Rachelle Barrera
Chula Vista,CA
Summary
Detail-oriented Acting Finance Director with extensive experience in audit coordination and financial systems implementation. Recognized for mentoring teams and streamlining processes to optimize resource management and enhance transparency across departments.
Accomplished Finance Manager with expertise in financial reporting, cash flow management, and risk assessment. Proven ability to enhance operational efficiency and ensure compliance, driving improved financial outcomes.
Results-oriented achiever with proven ability to exceed targets and drive success in fast-paced environments. Combines strategic thinking with hands-on experience to deliver impactful solutions and enhance organizational performance. Experienced leader with strong background in guiding teams, managing complex projects, and achieving strategic objectives. Excels in developing efficient processes, ensuring high standards, and aligning efforts with organizational goals. Known for collaborative approach and commitment to excellence.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Acting Finance Director
City of National City
National City, CA
01.2026 - Current
- Analyzed departmental budgets for compliance with city financial policies and regulations.
- Prepare financial reports, ensuring accuracy and timely submission to stakeholders. Reports include but not limited to transmittal reporting, quarterly expenditure detail export.
- Collaborated with department heads to identify funding needs and optimize expenditure strategies.
- Streamlined reporting processes, enhancing transparency of financial operations across departments.
- Facilitated process improvements by automating manual tasks, increasing efficiency within the finance function.
- Coordinated training sessions for staff on updated financial management software and practices.
- Engaged in risk assessment initiatives to safeguard city assets against fiscal challenges.
- Prepare cost analysis in preparation for ratification of MOU agreements.
- Review and assess contract language.
- Review general ledger for accuracy; including but not limited to revenues, expenditures, liabilities, assets, fund, internal services funds, capital assets, enterprise, and proprietary funds.
Finance Manager
City of National City
National City, CA
11.2020 - Current
- Lead financial planning and analysis initiatives to optimize budget allocation and resource management.
- Increased team communication effectiveness through active participation in pre-and post-operation briefings, ensuring all personnel were informed of essential details about each procedure.
- Oversee audit processes, ensuring compliance with municipal regulations and enhancing transparency.
- Implemented process improvements that reduced reporting errors and increased operational efficiency.
- Mentored junior finance staff, fostering professional growth and improving team performance.
- Collaborated with department heads to align financial strategies with organizational goals and objectives.
- Established key performance indicators to measure financial performance against strategic targets effectively.
- Reviewed documentation and identified financial discrepancies where applicable.
- Streamlined month-end close process, reducing time spent on manual tasks and improving data accuracy.
- Ensure compliance with local, state, federal tax regulations; timely filing of all required documents, mitigating potential penalties or fines.
- Mentored junior finance staff, fostering professional development and strong team dynamics.
- Review and approve invoices and contact appropriate parties for timely payment receipt.
- Train new and existing staff members in various financial procedures to prepare for job requirements.
- Optimized cash flow with diligent monitoring of accounts receivable and payable.
- Monitored budget and revenue trends, compiling reports for company leadership to inform decision-making.
- Strengthened internal controls through regular audits and adherence to regulatory requirements.
- Increased financial efficiency by streamlining and automating financial reporting processes.
- Develop comprehensive financial reports for executive decision-making support.
- Execute vendor setup and payment, administration of bank accounts and account reconciliations.
- Implemented risk management strategies to protect company assets and minimize losses.
- Managed multimillion-dollar budgets, ensuring accurate allocation across departments.
- Streamlined internal audit process, enhancing efficiency and reducing discrepancies.
- Enhance financial reporting accuracy by implementing advanced software solutions such as Tyler MUNIS Financials, leading to more informed decision-making processes.
- Conducted comprehensive risk assessments to safeguard assets and ensure regulatory compliance.
- Fostered culture of continuous improvement by training team members on financial best practices and software enhancements.
- Oversee successful integration of financial systems post-merger, ensuring seamless transition for all stakeholders.
- Coordinated with external auditors to ensure smooth and compliant audit process each fiscal year.
- Delivered comprehensive financial training programs for non-finance managers, enhancing cross-functional understanding and collaboration.
- Managed audit processes, ensuring timely completion and adherence to regulatory standards.
- Enhanced team productivity by providing comprehensive training sessions and performance evaluations for staff members.
- Managed personnel by providing guidance, support, and performance evaluations to ensure a productive workforce.
- Provided thoughtful guidance to personnel in navigating and resolving snags in productivity.
- Managed personnel-related issues such as hiring, training, scheduling, performance evaluations, and disciplinary actions to maintain a high-performing pharmacy workforce.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations, providing constructive feedback to support employee development and growth.
- Streamlined communication between field personnel, management teams, clients, suppliers, inspectors as necessary for successful project execution.
- Streamlined administrative processes related to course scheduling, resource allocation, and personnel assignments for greater efficiency within the organization.
- Strengthened team cohesion and productivity through regular performance evaluations, feedback sessions, and training programs.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations of staff members, providing constructive feedback on areas of strength as well as opportunities for growth improvement.
- Assisted in budget preparation by tracking expenditures related to operations and personnel costs.
- Conducted thorough evaluations of personnel, identifying areas for improvement and growth opportunities.
- Worked with other personnel to create and improve support processes.
- Manage Business LIcense Program.
Senior Accountant
City of Chula Vista
Chula Vista, CA
11.2019 - 11.2020
- Led financial reporting processes, ensuring compliance with government regulations and accounting standards.
- Supervised monthly reconciliations, enhancing accuracy in financial statements and budget forecasts.
- Developed and implemented internal controls to streamline accounting operations and mitigate risks.
- Implemented tracking systems for grant expenditures, enhancing financial oversight and reporting accuracy.
- Led training sessions for staff on grant management best practices to promote consistency and knowledge sharing.
- Evaluated program impact through comprehensive reporting, driving strategic improvements based on data analysis and stakeholder input.
- Ensured financial accountability by monitoring grant spending and providing regular budget updates to stakeholders.
- Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions, and make decisions.
- Completed paperwork, recognizing discrepancies, and promptly addressing for resolution.
- Adaptable individual with exceptional interpersonal skills and talent for building relationships. Known for delivering outstanding service and enhancing client satisfaction. Focused on fostering positive interactions and creating collaborative environment.
Acting Finance Manager
City of Chula Vista
Chula Vista, CA
03.2019 - 11.2019
- Supervised finance team in daily operations, ensuring adherence to policies and procedures.
- Mentored junior staff in financial analysis methodologies, fostering skill development and knowledge transfer.
- Improved stakeholder confidence with detailed financial analysis and transparent communication.
- Developed strategic plans for day-to-day financial operations.
- Checked payroll, vendor payments, commissions and other accounting disbursements for accuracy and compliance.
- Prepared cash flow projections, cost analysis and monthly, quarterly and annual reports.
- Prepared internal and regulatory financial reports, balance sheets and income statements.
- Established internal audit procedures to validate and improve accuracy of financial reporting.
- Complied with established internal controls and policies.
- Utilized financial software to prepare consolidated financial statements.
- Supported financial director with special projects and additional job duties.
- Evaluated and negotiated contracts to procure favorable financial terms.
- Performed banking, business administration and financial tasks to guarantee five-star service for clients.
- Implemented and regularly reviewed financial controls to generate accurate and reliable financial data.
- Developed project plans, timelines, and resource allocations to optimize workflow efficiency.
- Facilitated stakeholder meetings to gather requirements and ensure alignment on project objectives.
- Utilized project management software to track progress, manage tasks, and report statuses effectively.
- Successfully managed multiple projects simultaneously by prioritizing tasks according to urgency, resource availability, and alignment with organizational goals.
- Supervised daily operations, ensuring adherence to company policies and safety standards.
- Mentored team members, enhancing their performance and promoting skill development.
- Collaborated with management to develop strategic initiatives for operational improvements.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations, providing constructive feedback to enhance team effectiveness.
- Managed inventory control systems, ensuring optimal stock levels and minimizing waste.
- Oversaw daily operations of the department, ensuring smooth workflow and timely completion of tasks.
- Applied strong leadership talents and problem-solving skills to maintain team efficiency and organize workflows.
- Improved customer satisfaction with timely response to inquiries, addressing concerns, and finding effective solutions.
- Increased team productivity by implementing efficient workflows and setting clear expectations for staff members.
- Enhanced communication within the team by holding regular meetings and encouraging open dialogue among all members.
- Demonstrated commitment to the organization''s core values, leading by example and fostering a culture of excellence.
- Collaborated with other departments to achieve organizational goals, fostering teamwork across various functions.
- Mentored junior staff members in their career development, sharing knowledge from years of experience in the field.
- Reduced employee turnover by fostering a positive work environment and providing ongoing feedback to staff members.
Accountant and Senior Accountant (Underfill)
City of Chula Vista
Chula Vista, CA
12.2016 - 03.2019
- Prepared and analyzed financial statements to ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
- Managed budgetary processes, identifying variances and implementing corrective measures.
- Streamlined accounts payable and receivable workflows to enhance operational efficiency.
- Led audits by coordinating with external auditors and preparing necessary documentation.
- Mentored junior accountants, fostering skills in financial reporting and analysis.
- Conducted training sessions on accounting software for departmental staff, improving system utilization.
- Handled day-to-day accounting processes to drive financial accuracy.
- Reconciled accounts and reviewed expense data, net worth, and assets.
- Gathered financial information, prepared documents, and closed books.
- Used advanced software to prepare documents, reports, and presentations.
- Completed daily cash functions like account tracking, payroll and wage allocations, budgeting, donating, and cash, and banking reconciliations.
- Streamlined month-end closing processes, resulting in reduced time spent on financial reporting tasks.
- Assisted in reducing outstanding accounts receivable balances by diligently following up on overdue invoices.
- Collaborated with external auditors during the annual audit process to provide necessary documentation and address any concerns or findings promptly.
- Maintained accurate records of fixed assets, including acquisition costs, depreciation schedules, and current values for insurance purposes.
- Prepared and filed tax forms to meet needs of customers.
- Detected and corrected mistakes early on and implemented systems to avoid recurring issues.
- Improved financial reporting accuracy through meticulous data analysis and reconciliation efforts.
- Conducted performance evaluations for staff members, identifying areas of improvement and guiding professional development plans.
- Identified operational inefficiencies and implemented corrective measures to increase effectiveness.
- Fostered culture of continuous improvement, encouraging team to suggest and implement process enhancements.
- Enhanced operational workflow, identifying and eliminating bottlenecks in daily procedures.
Accounting Tech./Accountant Payroll Supervisor
City of Chula Vista
Chula Vista
07.2006 - 12.2016
- Processed financial transactions, ensuring accuracy and compliance with municipal regulations.
- Prepared and maintained accurate financial records using accounting software systems.
- Reconciled accounts payable and receivable to maintain accurate financial standings.
- Processed financial transactions accurately and efficiently using municipal accounting software.
- Reconciled accounts to ensure consistency and accuracy in financial reporting.
- Assisted in preparing budget reports and financial statements for departmental review.
- Implemented improvements in data entry processes, enhancing overall workflow efficiency.
- Trained new staff on accounting policies and software usage to ensure compliance and accuracy.
- Collaborated with city departments to resolve discrepancies in financial records promptly.
- Conducted regular audits of financial documents to maintain integrity of city funds.
- Developed procedural documentation for accounting processes, promoting standardization across teams.
- Enhanced financial accuracy by diligently reconciling accounts, identifying discrepancies, and resolving issues promptly.
- Completed bi-weekly payroll for company employees.
- Supported smooth payroll administration through diligent record-keeping, proper deductions calculation, and prompt issue resolution.
- Contributed to successful audits with comprehensive preparation of supporting documentation and effective communication with external auditors.
- Organized general ledger with accuracy and within time constraints.
- Increased team productivity by providing ongoing training and support for accounting staff members.
- Enhanced vendor relationships by managing accounts payable efficiently, negotiating favorable terms when possible, and ensuring timely payments.
- Reconciled account information and reported figures in general ledger by comparing to bank account statement each month.
- Ensured data integrity in financial systems through regular audits, system updates, and adherence to internal control policies.
- Streamlined accounting processes by implementing efficient software solutions and organizational methods.
- Improved cash handling practices across the organization with strict adherence to internal control policies and regular staff training sessions on best practices.
- Entered figures using 10-key calculator to compute data quickly.
- Reduced financial discrepancies by conducting thorough monthly reconciliations of bank statements.
- Improved financial data integrity, conducting regular reviews and updates of accounting records.
- Enhanced team productivity by leading training sessions on new accounting software and procedures.
- Managed tax preparation tasks, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.
- Enhanced efficiency in payroll processing, consistently ensuring timely and accurate employee payments.
- Led successful project completions under tight deadlines, coordinating effectively across multiple teams.
Accounting Technician Accounts Payable
City of Chula Vista
Chula Vista, CA
07.2005 - 07.2006
- Processed accounts payable and receivable transactions accurately and efficiently.
- Reconciled monthly financial statements, ensuring consistency and adherence to policies.
- Prepared detailed financial reports for management review, supporting decision-making processes.
- Implemented improvements in accounting procedures, enhancing workflow efficiency and accuracy.
- Mentored junior staff on best practices in bookkeeping and compliance standards.
- Liaised with external auditors during annual audits, facilitating transparency and accountability.
- Utilized advanced accounting software to streamline data entry and reporting tasks effectively.
- Reduced errors in financial reporting through meticulous attention to detail and thorough review of financial statements.
- Coordinated with cross-functional teams to address and resolve any discrepancies in billing or payments.
- Strengthened financial accuracy by meticulously maintaining all accounts payable and receivable.
- Managed fixed asset accounting functions, ensuring compliance with GAAP standards.
- Conducted regular audits of fixed asset records to verify accuracy and completeness.
- Analyzed depreciation methods to optimize financial performance and reporting accuracy.
Accounting Assistant Accounts Payable
City of Chula Vista
Chula Vista, CA
07.2003 - 07.2005
- Processed invoices and expense reports ensuring adherence to city budget guidelines.
- Managed vendor communications, resolving discrepancies and facilitating timely payments.
- Maintained financial records using municipal accounting software for accurate reporting.
- Coordinated audits by compiling necessary documentation and supporting materials for review.
- Streamlined procurement processes, reducing lead times and increasing productivity.
- Implemented feedback mechanisms to address vendor issues promptly and effectively.
- Answered questions and assisted customers with item selection and location.
- Strengthened vendor relationships by maintaining open communication and promptly addressing any concerns or issues.
- Collaborated with purchasing department to reconcile order discrepancies, ensuring accurate payment processing for suppliers.
- Managed timely and accurate payment processing for payroll, vendor invoices, and tax obligations, ensuring fiscal responsibility.
- Resolved discrepancies between invoices received from vendors and actual shipment contents to ensure accurate payment processing.
- Effectively assisted in the coordination of client billing activities to ensure prompt payment processing.
- 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.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
- Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
Customer Service Representative
City of Chula Vista
Chula Vista
09.2001 - 07.2003
- Resolved customer inquiries through effective communication and problem-solving techniques.
- Managed multiple phone lines, ensuring timely response to all customer requests.
- Conducted follow-ups on unresolved issues, ensuring customer satisfaction and loyalty.
- Implemented improved processes to enhance service delivery and reduce wait times.
- Trained new staff on customer service protocols and best practices for efficiency.
- Processed legal filings and ensured compliance with procedural requirements.
- Managed court records and documentation with precision and attention to detail.
- Trained new staff on operational procedures and court policies.
- Facilitated the preparation of trial exhibits and other materials for hearings.
- Processed high volumes of payment transactions accurately and efficiently.
- Monitored transaction discrepancies, investigating and resolving issues promptly.
- Trained new staff on payment processing systems and procedures.
- Implemented quality control measures to enhance transaction accuracy.
- Collaborated with finance team to improve payment reconciliation processes.
- Maintained high standards of integrity by consistently following appropriate cash handling procedures.
- Trained new employees on proper procedures, cash handling, and customer service standards.
- Ensured accurate cash handling, balancing drawer daily, and minimizing discrepancies.
- Efficiently processed transactions, including cash handling and inventory control tasks, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness, and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
- Strengthened communication skills through regular interactions with others.
- Provided assistance to the public regarding parking rules and facility locations, enhancing customer service experience.
- Facilitated interdepartmental collaboration between Parking Services staff members and other city departments to improve overall service quality.
- Maintained accurate records of issued citations, warnings, and towing orders for proper documentation and follow-up actions.
- Promoted excellent customer service through polite interactions with the public while enforcing parking regulations fairly and consistently.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration And Management
University of Phoenix
San Diego, CABachelor of Science - Management And Accounting
University of Phoenix
San Diego, CA06-2015
High School Diploma -
Sweetwater Highschool
National City, CA06-1995
No Degree - Catholic Education And Confirmation
St. Marys Catechetical Education
National City, CA05-1993
Skills
- Financial reporting and analysis
- Audit coordination
- Account analysis
- Tax planning and compliance
- General ledger entry
- Debt management
- Organizational skills
- Financial strategy development
- General ledger accounting
- Business process improvement
- Account reconciliation
- Cash flow management
- Compliance monitoring
- Risk management
- Financial systems implementation
- Revenue recognition
- Internal controls implementation
- Investment management
- Reporting
- Cross-functional team leadership
- ERP system management
- Internal controls management
- Recruitment and hiring
- Operational reporting
- Attention to detail
- Customer relationship development
- Proficient in Integrated Financial Accounting System (IFAS), EDEN, Tyler MUNIS Financials & Human Capital Management (HCM) Payroll/Human Resources Software Programs
- Collections actions
- Cash handling expertise
- Willing to learn
- Teamwork
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Customer service
- Problem-solving
- Time management
- Multitasking
- Reliability
- Excellent communication
- Critical thinking
- Active listening
- Effective communication
Accomplishments
- Project Manager, Lead, Subject Matter Expert in the implementation of Tyler MUNIS Financials and Human Capital Management (HCM) with the City of Chula Vista 2017-2019 and City of National City 2022-Present.
- Supervise teams ranging between 1-16 staff members in career.
- Collaborated with team of 1-20 in the implementation of Tyler MUNIS Financials and Human Capital Management Payroll/Human Resources.
- Used Microsoft Products to develop and streamline tasks.
Timeline
Acting Finance Director
City of National City
01.2026 - Current
Finance Manager
City of National City
11.2020 - Current
Senior Accountant
City of Chula Vista
11.2019 - 11.2020
Acting Finance Manager
City of Chula Vista
03.2019 - 11.2019
Accountant and Senior Accountant (Underfill)
City of Chula Vista
12.2016 - 03.2019
Accounting Tech./Accountant Payroll Supervisor
City of Chula Vista
07.2006 - 12.2016
Accounting Technician Accounts Payable
City of Chula Vista
07.2005 - 07.2006
Accounting Assistant Accounts Payable
City of Chula Vista
07.2003 - 07.2005
Customer Service Representative
City of Chula Vista
09.2001 - 07.2003
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration And Management
University of Phoenix
Bachelor of Science - Management And Accounting
University of Phoenix
High School Diploma -
Sweetwater Highschool
No Degree - Catholic Education And Confirmation
St. Marys Catechetical Education