Craig Richards
Mount Gambier,South Australia
Summary
Accomplished Finance Information Systems Manager with a proven track record at K&S Freighters Pty Ltd, enhancing operational efficiency and cybersecurity compliance. Expert in IT problem-solving and project management, I've led significant improvements in system integrations and financial processes, achieving notable cost savings and data integrity across departments. Skilled in SQL and fostering team development, the strategic approach has consistently delivered results beyond expectations. There is also experience as a dedicated and results-driven accounting manager with over a decade of experience in financial management and reporting. Proven track record of streamlining processes, improving efficiency and ensuring compliance with accounting standards. Adept at leading cross-functional teams, implementing strategic initiatives and driving financial success. Possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills with excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
Overview
37
37
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Finance Information Systems Manager
K&S Freighters Pty Ltd
01.2017 - 08.2024
- Prepared and maintained regular system assessment and evaluation documents, informing CIO of discovered faults or discrepancies in operations.
- Collaborated with key personnel to verify data integrity and compliance with related regulatory guidelines and legal requirements.
- Applied cybersecurity best practices to information system standards, directives and guidance for personnel, monitoring compliance across organization.
- Led development of internal education curricula for new employees, designing instructional programs to rapidly onboard information systems users.
- Created various RCTI templates to assist Debtors Personnel in reconciling debtor accounts.
IT Manager
Scott's Transport Industries
04.2013 - 01.2017
- Developed custom IT solutions to address specific business needs, driving operational improvements and cost savings.
- Collaborated with other departments to help meet IT needs and properly integrate and secure systems.
- Reduced downtime by promptly addressing hardware and software issues, ensuring minimal impact on business operations.
- Optimized helpdesk performance through process improvements, enabling faster response times and increased user satisfaction levels.
- Assisted in development of new Financial Information System.
- Assisted in development of Internet Purchase Ordering System.
Accounts Receivable/Debt Recovery Officer
Scott's Transport Industries
04.2010 - 04.2013
- Increased debt recovery rates by implementing efficient collection strategies and maintaining strong communication with clients.
- Analyzed portfolio trends to identify potential risks or areas requiring improvement within the department''s operations, contributing to proactive strategy adjustments.
- Negotiated payment plans with delinquent account holders, facilitating more manageable repayment options for debtors while ensuring timely payments for clients.
- Enhanced company reputation for effective debt recovery through consistent, professional interactions with both debtors and creditors.
Real Estate Account Manager
Malseed's Real Estate
04.2009 - 04.2010
- Increased client satisfaction by building strong relationships and addressing their needs promptly.
- Maintained high client retention rate by providing exceptional customer service and anticipating client needs.
- Managed a diverse portfolio of accounts, ensuring timely communication and effective problem resolution.
- Successfully resolved escalated issues, preventing potential loss of valuable clients while maintaining positive relationships with all parties involved.
Systems Manager
K&S Freighters Pty Ltd
02.2004 - 12.2008
- Mentored junior team members in advanced technical skills and provided guidance on professional development opportunities.
- Conducted thorough evaluations of third-party applications prior to deployment, ensuring compatibility with existing systems architecture and adherence to company security standards.
- Coordinated with external consultants during system migrations or expansions, ensuring seamless integration with existing infrastructure and minimal disruption to endusers.
- Collaborated with business stakeholders to define system requirements for new technology initiatives, translating needs into actionable project plans.
Group Financial Accounting Manager
K&S Freighters Pty Ltd
09.1999 - 01.2004
- Streamlined financial processes by implementing efficient accounting software and systems.
- Used double-entry accounting methods and check backs to manage daily entries to general ledgers.
- Contacted customers to immediately find resolutions for escalated issues.
- Mitigated impacts on financial accounting and business operations by working proactively to identify and resolve strategic concerns.
- Supervised the accounting department.
Financial Accountant
K&S Freighters Pty Ltd
07.1990 - 09.1999
- Assisted in annual audit preparations, ensuring a smooth process with no major discrepancies found.
- Reconciled account information and reported figures in general ledger by comparing to bank account statement each month.
- Tracked business revenue and expenditures and reconciled accounts to maintain high accuracy.
- Identified cost-saving opportunities through thorough budget analysis and expense tracking.
- Assisted in integration of new Financial Systems Program
Debtors Clerk
K&S Freighters Pty Ltd
10.1987 - 06.1990
- Utilized strong multitasking skills to manage multiple priorities and tasks, ensuring timely completion of each assignment.
- Reduced errors in data entry by carefully inputting information into computer systems with attention to detail.
- Improved customer satisfaction by promptly answering inquiries and providing accurate information.
- Managed incoming calls professionally, directing callers to appropriate personnel or taking detailed messages when necessary.
Education
Some College (No Degree) - MEX Report Writing Course
MEX Maintenance Software
Mount Gambier, SACertificate in Project Management
Australian Institute of Management
Melbourne, VIC03.2023
Bachelor of Accountancy - Accounting And Finance
University of South Australia
Adelaide, SA03.1997
Some College (No Degree) - Associate Diploma in Accounting
TAFE SA
Mount Gambier, SASkills
- IT problem-solving, training and development
- IT Change Control
- IT Incident Management
- SQL (Structured Query Language)
- XML (eXtensible Markup Language)
- Project Management
- VBA (Visual Basic for Applications)
- Bank Reconciliation
- Accounts Payable and Receivable
- Audit Coordination
- Cash Flow Management
- Fixed Asset Management
Certification
Certificate in Applied Project Management
Certificate in Business Objects Version 4.1 User Course
Business Studies Section Award
Certificate in Advanced Microsoft Excel 5.0
Timeline
Finance Information Systems Manager
K&S Freighters Pty Ltd
01.2017 - 08.2024
IT Manager
Scott's Transport Industries
04.2013 - 01.2017
Accounts Receivable/Debt Recovery Officer
Scott's Transport Industries
04.2010 - 04.2013
Real Estate Account Manager
Malseed's Real Estate
04.2009 - 04.2010
Systems Manager
K&S Freighters Pty Ltd
02.2004 - 12.2008
Group Financial Accounting Manager
K&S Freighters Pty Ltd
09.1999 - 01.2004
Financial Accountant
K&S Freighters Pty Ltd
07.1990 - 09.1999
Debtors Clerk
K&S Freighters Pty Ltd
10.1987 - 06.1990
Some College (No Degree) - MEX Report Writing Course
MEX Maintenance Software
Certificate in Project Management
Australian Institute of Management
Bachelor of Accountancy - Accounting And Finance
University of South Australia
Some College (No Degree) - Associate Diploma in Accounting
TAFE SA
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