Debra Howard

Phoenix

Summary

Detail-oriented administrative professional with over 20 years of experience in managing accounts receivable, accounts payable, financial reporting, payroll, and customer service. Former business owner with over 15 years of experience successfully operating and managing multiple businesses developing strong financial management. Expert in maintaining accurate financial records, reconciling accounts, and resolving billing discrepancies. Demonstrated capacity to streamline office operations and support diverse teams in fast-paced environment. Self motivated with a fully equipped home office and the ability to work independently while meeting deadlines and maintaining confidentiality.

Overview

years of professional experience

Work History

Accounting /Operations Manager

Hockey Club Des Moines

Des Moines, IA

03.2020 - 06.2025

Managed accounts receivable and accounts payable functions, ensuring accurate financial records and timely payments.
Prepared invoices, tracked payments and followed up on outstanding balances.
Resolved customer billing inquiries and payment discrepancies efficiently.
Maintained confidential financial and employee records.
Led month-end close processes, ensuring timely and accurate financial reporting.
Streamlined accounts payable processes, enhancing efficiency and reducing processing times.
Assisted with financial reporting, budget tracking and contract administration.
Utilized Microsoft Excel and software to manage financial data and reporting.
Worked independently to meet deadlines while supporting daily business operations.
Mentored junior accounting staff, fostering professional development and enhancing team performance.

Accounting Specialist/Operations Manager

Synlawn Artificial Turf

Lees Summit, Mo

10.2015 - 02.2020

Oversaw daily financial operations, including invoicing, accounts receivable, accounts payable and payroll.
Processed payment and documents such as invoices, employee reimbursements and statements.
Coordinated with customers and vendors regarding account balances and payment schedules.
Managed accounts payable and receivable processes to ensure timely financial operations.
Implemented process improvements for invoice processing, reducing turnaround time significantly.
Reconciled bank statements and financial discrepancies to maintain accuracy in records.
Assisted in preparing monthly financial reports, enhancing overall reporting efficiency.
Input financial data and produced reports using Quickbooks
Established effective communication with vendors and customers to resolve outstanding issues in a timely manner.
Prepared contracts for customers, while overseeing the project management.

Director of Finance and Human Resources

Missouri Mavericks Professional Hockey Team

Kansas City, MO

08.2010 - 10.2015

Collaborated with executive leadership to align financial goals with overall business objectives for sustained profitability.
Successfully managed multiple audits, ensuring accurate financial information was presented to external parties without discrepancies or delays.
Managed company cash flow by monitoring daily transactions and optimizing working capital.
Enhanced stakeholder communication by producing clear, concise, and timely financial reports that supported informed decision making.
Prepared monthly reconciliation of bank accounts and took corrective actions on deviations.
Coordinated with department heads to create realistic budgets that aligned with strategic goals, enhancing departmental accountability.
Managed accounts receivable , accounts payable and payroll.
Processed invoices and monitored incoming payments, along with payment processing for accounts payable.
Responded to customer and vendor inquiries regarding billing and payments.
Checked payroll, vendor payments, commissions and other accounting disbursements for accuracy and compliance.
Performed banking, business administration and financial tasks as needed.
Utilized accounting software , Quickbooks and Microsoft Excel to support financial operations

Education

Associate of Science - Business

Modesto Junior College

Modesto, CA

Skills

Accounts receivable
Invoice processing
Payment reconciliation
Financial maintenance
Financial Record Maintenance
Financial Analysis

Payroll Administration
Microsoft Office and QuickBooks
Budget Management
Customer Service and Client Relations

Timeline