I work with BlackLine customers to provide a solution tailored to their environment and needs using the BlackLine products to improve and enhance the financial close cycle. I have played a key role in designing implementation processes and best practices for the application so that the implementation can be as fast and efficient as possible. I have extensive experience in the financial close cycle having been an auditor, a financial professional and also a former BlackLine user. I have leveraged that experience to provide the best possible service to customers in the implementation area. Inside BlackLine, I am passionate about knowledge sharing and ensuring that internal knowledge is both collaborative and available across departments. I am considered a subject matter expert in the core products (Account Reconciliations, Tasks, Variance, CIM) with a specialization in the advanced products of Matching and Journals.

Responsible for the overall accounting and consolidation practices of the Associated Press worldwide which consists of over 15 companies and 100 bureaus around the world. Worked closely with functional accounting areas (general accounting, accounts receivable, payables, international and treasury) to ensure that transactions recorded properly reflected the operations of the consolidated company in accordance with US GAAP. Responsible for the preparation of the annual consolidated and audited financial statements presented in the annual report. Served as the primary liaison to the external auditors. Controlled the general ledger and consolidation system, ensuring that accounts were opened, authorized, closed and appropriately structured for proper and consistent recording and reporting of operations.• Managed the monthly closing process reducing the time to close from 20 days to 7 days• Introduced and implemented a software solution to streamline and enhance the quality of required account reconciliations• Conducted cross-functional roundtable work sessions to address accounting process rework in the areas of payroll, treasury and intercompany sales• Played a key role in the design and implementation of the company’s conversion to SAP ERP solution.

Responsible for all activities related to the Corporate balance sheet closing for the North American region (consisting of 34 companies). Responsible for balance sheet account analysis and reporting ensuring proper recording and consistent classification of transactions and balances for the group. Administered the common and proprietary general ledger used by 17 of 34 companies in the group, ensuring that accounts were opened, authorized, closed and properly structured for proper and consistent recording and reporting of operations. Advised and trained new users on the general ledger and Hyperion systems.• Supervised a staff of 4 at Corporate and coordinated with finance personnel across North America for the consolidated closing process• Conducted training sessions for McCann companies in Asia on consolidation software (Hyperion)

Responsible for operational and financial analysis related to the company’s internet retailing joint venture in its start-up phase. Applied knowledge of accounting, operational systems and retail models to the evaluation and implementation of potential deals and solutions for the company’s overall internet concern. Built and evaluated financial models for new business initiatives.

Responsible for all facets of financial analysis related to the company’s domestic Spanish language and international electronic retailing ventures. Developed and executed valuation models for scenarios with these evolutions. Prepared 5-year strategic plans for the international operations group. Responded to executive management’s requests for adhoc analysis and reporting. Coordinated and executed the company’s quarterly and annual SEC reporting. Coordinated the company’s annual audit process and the transition between different audit firms. • Obtained extensive knowledge and work experience in acquisitions and consolidation