Ann Gerard

In charge of comprehensive financial operations, ensuring effective budgeting, forecasting, and compliance with financial regulations. Managed agencies’ P&Ls, balance sheets, optimizing cash management practices. Key player for the commercial team during client contract negotiations, payment terms, invoicing process and specific media buying regulatory requirements.

Analyzed key performance indicators; Generated annual budget, quarterly forecast, and monthly consolidated financial statements for Group; Ensured agencies comply with Group policies and deadlines. On boarded the finance team of the newly acquired Epsilon, ensuring the understanding of the Group’s financial reporting requirements; Identified and addressed revenue accounting issues, ensuring compliance.

Key responsibilities included: Financial planning, analysis and reporting for Publicis One management and Publicis Groupe; Review cost structures and identify cost efficiencies, Cash management; Business and client development Oversaw the IFRS15 implementation guidance and communications and established the KPIs to monitor net revenue growth.

Controlled all aspects of financial planning and reporting for the regions. Provided support to the countries and was a business partner providing advice and assistance to local CFOs and Controllers. Key responsibilities included: Financial reporting and analysis; Cash management, Business and client development, Financial monitoring controls.

* Key player within agency turnaround increasing revenue growth. * Implemented new process to increase reliability of revenue projects via defined percentage of profitability rates and focus on project time lines. * Established timesheet reprint process for operation improving timesheet quality to produce more reliable client and non-client analysis. * Received first all successful review by Financial Monitoring Controllers of Brand. * Collaborated with US Brand to launch capacity planning process for operations to assist in budget projects. Obtained visibility of staffing needs and forecasted direct contribution margin by project/client.

Ensured accurate and timely reporting from Brands and analyzed key performance indicators including revenue growth, operating margin, trade working capital, operating costs. Led financial integration of newly acquired Brand, Digitas ($600M in revenue) and trained representatives regarding financial reporting requirements and HFM reporting tool.

Served as key communicator between HQ Operations Departments and subsidiaries within Southern Europe including Spain, Portugal, and Italy. Provided guidance and support to subsidiaries for reporting and budget needs, quarterly/annual end closing, internal controls, and tender offers.

Key player in numerous due diligence examinations and acquisitions consisting of balance sheet, income statement, and preparation of reports.

Conducted annual financial audits for various companies including public, private, and not-for-profit organizations. Reviewed quarterly and year end filings required by SEC for registered companies. Examined internal controls to improve accounting operations.