Ilona Skaurone

Responsible for managing the full-cycle accounts payable process to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant payments to suppliers in a high-volume, fast-paced finance environment. Key responsibilities and achievements: - Process and validate large volumes of invoices, ensuring timely payments and accurate ledger records - Reconcile supplier statements and company bank accounts, investigating and resolving discrepancies - Collaborate with vendors to resolve queries, strengthen professional relationships, and improve communication - Streamline and improve invoice workflows to reduce errors and increase operational efficiency - Review and audit accounts payable transactions for compliance with company policies and financial regulations - Generate reports on payables activity, cash flow trends, and spending patterns for management insight - Work closely with internal departments to align AP activities with budgeting and forecasting processes - Promoted a supportive and solution-focused team environment, contributing to shared financial goals - Received additional training in Accounts Receivable: assisted with reviewing customer accounts, reconciling balances, and processing credit notes to support the wider finance function

Led the purchase ledger function and supervised a team of 3 members, ensuring accurate and timely processing of financial transactions. Key responsibilities included: - Registered, posted, and investigated invoices to maintain precise financial records - Reconciled supplier statements to verify account balances and resolve discrepancies - Addressed final demands promptly to manage overdue payments and prevent disputes - Processed payment runs for both UK and international suppliers in multiple currencies efficiently - Managed bank uploads for payment runs, ensuring accurate and timely electronic fund transfers - Handled manual payments and journal postings to maintain comprehensive financial records - Created and maintained supplier records, ensuring data accuracy and up-to-date information - Supervised and supported a team of 3, fostering collaboration and meeting departmental objectives This role demanded strong leadership, meticulous attention to detail, and effective communication to maintain smooth financial operations.

Managed accounts payable processes and supplier relationships to ensure smooth financial operations and accurate accounting. Key responsibilities included: - Ensured timely payment of invoices in compliance with agreed payment terms and schedules - Monitored and resolved overdue invoices through proactive communication with suppliers - Handled supplier queries and resolved issues via phone and email, maintaining strong vendor relationships - Processed and organized incoming mail, both electronic and physical, ensuring efficient document flow - Created and maintained vendor accounts, keeping records accurate and up to date

Oversaw daily store operations with a focus on cash management, team supervision, inventory control, and customer service excellence. Stepped into the Store Manager role as needed, ensuring business continuity and smooth performance. - Managed financial documentation, including daily cash handling, banking procedures, and reconciliation of cash books and cleaning checklists - Accurately handled high-volume cash transactions, ensuring security and preventing discrepancies - Supervised a team of up to 6 employees, offering daily support, training, and performance oversight - Maintained inventory levels and streamlined food ordering processes to support efficient operations - Addressed and resolved customer complaints with a calm, solution-focused approach - Ensured facility and equipment maintenance standards were upheld to guarantee a clean, safe environment - Acted as Store Manager during absences, leading all aspects of store performance and staff management