
University of Illinois At Chicago
Chicago, IL05.2013
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration
Beijing Institute of Technology
Beijing06.2011
Skills
- Account Reconciliation
- General Ledger Management
- Financial Reporting and Analysis
- Regulatory Reporting and Compliance
- Expertise in Oracle, Microsoft Excel
- GAAP proficiency
Certification
- CPA - Certified Public Accountant
Timeline
Senior Accountant II
Axos Bank
08.2023 - Current
Senior Accountant
Meltzer Real Estate
09.2014 - 08.2023
Staff Accountant
China Life Insurance Company Ltd
07.2013 - 06.2014
Master of Science - Accounting
University of Illinois At Chicago
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration
Beijing Institute of Technology
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