SONYA ASHTO N
Jacksonville
Summary
Skilled in managing accounts receivable and implementing process improvements. Familiar with analyzing financial data, reducing outstanding receivables, and increasing department efficiency. Strengths include accuracy, problem-solving, and understanding of accounting principles. Proven track record of improving cash flow management in previous roles.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Sr. Payroll Analyst - Contracted
Fanatics, Inc.
08.2025 - Current
- Handling payroll transaction errors and implementing corrective actions for direct deposits and Wisely Pay cards
- Preparing and delivering weekly and monthly payroll financial reports for the corporate finance team
- Overseeing the administration and maintenance of Wisely Pay cards for staff
- Guiding employees and supervisors in configuring payment methods within Oracle
- Identifying and addressing payroll and credit anomalies to ensure accurate payment
- Developing and documenting standard operating procedures (SOPs) for payroll processes
- Partnering with cross-functional teams to develop comprehensive training materials
- Collaborating on special projects for overpayments, stale dated checks, and escheatment reporting
- Executing adjustments to maintain accurate financial or payroll records
- Other special projects and assignments as needed
Vice President
Mind Bender Escape Rooms, LLC
03.2015 - 09.2023
- Managed accounts payable and receivable processes to ensure timely payments.
- Managed monthly financial closings and ensured accurate reporting.
- Managed vendor relationships to ensure timely processing of invoices and payments.
- Oversaw invoice processing and verification for accuracy and compliance.
- Oversaw reconciliation of accounts to maintain accurate financial records.
- Implemented process improvements to enhance invoice approval workflows.
- Coordinated with vendors to resolve payment discrepancies and inquiries.
- Maintained accurate records of transactions using accounting software systems.
- Directed comprehensive HR, payroll, and tax processes, implementing controls to support accuracy and regulatory adherence
- Developed and executed a comprehensive Employee Handbook, ensuring alignment with organizational standards and regulatory requirements
- Development and execution of HR policies and procedures
- Oversee all on-boarding processes to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations
- Addressing and de-escalating conflicts to achieve positive outcomes
- Consulting on sensitive employee relations matters to ensure fair and consistent decision-making
- Representing company in television and radio appearances
- Coordinating and executing large scale community events
Director of Payroll
Applied Business Solutions, Inc.
10.2021 - 07.2023
- Directed the payroll department for a PEO company serving clients from all 50 states, Guam and Puerto Rico
- Compiled and submitted Certified Government Payroll reports for clients
- Streamlined payroll processes by implementing efficient software solutions, resulting in reduced errors and increased productivity
- Spearheaded the transition to a new payroll system, coordinating efforts across multiple departments for a smooth implementation process
- Managed a team of 14 payroll specialists, providing guidance and support for the effective execution of all payroll functions
- Established clear communication channels between the Payroll department and Human Resources, streamlining procedures related to employee information updates
- Ensured timely tax filings by diligently monitoring deadlines and submitting required documentation in accordance with local, state, and federal law
- Maintained confidentiality of sensitive employee information while managing personnel records securely within HRIS systems
- Enhanced client satisfaction with timely and accurate payroll processing, ensuring adherence to company policies and legal regulations
- Collaborated with Finance teams to ensure accurate financial reporting related to payroll expenses and deductions
- Created comprehensive training materials for staff members, enabling them to effectively navigate the new payroll system and increase their proficiency
- Resolved complex payroll inquiries from staff members in a professional manner while maintaining high levels of customer service quality standards
- Conducted regular performance evaluations for team members, providing constructive feedback and recognizing outstanding achievement
Vice President
Reliable Rail Services, LLC
08.2005 - 08.2017
- Led financial reporting and analysis for multiple departments across the organization.Led financial reporting and analysis for multiple departments across the organization.
- Managed accounts receivable functions, ensuring timely customer invoicing and collections.
- Managed customer invoicing and billing processes efficiently.
- Maintained organized records of transactions for audit compliance and reporting.
- Reviewed and reconciled discrepancies in customer accounts.
- Reviewed and processed customer invoices for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with company policies.
- Maintained accurate records of accounts receivable transactions.
- Coordinated collections efforts with clients and internal teams.
- Created and implemented highly effective and individualized human resource solutions
- Coached and guided staff by providing constructive feedback through assessments, long-term career growth opportunities and ongoing professional development which enhanced productivity, accelerated performance and retained talented personnel
- Liaised with management across multiple departments to devise and update policies based on changing industry and social trends
- Maintained confidentiality of sensitive employee information while managing personnel records securely within HRIS systems
- Resolved personnel issues regarding human resources matters needing clarification, submissions and corrections
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of employment laws to ensure compliance
- Consulting on sensitive employee relations matters to ensure fair and consistent decision-making
- Leading strategic initiatives and team-building programs to strengthen workplace relationships and enhance employee retention
Education
Florida State College At Jacksonville
Jacksonville, FLSkills
- Oracle
- Microsoft Office
- Sage Accounting
- ADP
- Team Leadership
- Decision Making
- Critical Thinking
- Public Speaking
- Account Reconciliations
- Regulatory compliance oversight
- Quality controls
- Compliance documentation
Certification
CNP - Certified Notary Public / Member of M.E.N.S.A.
Timeline
Sr. Payroll Analyst - Contracted
Fanatics, Inc.
08.2025 - Current
Director of Payroll
Applied Business Solutions, Inc.
10.2021 - 07.2023
Vice President
Mind Bender Escape Rooms, LLC
03.2015 - 09.2023
Vice President
Reliable Rail Services, LLC
08.2005 - 08.2017
Florida State College At Jacksonville