Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Professional Highlights Aligned with This Role
Timeline
Hi, I’m

Paula Anderson

Blaine,MN

Summary

Strategic and hands-on Chief Financial Officer (CFO) with 20+ years of accounting and financial leadership experience, including over a decade in the construction industry. Proven track record in driving financial strategy, optimizing cash flow, improving systems, and leading high-performing teams. CPA-certified with expertise in budgeting, forecasting, audit compliance, and HR management. Passionate about building strong cross-functional relationships and delivering data-driven insights to support growth and operational excellence.

Knowledgeable CFO with strong background in financial leadership and strategic planning. Successfully led financial transformations and streamlined operations to enhance profitability. Demonstrated expertise in financial analysis and risk management.

Financial leader with strong track record in strategic planning, risk management, and financial analysis. Adept at driving financial growth through effective team collaboration and adaptive strategies. Known for reliability, flexibility, and results-driven approach. Skilled in budgeting, forecasting, and regulatory compliance, ensuring fiscal health and organizational success.

Top-notch CFO with proven track record of success leading and growing organizations. Strong background in strategic planning, financial management and team development. Skilled in identifying opportunities and implementing practical business strategies with commitment to staying informed about latest trends, technologies and best practices.

Overview

20
years of professional experience
1
Certification

Work History

ADVANTAGE CONSTRUCTION INC.

Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
01.2020 - Current

Job overview

  • Promoted to CFO based on record of strong financial stewardship and leadership in the construction industry.
  • Lead all day-to-day accounting operations, overseeing AP/AR, payroll, HR, and financial reporting.
  • Supervise and develop a collaborative, high-performing finance team by clarifying roles, providing training, and mentoring staff to achieve organizational goals.
  • Drive cross-functional communication and strengthen internal relationships to support an integrated approach to accounting and operations.
  • Develop and implement best practices, tools, and internal controls to ensure strong fiscal management while maintaining operational flexibility.
  • Manage cash flow planning and ensure sufficient liquidity to support operational and capital needs.
  • Oversee annual budgeting, forecasting, and strategic planning processes, ensuring alignment with business objectives.
  • Monitor financial performance, conduct variance analyses, and recommend corrective actions to meet or exceed targets.
  • Lead accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and year-end close processes, ensuring high-quality financial statements and reports.
  • Serve as primary liaison for annual financial audits, coordinating with external CPA firm for audit readiness and clean results.
  • Analyze company liabilities, evaluate capital structure, and manage banking relationships.
  • Oversee HR operations including payroll administration, benefits compliance, onboarding, and policy development.
  • Support compliance with federal, state, and local financial and HR requirements, adapting to changes in legislation.
  • Champion process improvements and system upgrades in QuickBooks, AccuLynx, and other financial tools to improve efficiency and data quality.
  • Work closely with ownership on strategic initiatives, risk management, and growth planning.
  • Key Achievements:
  • Successfully led company through multiple external audits with strong internal controls.
  • Improved cash flow forecasting accuracy and visibility for leadership team.
  • Built and maintained a dependable accounting team culture focused on accountability and service.
  • Streamlined AP/AR and payroll processes for greater efficiency and accuracy.

ADVANTAGE CONSTRUCTION INC.

Controller
11.2016 - 01.2020

Job overview

  • Completed journal entries, reconciliations, and account analysis to prepare quarterly financial documents and general account management.
  • Prepared balance sheets, cash flow reports and income statements.
  • Managed payroll data entry and processing for 60 employees to comply with predetermined company guidelines.
  • Mentored junior staff members, fostering a positive work environment conducive to professional growth and development.
  • Streamlined annual audit process, working closely with external auditors to ensure accurate representation of company''s financial position.
  • Led cross-functional teams in the implementation of new accounting software, improving overall efficiency within the finance department.
  • Facilitated successful external audits, meticulously preparing all necessary documents and reports.
  • Improved financial decision-making, providing executive team with detailed reports and analysis on financial performance.
  • Optimized tax filing processes, resulting in timely submissions and minimizing liabilities.
  • Oversaw management of payroll, ensuring accurate and timely processing for all employees.
  • Prepared and filed tax returns and generated monthly reports in compliance with regulatory and organizational standards.
  • Worked with both internal and external users to create detailed financial reports.

AGGATE CONSTRUCTION GROUP

Accounting Manager / Human Resources Manager
05.2015 - 11.2016

Job overview

  • Managed all accounting operations, including AP/AR, bank reconciliations, and monthly financial reporting.
  • Supervised accounts payable and receivable teams to ensure accuracy and timeliness.
  • Led recruiting, onboarding, and training for subcontractors and internal staff across a five-state area.
  • Addressed employee relations issues, conducted interviews, and managed termination processes.
  • Maintained and enforced internal documentation systems for accounting and HR policies.
  • Conducted budget analysis and provided reporting for senior leadership.
  • Oversaw quality control for client photo documentation requirements (500–1000 photos per work order).
  • Managed billing and invoicing processes for work orders, ensuring accuracy and client satisfaction.

LAPHAM-HICKEY STEEL

Human Resources Generalist / Accounting
11.2011 - 03.2015

Job overview

  • Administered benefits for 65 employees and supported HR policy development with senior management.
  • Processed salary changes, merit increases, bonuses, and weekly payroll.
  • Managed confidential personnel records and ensured HR compliance.
  • Handled AP/AR, bank reconciliations, and financial reporting in coordination with the corporate office.
  • Conducted recruiting, onboarding, new hire orientation, and background checks.
  • Addressed employee relations concerns to maintain a productive workplace environment.
  • Delivered financial analysis for capital investments, pricing decisions, and cost control.

CUTTING EDGE MIDWEST ABRASIVES

Office Manager
03.2009 - 06.2011

Job overview

  • Managed administrative operations, improving efficiency and accuracy.
  • Oversaw AP/AR and bookkeeping functions.
  • Supported CEO and sales team with scheduling, workflow, and travel arrangements.
  • Implemented databases and spreadsheets to improve inventory management and reporting accuracy.
  • Ensured a safe, secure, and well-maintained office environment.

SCAFFOLD SERVICE

Administrative Assistant
01.2007 - 02.2009

Job overview

  • Prepared invoices, financial statements, and documentation.
  • Managed phone communication, visitor reception, and meeting coordination.
  • Recorded minutes, handled correspondence, and maintained records systems.
  • Assisted with AP/AR and departmental budgeting.

CITIZENS FOR A SAFER MN

Executive Assistant
04.2005 - 01.2007

Job overview

  • Represented CEO professionally to clients, investors, and board members.
  • Managed travel, scheduling, and agendas.
  • Created donation database and supported media engagement.
  • Organized press conferences and handled financial and administrative documentation.
  • Improved operational workflows and reporting practices.

Education

Century College
White Bear Lake, MN

Associate of Science from Accounting And Finance

University Overview

Saint Catherine University
St. Paul, MN

Bachelor of Science from Accounting And Finance

University Overview

Skills

  • Financial analysis expertise
  • Cash flow analysis
  • Revenue projection
  • Audit compliance expertise
  • Team leadership and development
  • Cross-functional communication
  • Accounts payable and receivable management
  • Financial management in construction
  • Financial systems integration
  • Workflow improvement
  • Accounting software proficiency
  • Payroll processing software expertise
  • Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook
  • Construction Software proficiency
  • Strategic financial planning
  • Financial reporting
  • Financial management
  • Performance metrics analysis
  • Audit coordination
  • Financial policy creation
  • Mergers and acquisitions experience
  • Budget development
  • ERP system implementation
  • Corporate leadership
  • Financial process improvement
  • Change management expertise
  • Financial administration
  • Documentation requirements
  • Tax planning and strategy
  • Accounting principles
  • Executive recruitment
  • Public accounting
  • Profit and loss management
  • Human resources
  • Employee motivation and performance
  • Management team leadership
  • Balanced work ethic
  • Staff management
  • Intuit quickbooks
  • Systems organization
  • New business development
  • Quality control for photo documentation

Certification

  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • OSHA 30 Certified
  • Notary Public

Professional Highlights Aligned with This Role

Professional Highlights Aligned with This Role
  • 20+ years financial leadership including construction industry experience
  • Proven record leading accounting, AP/AR, HR, and payroll teams
  • Deep experience in cash flow management, forecasting, and budgeting
  • Track record of audit readiness and strong internal controls
  • Expertise in accounting systems (QuickBooks, AccuLynx, Sage)
  • CPA-certified with commitment to compliance and process improvement
  • Skilled at mentoring staff and building collaborative, effective teams

Timeline

Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
ADVANTAGE CONSTRUCTION INC.
01.2020 - Current
Controller
ADVANTAGE CONSTRUCTION INC.
11.2016 - 01.2020
Accounting Manager / Human Resources Manager
AGGATE CONSTRUCTION GROUP
05.2015 - 11.2016
Human Resources Generalist / Accounting
LAPHAM-HICKEY STEEL
11.2011 - 03.2015
Office Manager
CUTTING EDGE MIDWEST ABRASIVES
03.2009 - 06.2011
Administrative Assistant
SCAFFOLD SERVICE
01.2007 - 02.2009
Executive Assistant
CITIZENS FOR A SAFER MN
04.2005 - 01.2007
Century College
Associate of Science from Accounting And Finance
Saint Catherine University
Bachelor of Science from Accounting And Finance

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Paula Anderson