Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Timeline
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SUSAN PIPPENGER

AURORA,IL

Summary

A seasoned financial executive, adept in strategic planning and financial process improvement, I spearheaded revenue growth and operational efficiencies at Optimum Staffing Inc. My leadership, characterized by meticulous regulatory compliance and effective audit coordination, has consistently enhanced profitability and team skill development, showcasing a blend of analytical prowess and collaborative spirit.

Overview

39
39
years of professional experience

Work History

Co-Managing Partner

SASS LLC
07.2012 - Current
  • Developed and manage the financial, accounting and banking sides of all five companies owned and operated under SASS LLC.
  • Negotiated favorable terms with bank providing our line of credit and am responsible for all loan and banking transactions and compliance with loan covenants.
  • Collaborated with legal, accounting and other professional teams to review and maintain compliance with regulations.
  • Oversaw financial management of the firm, including budgeting, forecasting, and analysis, ensuring fiscal responsibility and profitability.
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.

Cheif Fianancial Officer

Optimum Staffing Inc
05.2014 - 07.2022
  • Drove revenue growth by developing pricing strategies that maximized both sales volume and profitability.
  • Coordinated cross-functional teams to address complex issues, leading to more efficient problem-solving processes.
  • Negotiated favorable credit terms with banks for increased borrowing capacity and reduced interest expenses.
  • Successfully obtained over $4 million of PPP money during 2020 that was completely forgiven providing much needed cash flow.
  • Responsible for a complete redesign of the Accounting and Payroll Departments operational procedures including cross training and building a superior system that had more dual control and proper tax filings.
  • Managed relationships with external auditors, ensuring a smooth and efficient annual audit process with minimal findings or issues identified.


  • Conducted thorough investigations into complex accounting issues, leading to successful prosecution of an employee theft that had been going on for years.
  • Reduced operational costs by identifying areas for improvement and implementing cost-saving measures across various departments.
  • Maintained P&L and shouldered corporate fiscal responsibility.
  • Mentored staff members, helping them develop their skills and advance in their careers.
  • Implemented process improvements that streamlined workflows, reducing redundancies and increasing operational efficiency.
  • Acted as interim CEO for over a year,



Senior Vice President and Chief Credit Officer

Downers Grove National Bank
11.1985 - 12.2011
  • Managed the entire Loan division while maintaining the largest commercial loan portfolio than any other lender.
  • Directly responsible for interactions with IRS audits, OCC exams, FDIC audits, external audits (CPA firm), internal audits, loan review & regulatory compliance.
  • Analyzed and considered all credits including large and complex credits before presentation to the Board of Directors,
  • Hired and managed employees from receptionist to Vice Presidents to maximize productivity while training staff on best practices and protocols.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Accounting

Benedictine University
Lisle, IL

Skills

  • Revenue Growth
  • Strategic Planning
  • Operations Management
  • Financial reporting understanding
  • Cash Flow Management
  • Financial Process Improvement
  • Financial Strategy Development
  • Regulatory Compliance Knowledge
  • Financial Reporting
  • Operational decision making
  • Audit Coordination
  • Financial Administration

Affiliations

  • Board of Directors Stonebridge Country Club 2008-2014

Timeline

Cheif Fianancial Officer

Optimum Staffing Inc
05.2014 - 07.2022

Co-Managing Partner

SASS LLC
07.2012 - Current

Senior Vice President and Chief Credit Officer

Downers Grove National Bank
11.1985 - 12.2011

Bachelor of Arts - Accounting

Benedictine University
SUSAN PIPPENGER