Natalie Russell

Orange,CA

Summary

Professional finance leader with extensive expertise in financial management, reporting, and strategic planning. Exceptional at fostering team collaboration and driving organizational success through effective budgeting, forecasting, and compliance. Highly adaptable, with strong analytical skills and deep understanding of corporate finance principles. Known for reliability, integrity, and results-driven approach in dynamic environments.

Overview

years of professional experience

Work History

Controller / Accounting Manager

Grassfire

06.2016 - Current

Facilitated enhancement of internal communications among staff at all levels to foster a positive work environment.
Coordinated meetings and supported special projects as needed. Maintained confidentiality of sensitive information. Recorded meeting minutes and distributed materials effectively.
Cultivated robust relationships with stakeholders, including bank representatives and external auditors, serving as primary liaison.
Directed daily accounting operations, managing accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger, and cash flow.
Oversaw monitoring and analysis of accounting data for month-end close reconciliation and reporting processes.
Executed preparation of financial statements, including monthly, quarterly, and annual reports.
Established and enforced internal controls to protect company assets.
Oversaw office management to ensure seamless operations and support for diverse tasks and projects.
Organized and maintained files, reports, and essential corporate documents. Assisted in processing payroll and managing payroll records. Supported compliance with federal, state, and local tax regulations, as well as corporate health insurance and worker’s compensation policies.
Oversaw financial reporting processes to ensure compliance with GAAP and accuracy of financial statements.
Directed budgeting and forecasting initiatives to ensure alignment with departmental objectives and organizational strategy.
Established and enforced internal controls to strengthen financial integrity.
Optimized month-end closing procedures to enhance efficiency in financial reporting.
Guided finance team members in professional development and analytical skill enhancement.
Evaluated financial performance variances to deliver actionable insights for executive leadership.
Executed journal entry reconciliations and account analyses to ensure accuracy in quarterly financial documentation.
Compiled balance sheets, cash flow reports, and income statements to ensure accurate financial reporting.
Oversaw payroll data entry and processing for 60 employees, ensuring adherence to established company guidelines.
Oversaw treasury and cash management operations, ensuring accurate reconciliation of banking activities, credit card processing, and sales tax returns.
Oversaw accurate, efficient, and compliant execution of monthly financial reporting packages.
Engaged with delinquent accounts to secure outstanding payments and minimize aging balances.

CFO Interim/ Controller

AVT, Inc.

08.2001 - 06.2016

Established and executed internal controls to protect assets and inventory while preventing fraud.
Assisted in preparing accurate financial statements for 10Q and 10K filings. Supported monthly, quarterly, and annual closing processes. Aided in account reconciliations, inventory counts, bank reconciliations, and cost accounting activities.
Facilitated critical stages of initial public offerings (IPOs) to ensure successful market entry.
Cultivated and sustained positive relationships with investors through effective communication of financial performance.
Supported team members by supervising and mentoring five direct reports in accounting roles. Assisted in maintaining accuracy and efficiency across financial processes. Acted as primary contact for cross-functional collaboration among departments.
Directed strategic planning initiatives to execute growth plans focused on market product development and customer retention.
Assisted in maintaining compliance with financial regulations and accounting standards including GAAP, SEC, ASC 606, and IFRS. Supported tax compliance activities and facilitated audit processes.
Served as primary liaison for financial institutions, ensuring effective communication and timely access for external auditors.
Spearheaded development and management of budgets and financial forecasts.
Spearheaded financial strategy to align organizational goals with fiscal initiatives, driving profitability enhancements.
Directed budgeting processes, ensuring precise financial projections and optimal resource allocation.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Business Management, Minor: Accounting

American InterContinental University

Los Angeles, CA

Skills

Skilled in Microsoft Office Suite
Knowledge of auditing principles
Preparation of 10-Q and 10-K filings
Proficient in GAAP accounting principles
Effective organizational skills
Critical thinking expertise

QuickBooks Desktop and Online expertise
Detail-oriented accounting
Flexibility in evolving environments
Efficiently manage tasks in high-pressure situations
ERP system proficiency: NetSuite, Oracle

Timeline