Rana Zakhour

 Provided the CEO and Board of Directors with financial forecasts and reports to enhance Group performance and improve commercial outcomes.  Owned & managed the budget process and ensured proper coordination with CEO &Group companies throughout.  Lead finance transformation and positioned finance as a strategic function that drives business results and plays a key role in Mergers and Acquisitions of the Group.  Conducted risk assessment and mitigation and maintained internal controls and financial reporting that are in line with best practice.  Managed negotiations with banks and ensured funding for new investments at minimal charges and interest rates.  Played an active role in the selection and implementation of digital technology including Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0, Microsoft Dynamics AX, BI system based on Big Data warehousing, and Voucher Management System.

 Decreased receivable write-offs DSO from 48 to 24 days by developing credit policies, applying aggressive collection strategies and establishing a constructive dialogue with delinquent accounts.  Transformed an operational finance function to a strategic one that supports decision making through designing and implementing streamlined Finance Policies and Procedures that meet best practice and enhance efficiency.  Empowered and supported growth of Finance, Accounting, and Human Resources staff.

 Prepared and reviewed monthly budget reports, income statement variances and KPI reports.  Developed and implemented procedures to ensure integrity of accounting information.  Ensured accurate and timely financial reporting.

 Prepared yearly budget, monthly financial reports, payroll and forecasts.  Prepared all tax returns (VAT, NSSF, tax on salaries, Income tax).  Managed the finance and accounting systems.  Implemented a cost cutting strategy that turned the company’s bottom line to a profitable one.  Lead the selection & implementation of the new ERP system (Brains) leading to data coherence & efficient reporting.