Shanka Wickramasinghe

As the finance manager reporting to the CFO, I contributed to financial operations, budgeting, financial reporting, FP&A, audits and controls. I implemented a new budgeting and forecasting tool, VENA, enhancing the airport's response to financial queries during COVID-19. I learned the VENA system tool and developed 20 essential templates, significantly enhancing the agility of flight schedule adjustments and refining revenue, expense, and cash flow forecasting. This initiative streamlined period-end reporting and facilitated more efficient Management Discussion & Analysis (MD&A) preparation. My expertise in developing intricate financial models and conducting 'What-If' scenario analyses has been instrumental in offering valuable insights for strategic decision-making. Additionally, my role was pivotal in assessing financial performance and debt restructuring opportunities, as well as in devising a robust financial risk management policy.

I provided oversight of financial and operational management, ensuring adherence to financial compliance, governance, and the meticulous preparation of financial statements, management accounts, and budgeting for key departments. My role encompasses enhancing financial systems and processes, coordinating audit services, and driving financial reporting, while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and shared learning in financial reporting practices, through bespoke training for finance administrators and stakeholders, to uphold the integrity and purpose of our financial operations. I also liaised with engineering firms, government entities, and internal stakeholders on five Capital Projects worth over $35 million, ensuring effective capital management and compliance.

I was responsible for preparing the period-end consolidated financial statement package (IFRS), as well as ad-hoc reporting to various stakeholders and the quarterly internal reporting package on non-GAAP measures. I managed consolidated revenues of approximately $250 million, with a budget of approximately $60 million. I provided ongoing, timely, and accurate analysis of monthly financial results to support the month-end and quarter-end close processes. I also streamlined internal processes and implemented and refined working papers in MS Excel, resulting in increased efficiency and accuracy.

I played a key role in supporting the sale of assets and data migration projects during Desjardins Financial Group's acquisition of Bank West. This included overseeing data integration, conversion, and the creation of management reports using a large volume of data. I conducted variance analysis and compared month-to-month interest revenues and expenses to ensure accuracy. I also managed complex areas of reporting, including the preparation of OSFI (The Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions) reports. Through my contributions, I ensured the accuracy and completeness of financial reporting during a period of significant change for the organization.

I provided support in data conversion and mapping in a contract role, ensuring the completeness and accuracy of financial data for a valued client. Through my contributions, I helped to streamline financial processes and improve the overall efficiency of the organization's financial operations.

I quickly made an impact after joining as an accountant and was promoted to team lead after six months. In my role, I successfully managed the expenditure and tax reporting processes for multiple Fortune 500 companies during their relocation. I provided leadership by coaching and motivating staff to meet or exceed deliverables and consistently achieved deadlines. I also resolved complex transactions by interpreting guidelines, policies, and processes, ensuring compliance and efficient financial operations. Additionally, I led a team of two expense processors and three client accountants, providing job training and mentorship to ensure their continued growth and success.