Stefan Mikal Gashus
Accountant
Osprey,Florida
Summary
Licensed Canadian Chartered Professional Accountant with over 20 years of leadership experience across private practice, corporate finance, and non-profit sectors. Proven track record in financial operations, strategic planning, SOX compliance, and international business development. Recently returned to the finance and accounting profession with a renewed focus and diverse expertise.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
3
3
Certificates
Work History
Finance Administrator
Sarasota Medical Pregnancy Center
07.2024 - Current
- Ensured timely payment of vendor invoices, maintaining strong relationships with suppliers and partners.
- Supported month-end close processes, ensuring accurate and timely submission of financial statements to stakeholders.
- Maintained strict compliance with regulatory requirements, reducing potential risks associated with non-compliance penalties or fines.
- Prepared and posted receipts and deposits to facilitate standard bookkeeping.
- Monitored and compiled data and reports to present to leadership.
- Updated daily transaction records to assist with payroll and billing administration.
- Reconciled accounts and investigated variances.
- Assisted in the preparation of tax filings, ensuring accurate reporting and adherence to government regulations.
- Completed clerical and data entry tasks to optimize financial procedures.
- Improved internal controls by conducting regular reviews of finance policies and procedures, minimizing the risk of fraud or errors.
- Conducted thorough audits of accounting records, identifying areas for improvement and recommending corrective actions.
- Developed comprehensive financial forecasts, enabling leadership to make informed decisions on resource allocation and investments.
- Contributed to strategic planning initiatives by providing valuable input on cost-saving measures and revenue-generating opportunities.
- Simplified complex financial data into easily digestible reports for senior management review and decisionmaking.
- Produced reports outlining latest financial information such as expenses, income and outstanding balances.
- Boosted department efficiency by implementing automated systems for expense tracking and invoice processing.
- Analyzed variances between actual expenses and budget projections, providing insights for future planning adjustments.
- Enhanced financial reporting accuracy by streamlining data collection and analysis processes.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop annual budgets, aligning financial strategies with company goals.
- Reviewed historical records, current operational data and forecasting information to identify and capitalize on system enhancement opportunities.
- Improved overall financial reporting by streamlining control processes and reporting structures.
- Established internal audit procedures to validate and improve accuracy of financial reporting.
- Created financial dashboards to provide insights into key performance indicators.
- Collaborated with C-level executives and stakeholders to develop long-term financial plans.
- Implemented and regularly reviewed financial controls to generate accurate and reliable financial data.
- Reduced budget discrepancies through meticulous monitoring and reconciliation of financial records.
Owner/Operator
Captain Stefan Yacht Charters
09.2014 - 06.2024
- Managed day-to-day business operations.
- Provided exceptional customer service, addressing issues promptly to ensure customer satisfaction and repeat business.
- Increased customer satisfaction by providing high-quality services and timely communication.
- Managed daily operations for optimal efficiency, streamlining processes to reduce costs.
- Kept all building areas and equipment functional and well-organized to promote business performance.
- Developed and nurtured lasting customer relationships by projecting professional corporate image and responding quickly to logistical and scheduling issues.
- Ensured compliance with relevant regulations, maintaining proper documentation and licensing requirements.
- Improved safety standards by regularly reviewing protocols and implementing necessary updates.
- Demonstrated safe driving by following regulations and safety procedures, resulting in zero accidents.
- Utilized GPS and other navigation tools to plan routes and stay on schedule.
Canadian Chartered Professional Accountant
Owner/Operator
01.2009 - 08.2014
- Stayed abreast with latest updates in accounting standards by attending professional development seminars webinars.
- Enhanced financial accuracy by conducting thorough audits and identifying discrepancies in financial statements.
- Enhanced financial reporting accuracy by implementing streamlined accounting processes and procedures.
- Prepared accurate financial reports for stakeholders, fostering transparency and trust within the organization.
- Developed financial models for various business scenarios, providing valuable insights for executive decision-making purposes.
- Streamlined accounting processes for increased efficiency and reduced errors through the implementation of new software.
- Reviewed fixed asset schedules regularly to ensure proper depreciation calculations were applied as per applicable accounting standards.
- Spearheaded the transition to new accounting systems for clients, ensuring seamless integration without disruption to daily operations.
- Reconciled accounts and reviewed expense data, net worth, and assets.
- Mentored junior staff members on best practices in public accounting, contributing to a knowledgeable and skilled team environment.
- Gathered financial information, prepared documents, and closed books.
- Evaluated internal controls to identify potential weaknesses, implementing improvements to mitigate risks.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge on professional accounting standards to manage financial recordkeeping.
- Advised non-profit organizations on financial management practices, helping them maintain their tax-exempt status while maximizing resources for their mission-driven efforts.
- Managed multiple client projects simultaneously while maintaining strict deadlines and high-quality work standards.
- Suggested ways to improve operational efficiencies.
- Planned and supervised performance audits on various agreements contracted with city governments.
- Implemented internal controls and safeguards for receipt of revenue, costs, budgets and expenditures.
- Audited contracts and agreements with public organizations and city governments.
- Followed all GAAP standards and complied with regulations when setting up accounts, ledgers and reporting systems.
- Prepared working papers, reports and supporting documentation for audit findings.
Sox Compliance Manager
Dollar Financial Group Inc.
01.2007 - 12.2008
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to establish clear compliance guidelines and expectations for all departments.
- Reviewed documents, files, transcripts, and other records to assess compliance and potential risk.
- Managed investigations into potential violations of laws or regulations, ensuring swift resolution and corrective actions when necessary.
- Streamlined compliance processes by implementing efficient monitoring systems and tools.
- Formulated detailed recommendations based on audit findings to support annual planning and definition of goals.
- Conducted thorough internal audits to ensure adherence to regulatory standards and best practices.
- Played instrumental role in company-wide risk assessment efforts, supporting enhancements in business processes and controls.
- Developed and delivered training programs to inform new and current employees about compliance issues.
- Monitored emerging trends in regulatory requirements, anticipating potential impacts on the organization''s operations.
- Strengthened company-wide awareness of relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards through targeted trainings, presentations, and ongoing communication efforts.
- Improved communication channels between departments by establishing regular meetings and reporting structures related to compliance matters.
- Prepared and presented comprehensive reports to upper management and audit team, covering issues and recommendations.
- Developed policies and procedures to manage compliance risks, safeguarding organizational reputation.
- Enhanced operational efficiency with design and implementation of centralized compliance information system.
- Improved regulatory understanding across organization by developing and delivering comprehensive compliance training programs.
CFO and Controller
Contracted
05.2004 - 12.2006
- Led budgeting process, collaborating with department heads to allocate resources strategically and ensure alignment with organizational goals.
- Enhanced cash flow management through the development of robust forecasting models, ensuring optimal liquidity for business operations.
- Ensured compliance with all regulatory requirements by staying current on industry developments and implementing necessary controls within the organization.
- Reduced operational costs by identifying areas for improvement and implementing cost-saving measures across various departments.
- Spearheaded the implementation of a new financial reporting system, resulting in more accurate and timely data for decision-making purposes.
- Maintained P&L and shouldered corporate fiscal responsibility.
- Communicated business performance, forecasts and strategies to investors and shareholders.
- Oversaw accounts payable and receivable to track income and expenditures, drive statutory compliance and provide quantitative financial information.
- Refined internal control procedures, strengthening the overall integrity of financial data captured within the system.
- Oversaw the preparation and submission of all tax filings, mitigating potential risks associated with noncompliance.
Sarbanes-Oxley Compliance Analyst
Contracted by Boeing
05.2004 - 07.2005
- Streamlined SOX documentation processes, ensuring consistency and quality in workpapers across various business units.
- Prepared detailed reports summarizing testing activities and results, highlighting significant findings for management review.
- Developed tailored testing plans for each assigned area, targeting high-risk controls for heightened scrutiny during audits.
- Enhanced financial reporting accuracy through diligent testing of key controls and documenting results for audit purposes.
- Assisted in the development of key performance indicators to measure the impact of SOX compliance efforts on overall business operations.
Canadian Chartered Professional Accountant
Maki Staut Chartered Accountants
02.2002 - 05.2004
- Established strong relationships with clients and stakeholders, ensuring long-term partnerships and repeat business.
- Delivered professional audit and assurance services for a wide range of small to medium size businesses and organizations, including local government.
- Mentored junior staff members for skill development and career progression within the organization.
Canadian CPA, Senior Manager
Deloitte Chartered Accountants
03.1999 - 01.2002
- Provided enterprise risk services to large scale organizations.
- Supported audit and advisory services for organizational internal controls
- Performed reviews of organization's adherence to regulatory guidelines applicable to industry activities and practices.
- Performed audits on various agreements contracted with city governments and other organizations.
- Reviewed regulations and guidelines to confirm business accounting practices adhered to GAAP standards.
- Ensured financial compliance with all relevant regulations by staying current on changes in accounting standards and legislation.
- Improved internal controls by identifying weaknesses and implementing effective risk management strategies.
- Supported senior leadership by providing comprehensive financial analyses for critical business decisions.
VP Finance
Survival Systems International
09.1996 - 02.1999
- Led cross-functional teams for the successful completion of major projects, resulting in increased efficiency and client satisfaction.
- Collaborated with senior management to develop strategic initiatives and long term goals.
- Identified opportunities to improve business process flows and productivity.
- Established a culture of continuous improvement, fostering innovation and driving sustainable growth across the organization.
- Cultivated strong relationships with key stakeholders, including customers, vendors, regulators, and community leaders to promote collaboration and long-term success.
- Demonstrated proficient leadership skills to motivate employees and build competent teams.
- Managed financial planning and budgeting processes, ensuring fiscal responsibility and maximizing return on investments.
- Ensured regulatory compliance at all times by implementing robust internal controls systems coupled with proactive monitoring mechanisms.
- Leveraged technology to automate workflows and streamline processes, resulting in increased productivity and cost savings across the organization.
- Implemented advanced data analytics tools to drive data-driven decision-making across all levels of the organization, leading to better business outcomes.
- Maintained P&L and shouldered corporate fiscal responsibility.
- Monitored key business risks and established risk management procedures.
- Oversaw business-wide changes to modernize procedures and organization.
Corporate Controller
Armoyan Group, Real Estate Developer
01.1994 - 08.1996
- Managed budgets, assets, portfolios, accounts payable, and receivable and general financial reporting procedures.
- Prepared balance sheets, cash flow reports and income statements.
- Completed journal entries, reconciliations, and account analysis to prepare quarterly financial documents and general account management.
- Projected monthly cash expenditures through efficient budgeting and detailed document reviews.
- Completed year-end close processes through effective supervision financial functions and regular treasury transactions.
- Supervised accurate, efficient, and compliant completion of monthly financial reporting packages.
Education
BBA - Finance
Dalhousie University
Halifax, NS, CanadaSkills
Financial forecasting
Decision-making
Data analysis
Critical thinking
Teamwork
Problem-solving
Customer service
Certification
Canadian Chartered Professional Accountant
Timeline
Finance Administrator
Sarasota Medical Pregnancy Center
07.2024 - Current
Owner/Operator
Captain Stefan Yacht Charters
09.2014 - 06.2024
Canadian Chartered Professional Accountant
Owner/Operator
01.2009 - 08.2014
Sox Compliance Manager
Dollar Financial Group Inc.
01.2007 - 12.2008
CFO and Controller
Contracted
05.2004 - 12.2006
Sarbanes-Oxley Compliance Analyst
Contracted by Boeing
05.2004 - 07.2005
Canadian Chartered Professional Accountant
Maki Staut Chartered Accountants
02.2002 - 05.2004
Canadian CPA, Senior Manager
Deloitte Chartered Accountants
03.1999 - 01.2002
VP Finance
Survival Systems International
09.1996 - 02.1999
Corporate Controller
Armoyan Group, Real Estate Developer
01.1994 - 08.1996
BBA - Finance
Dalhousie University