Shena Kernstock
Bay City
Summary
Dynamic professional with extensive experience in tax preparation, financial analysis, and client management. Skilled in identifying tax-saving opportunities and enhancing operational efficiency through effective communication. Committed to applying a diverse skill set to improve financial processes in a small business setting.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Tax Preparation Specialist
Dijak Accounting
Bay City
01.2015 - Current
- Prepared complex tax returns for individuals and businesses using Drake Tax software, ensuring accuracy and thoroughness.
- Analyzed financial records to identify potential deductions and credits that could be applied to reduce taxable income.
- Collaborated with clients to collect essential information, enabling timely tax filings.
- Organized client information and documentation to ensure quick access for future reference.
Regional Commercial Lending Assistant
Independent Bank
Bay City
08.2013 - 11.2020
- Assisted loan officers in compiling and preparing commercial loan documentation.
- Monitored loan progress from application to closing, keeping all parties informed.
- Coordinated communication between clients and lending teams effectively.
- Monitored purchase loans for due diligence, financed contingency, and closing date expiration, tracking refinance pipeline to ensure timely processing.
- Reviewed and approved draw requests from customers, ensuring compliance with established bank policies to mitigate risk.
- Identified areas for process improvement within the commercial lending department in order to increase efficiency levels.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge and compliance with internal policies and procedures and verified adherence to state and federal laws, rules and regulations affecting loan institutions.
- Planned and led training programs on staff development to enhance employee knowledge, engagement, satisfaction and performance.
Business Development Manager
Starmaker Designs
Bay City
10.2011 - 09.2013
- Managed database of existing customers and prospective leads to support targeted outreach.
- Conducted market research to identify new business opportunities and trends.
- Attended tradeshows and conferences to network with potential clients.
- Communicated with clients to clarify product specifications and delivery timelines.
- Developed targeted email campaigns for diverse customer segments.
- Utilized CRM software to manage all customer data and orders.
- Conducted usability tests on websites for optimal performance and user experience.
Education
Bachelors - Business Administration/Banking & Finance
Northwood University
Midland, Michigan01-2011
Associates - Business Arts
Delta College
University Center, MI01-2007
Skills
- Tax law knowledge
- Tax software expertise
- Financial analysis
- Accounts Payable & Receivable
- Risk reduction through due diligence
- Spreadsheet management
- Attention to detail
- Banking & lending experience
- Customer Relationship management
- Tracking, reporting, and servicing accounts
- Process improvement
- Analytical thinking
- Problem solving
- Communication Skills
- Team collaboration
- Financial analysis
- Organizational Skills
- Microsoft Office proficient
- Quickbooks experience
- Office administration & coordination
Accomplishments
- Commissioned Notary Public for the State of MI
- Former Ambassador for the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce
- 2018 Ambassador Team of the Year award recipient
- Graduate of Leadership Bay County's Class of 2017 (#takeaseat)
- Peer Mentor & Advisor for the LBC class of 2018
- Former active member of multiple community boards and committees
- Duel recipient - 1st in Banking and Finance, Regional Comp, Business Professionals of America
References
Available upon request
Timeline
Tax Preparation Specialist
Dijak Accounting
01.2015 - Current
Regional Commercial Lending Assistant
Independent Bank
08.2013 - 11.2020
Business Development Manager
Starmaker Designs
10.2011 - 09.2013
Bachelors - Business Administration/Banking & Finance
Northwood University
Associates - Business Arts
Delta College